Nation celebrates the 78th Independence Day today. Prime Minister Narendra Modi led the country in paying tributes to martyrs and freedom fighters, by hoisting the National Flag from the ramparts of the iconic Red Fort. He inspected the Guard of Honour.
Addressing the nation from the ramparts of Red Fort this morning, the Prime Minister said, the nation is indebted to every martyr and freedom fighter, as they gave everyone the privilege of breathing freely.
He highlighted that people from every section of society, including youth, farmers, women and tribal people kept fighting against slavery.
He noted that today is an occasion to also salute the great personalities who are dedicated to protecting the nation, building it with full commitment, and taking the country to new heights.
The Prime Minister exuded belief that if the 140 crore people of the country resolve and move together in one direction, India will become ‘Viksit Bharat’ by 2047 by overcoming all obstacles.
PM Modi said, his government has brought many reforms, with the policy of Nation First.
He said, he was pleased to note that crores of citizens have given countless suggestions for ‘Viksit Bharat-2047’.
Expressing concern over the recent surge in natural disasters, the Prime Minister said his sympathies are with those affected.
He assured them that the nation is by their side through these challenging times.
Prime Minister Modi said, his government is committed to reforms not for praise or compulsions, but for strengthening the country.
He pointed out that there is an advanced system in place in every sector, whether it is tourism, MSMEs, education, health, transport, agriculture or any other sector.
He added that India wants to lead by bringing the world’s best practices forward.
The Prime Minister also highlighted that many reforms have been done in this sector.
He noted that many startups are entering this sector.
He added that Space sector is an essential element towards making India a powerful nation. He said the government is focusing and giving strength to this sector with long-term planning.
PM Modi emphasized that India, which was once a victim of terrorist attacks has now become bold and strong.
Prime Minister termed it as unfortunate that after independence, people had to keep extending hands for help before the government.
He said his government has changed this model of governance and today, the government itself goes to the beneficiary.
He pointed out that today, the government itself provides gas stoves, water, electricity and financial help to the people.
PM Modi stated that in the last 10 years, 10 crore women joined women’s self-help groups and became financially independent.
He said that when women become financially independent, they become part of the decision-making system in a household leading to social change.
He stated that till now, 9 lakh crore rupees have been given to self-help groups in the country. He said his government has worked on women-led development.
Prime Minister also expressed concern at the rising cases of violence and crimes against women.
He said the perpetrators should be punished and brought to book at the earliest.
He observed that incidents of rape are highlighted but the punishment meted out to the perpetrators is not highlighted in the media.
He opined that punishments for criminals must be extensively publicized so that people become scared of committing such heinous crimes.
On Bangladesh, the Prime Minister said that as a neighbouring country, India is concerned regarding the situation in Bangladesh. He hoped that normalcy is restored at the earliest.
He said Indian people are concerned about the safety of Hindus and minorities in the neighbouring country. He added that India always wants neighbouring countries to walk the path of prosperity and peace.
The Prime Minister stressed that the country should have a secular Civil Code instead of a Communal Civil Code.
He also urged political parties to come forward for One Nation, One Election to realize the dream of a developed India.
Mr Modi said his government reformed criminal laws. He said at its core, the new Criminal laws are aimed at giving justice to the citizens, not punishment.
Prime Minister urged the government and public representatives at every level to take steps for ease of living in mission mode.
He said his government has also worked in the direction of reducing government interference in people’s lives.
He said more than 1,500 laws were abolished so that people do not have to get trapped in the maze of laws.
Prime Minister stated that two key developments have accelerated the country’s progress – the creation of modern infrastructure and ‘ease of living’.
He said significant strides have been made in upgrading infrastructure and making life easier for everyone.
On empowerment of women, PM Modi said paid maternity leaves have been extended from 12 weeks to 26 weeks for working women.
He added that specially-abled people are living with dignity under Sugamya Bharat Abhiyan.
He said that new decisions are also being taken to make the lives of transgender respectful.
On defence, Mr Modi said the nation is becoming self-reliant in the defence sector and has its own identity today in defence equipment manufacturing. He emphasized that India is emerging as a defence manufacturing hub.
Prime Minister said many big companies and investors of the world want to invest in India today. He termed it as a golden opportunity. He urged the State governments to make clear policies to attract investors and give assurance of good governance and law and order situation. He said there should be competition between states to attract maximum investors and their policies should be changed and moulded as per global requirements.
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