I-Day Speech: PM Modi outlines roadmap for strong, prosperous India

New Delhi: Highlighting achievements of his government in areas such as fintech, green energy and infrastructure development, Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his Independence Day speech on Thursday outlined a roadmap for a strong and prosperous India.

"There was a time when people were committed to sacrifice their lives for India's independence. However, now is the time to dedicate ourselves to building a strong and prosperous India. Our commitment to living for our country can make it thrive," he said.

In his address to the nation, the 11th consecutive time and first of his third term from the historic Red Fort, PM Modi said that India has taken monumental steps towards modernizing infrastructure and ensuring ease of living.

"In the past decade, the government has worked tirelessly towards expanding India's infrastructure and connecting even far-flung areas of the country, ensuring comprehensive development for all," he said.

The PM said that his government has implemented reforms on the ground and it remains committed to it.

"Our reform process is not under any compulsion. Our reforms are intended to strengthen the country," Modi said.

He also highlighted the successful rollout of central schemes such as “Har Ghar Nal Se Jal” which has benefitted cores of people.

The Prime Minister said that the 'Vocal for Local' slogan given by the government has become the new 'mantra' for the economy and people are taking pride in 'One District One Product'.

Highlighting the success in renewable energy sector, PM Modi said that India has done much more than what the G20 countries have done in the field and the country is progressing towards becoming self-reliant in the energy sector.

Modi also underlined the success in the fintech sector and said that the world is keen to learn from India's experience.

He said that several reforms have been made to strengthen the banking sector.

"Consequently, our banks have established their presence among the strongest banks in the world. When the bank services are strong the strength of the formal economy also increases. Banks play an important role in fulfilling the aspirations of the middle class families of the country," he said.

PM Modi said that India's contribution to global growth has increased significantly, its exports are rising exponentially, and its forex reserves are all-time high.

"This makes me believe that India is ushering in the right direction, with the right speed. There's great potential in India's dreams. Yet, we must always value sympathy and, empathy and carry it in our hearts along the way," he said.

PM Modi also highlighted the reforms undertaken in the space sector.

"Today, several startups are entering this sector. Space sector, which is becoming vibrant, is a crucial step towards making India a powerful nation. We are strengthening this sector with a long-term vision," he said.

He said that India has started working on its Semiconductor Mission and moving ahead rapidly with 5G, and towards further boosting its production capacity.

"And, I assure you we won't stop here. We are working on mission mode for the development of 6G networks," he said.

PM Modi noted that the provisions made in Budget 2024 aim to ensure a comprehensive development of youth and, give impetus to the Skill India Programme.

"India dreams of making its mark in the global job market," he said.