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In his 98 minute long speech delivered from the ramparts of Red Fort on India’s 78th Independence Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi outlined the nation’s economic trajectory and aspirations. From making India world’s third-largest economy, to developing the space sector, here are 20 key things he said read more
 "From 'Viksit Bharat' to global investment, 20 things PM Modi said about Indian economy in I-Day speech")
Prime Minister Narendra Modi greets the gathering at the Red Fort after hoisting the national flag on 78th Independence Day. Screengrab via @narendramodi_in
On India’s 78th Independence Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered his longest-ever speech from the iconic Red Fort, where he outlined the nation’s economic trajectory and aspirations.
This article highlights 20 key points from his address that provide a roadmap for India’s economic future.
1. Viksit Bharat 2047
The ‘Viksit Bharat’ initiative aims to make India a developed nation by 2047, with public input playing a crucial role in shaping this vision, particularly in areas like manufacturing and traditional medicine.
2. World’s third-largest economy
Modi set an ambitious goal for India to become the world’s third-largest economy, urging citizens and policymakers alike to work towards achieving this milestone without delay.
3. Banking sector reforms
Modi lauded the reforms in India’s banking sector, noting that Indian banks are now counted among the strongest in the world, a significant turnaround from their previously troubled state.
4. Infrastructure development
The Prime Minister reviewed the tremendous progress in infrastructure over the past ten years, stressing that this development has significantly improved the ease of living for all Indians. “We have expanded the health infrastructure by sanctioning an increase in the number of hospitals […] today the work of construction of about 75 thousand Amrit Sarovar is going on,” he said.
PM Modi added, “Concrete roads are being built in every village. Electric buses and metro rails are also being built in the country today.“
5. Jal Jeevan mission: 15 crore beneficiaries
The Jal Jeevan Mission, which aims to provide potable water to every household, has already benefited 15 crore families, demonstrating the government’s commitment to improving basic amenities.
6. Empowering women economically
Modi celebrated the financial independence of 10 crore women, a significant achievement in India’s socio-economic landscape.
7. ‘Vocal for Local’: Mantra of India’s economy
Modi reiterated the importance of the ‘Vocal for Local’ campaign, urging citizens to support domestic products, which has become a cornerstone of India’s economic strategy, known as Arthatantra.
8. ‘One district, one product’ initiative
To boost exports and economic diversity, Modi promoted the ‘One District, One Product’ initiative, which encourages districts to specialise in unique products, fostering pride and economic self-reliance.
9. Attracting global investment, FDI
Modi highlighted the growing interest of international companies in investing in India. He urged state governments to create investor-friendly policies and to compete in attracting global investments.
10. ‘Design in India, design for the world’
The Prime Minister stressed the need for India to focus on designing products not just for domestic consumption but for global markets, highlighting the importance of innovation and global competitiveness in India’s economic strategy.
11. Towards energy self-reliance
The PM emphasised India’s commitment to becoming self-reliant in the energy sector, noting that the country is making significant strides in renewable energy compared to other G20 nations.
12. On corruption
PM Modi emphasised the detrimental effects of corruption, labeling it as a societal issue that undermines public trust and hinders national progress. He vowed to intensify efforts to eradicate this “termite” that has troubled every citizen.
13. India and the global gaming industry
Modi identified the burgeoning global gaming industry as a sector where Indian professionals should lead, not only in gameplay but also in developing games that reflect India’s rich cultural heritage.
14. Comprehensive skill development
Aligning with the Industry 4.0 revolution, the PM outlined the government’s focus on skill development across all sectors. This includes initiatives from the 2024 Budget aimed at making India the global skill capital, with a particular emphasis on youth training.
The ‘Skill India’ initiative was highlighted as a key driver of economic growth, providing new momentum by equipping the workforce with the necessary skills to thrive in a rapidly changing job market.
15. India as a defence manufacturing hub
India is emerging as a global hub for defence manufacturing, with the Prime Minister proudly stating that the country now has its own identity in this crucial sector.
16. New modern systems
In sectors like tourism, MSMEs, and agriculture, Modi described how modern systems and best practices are being integrated, with technology playing a key role in this transformation.
17. Green growth and green jobs
The focus on green growth was highlighted as a dual strategy to create employment opportunities while contributing to environmental protection, aligning with global climate change goals.
18. India’s global image transformation
The PM reflected on how the global perception of India has transformed, with Indian-origin CEOs leading major global companies, symbolising India’s growing influence.
19. Opportunities in the space sector
Following the success of Chandrayaan, Modi emphasized the vast opportunities in the space sector, particularly for startups, and announced dedicated funds for research in this high-potential area.
Modi highlighted how India’s educational institutions are nurturing talent in the space sector, with the government earmarking funds for further research and development in this critical field.
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English (US) ·