Independence Day 2024: Key takeaways from PM Modi’s speech at Red Fort

On Thursday (August 15), Prime Minister Narendra Modi advocated for significant reforms in the agricultural sector during the 78th Independence Day celebrations. In his traditional address from the Red Fort, he highlighted the government’s commitment to improving the lives of farmers across the country. The Prime Minister praised farmers for their adoption of organic farming practices and expressed confidence that they have the potential to position India as the global leader in organic food production, aligning with the nation’s vision of becoming a Viksit Bharat.

Viksit Bharat by 2047: The Prime Minister concluded by urging citizens to work together with strength and resolve to achieve the goals of ‘Viksit Bharat’ (Developed India) by 2047. He emphasised that the nation’s progress is driven by robust leadership, public participation, and a commitment to reforms. He said, “We have brought big reforms on ground. For the poor, middle class, deprived… for the aspirations of our youth, we choose the path to bring reforms in their lives. We should not let this opportunity go. We will then achieve the goals of Viksit Bharat by 2047.”

Addressing Crime Against Women: Prime Minister Modi expressed profound pain over crime against women against the backdrop of the recent rape and murder of a female doctor in Kolkata. He emphasised the necessity of instilling fear of punishment in those with ‘monstrous tendencies’ and stressed the need for swift investigations and severe punishments to restore societal confidence. He said, “I would like to express my pain once again, from the Red Fort today. As a society, we will have to think seriously about the atrocities against women that are happening. I can feel this outrage.”

Uniform Civil Code Advocacy: Modi advocated for the implementation of a Uniform Civil Code (UCC), criticising the existing civil code as “communal” and promoting a secular alternative. He underscored the urgency of transitioning to a secular civil code to prevent religious discrimination. He said, “The Civil Code that we are living with is actually a Communal Civil Code in a way. It is the need of the hour that there be a Secular Civil Code in the country…only then would we be free of the discrimination on the basis of religion.”

Bangladesh’s Situation: Modi expressed confidence that the situation in violence-hit Bangladesh would normalise soon. He conveyed India’s concern for the safety of Hindus and minorities in Bangladesh and reiterated India’s commitment to peace and prosperity in the region. “As a neighbouring country, I can understand the concern regarding whatever has happened in Bangladesh. I hope that the situation there gets normal at the earliest. The concerns of 140 crore countrymen to ensure the safety of Hindus and minorities there,” he said.

Commitment to Reforms: Modi assured that the NDA government’s commitment to reforms is aimed at strengthening the country and not for temporary gains or political reasons. He highlighted that reforms are a blueprint for growth, focusing on sectors like banking, which now features some of the world’s strongest banks.

Space Sector Developments: Modi highlighted the advancements in India’s space sector, including the successful Chandrayaan-3 mission and the upcoming Gaganyaan human spaceflight program. He emphasised the role of private sector involvement and the goal of establishing India as a leader in space exploration. He added, “The space sector is becoming vibrant and is essential for making India a powerful nation. Today, private satellites and private rockets are being launched. We are focusing on giving strength to this sector.”

Medical Education Expansion: The Prime Minister announced the creation of 75,000 new seats in medical colleges over the next five years. This initiative aims to prevent students from needing to study abroad and to develop India’s education system. He added, “In the next five years, 75,000 new seats will be created in medical colleges in India. We want a developed education system so that nobody has to go overseas spending crores of rupees.”

Economic and Infrastructure Reforms: Modi spoke about ongoing efforts to modernise various sectors including tourism, MSMEs, health, and agriculture. He noted that reforms are designed to enhance infrastructure and ease of living, driving India’s progress towards becoming a developed nation.

Tribute to Freedom Fighters: Reflecting on the struggle for independence, Modi paid tribute to the freedom fighters who sacrificed their lives for the nation. He expressed deep gratitude for their contributions and reaffirmed the nation’s commitment to honoring their legacy. “This is the day to salute those who have fought and sacrificed their lives for the nation’s independence. We bow down to every brave heart and pay our respects with reverence,” he added.

Organic Farming and Agriculture: Modi encouraged organic farming as a means to improve the lives of farmers and enhance India’s position in the global food market. He underscored the importance of making India a leading producer of organic food.

Strict Punishments for Corrupt: During his address, PM Modi also emphasised the necessity for stringent punishments to ensure justice and uphold the rule of law. He underscored that effective deterrence against criminal activities requires rigorous enforcement and accountability, calling for robust measures to address and prevent crime in the country. He added, “When a person of such monstrous tendency is punished, it is not seen in news but restricted to a corner. Extensive discussion on those receiving punishment is needed so that those committing this sin understand that this leads to hanging.”