Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered a 98-minute address from the Red Fort on India’s 78th Independence Day, outlining his vision for a ‘Viksit Bharat’ (Developed India) by 2047. In his 11th consecutive Independence Day speech, Modi emphasized India’s potential to become the world’s third-largest economy and its aspiration to host the 2036 Olympics.Modi announced several new initiatives, including plans to increase medical seats by 75,000 in the next five years and to draft 1 lakh young people with no family political connections into politics. He stated, ‘If 40 crore Indians could drive away the British, then 140 crore Indians of my family can do wonders if they take one pledge’.The Prime Minister also addressed various social issues, including the need for a uniform civil code, which he described as a ‘secular’ civil code as opposed to the current ‘communal’ code. He emphasized women’s empowerment, stating, ‘Women are leading the way in every sector, from the Air Force to beyond, showcasing unparalleled excellence’.While the government and supporters praised the speech, with Home Minister Amit Shah saying it ‘cast a panoramic view of a radiant future on the horizon’, opposition leaders criticized it as ‘uninspiring’ and ‘divisive’. They claimed the speech ignored pressing issues such as the Hindenburg Research report allegations and the need for free and fair elections.The Independence Day celebrations featured heightened security measures and special guests, including members of the Indian contingent for the Paris Olympics. Modi broke security protocols to interact with NCC cadets donning ’78 Viksit Bharat 2047′ gear after the event.
Key points
- PM Modi delivered his 11th consecutive Independence Day speech, focusing on the vision of ‘Viksit Bharat’ by 2047.
- New initiatives announced include increasing medical seats and drafting young people into politics.
- Modi emphasized the need for a ‘secular’ civil code and women’s empowerment.
- The speech received mixed reactions, with praise from supporters and criticism from opposition.
Contradictions👾While Modi emphasized a ‘secular’ civil code, opposition leaders viewed his speech as divisive and aligned with the RSS agenda.
