As India celebrated its 75th year of Independence, Prime Minister Narendra Modi called on the nation to come together and contribute to realize its full potential.
Early this year, on March 31st, Prime Minister Modi had announced ‘Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav’ (Elixir of energy of Independence), a time period that is to continue until 2023, largely aimed at building an ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ (Self-Reliant India), and celebrating the Indian culture.
Today, Prime Minister Narendra Modi hoisted the tricolor flag at the Red Fort in Delhi and addressed the nation.
The Prime Minister started his speech wishing the nation a happy Independence Day and looked back at Mahatma Gandhi, Nethaji Subhash Chandra Bose, and other stalwarts of the freedom struggle.
He praised those from the health care system for fighting the coronavirus and also the medalists at the recent Olympics for inspiring the youth.
Remembering those who succumbed to inhumane conditions and violence during the partition, the Prime Minister reiterated that August 14th would be ‘Partition Horrors Remembrance Day.’
The time for change is now
Mr. Modi wondered what the situation would have been if India did not make its own vaccine while the COVID-19 raged on. Although India did not have the same resources as a developed nation, and despite the huge population, India has fought back against the virus, the PM said.
Prime Minister asked the nation to make new resolutions and aspire for more in the years to come. Aspirations must be complemented with hard work, he said.
‘We don’t have a moment to lose. We must initiate the change now,’ the Prime Minister said.
Collective Efforts and Inclusive Development
Mr. Modi stressed the need for a collective effort by adding the term ‘Sabka Prayas’ to his phrase – ‘Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas.’
Speaking of welfare programs such as ‘Ayushman Bharat,’ ‘Ujwal Bharat,’ and ‘Har Ghar Jal,’ the Prime Minister said these schemes must reach everyone soon.
When the benefits reach even the last remaining person, that is when the discrimination and corruption will cease, said the PM, adding that 45 kgs of nutritious fortified rice will be given to the poor from here onwards.
The country’s development must be all-inclusive, and no one must be left out, the Prime Minister said.
North-East, Jammu and Kashmir, Himalayan Region, will play a key role in India’s march ahead, the PM said. ‘Sindhu Central University’ will make Ladakh an education hub, even as the region is going through a transformation now.
In the North-East, the potential for Tourism, Adventure sports, Organic Farming, Herbal Medicine, and Oil Palm is waiting to be fully tapped, he said.
Infrastructure Development
The Prime Minister said that his government would soon roll out ‘Gati Shakti,’ a 100 Lakh crore program that will provide employment opportunities to Lakhs of youngsters.
He termed the next 25 years as ‘Amrit Kaal,’ a time period that will see the nation’s resolutions implemented and turned to results. That means India will have world-class modern infrastructure in cities and villages alike, he said.
Green Energy
“We are spending 12 lakh crores on energy imports, and India must be self-reliant in this sector,” said Mr. Modi.
Speaking of Climate change and the need for sustainable energy, the Prime Minister said that 100 GW of renewable energy is already achieved, and with the goal of 450 GW by 2030, India is well on its way.
The Deep Ocean Mission will transform the country by utilizing the mineral wealth, and thermal energy, said the Prime Minister.
Less Government Interference
The government will have little interference in the lives of citizens, said the Prime Minister.
Mr. Modi, a strong proponent of removing the laws that are of no contemporary relevance, pointed out that his government has already abolished 15,000 compliances that were of no significance.