15 August 2025
On the 79th Independence Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the nation from the historic Red Fort, reiterating India’s resolve to become a Viksit Bharat (Developed India) by 2047. His speech underlined how India is rapidly advancing towards self-reliance (Aatmanirbhar Bharat) across every sector — from high-tech manufacturing to clean energy, from defence to digital innovation.
Semiconductor Revolution: From Missed Opportunities to Mission Mode
PM Modi recalled that over 50 years ago, when semiconductors first came into global discussion, the then Congress government only engaged in debates and paperwork, without any ground-level progress. Today, under the Semiconductor Mission, India is set to establish six new semiconductor manufacturing units, in addition to the four already announced. The Prime Minister announced that Made-in-India semiconductor chips will be available in Indian markets within this year, marking a monumental leap in technology self-sufficiency.
Energy Sector Transformation: Clean, Green, and Future-Ready
The Prime Minister laid out a comprehensive vision for making India a leader in sustainable energy:
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Solar Energy: Expansion by 30 times to meet rising demand with clean sources.
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Hydropower: Large-scale dam construction to tap the immense potential of river-based renewable power.
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Green Hydrogen Mission: Moving towards nature-friendly energy solutions with green hydrogen as a major focus.
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Nuclear Energy Reforms: Strategic reforms, including privatisation, to strengthen nuclear power generation. The goal is to increase nuclear energy output tenfold by 2047.
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Ahead of Targets: India had aimed to achieve 50% clean and green energy by 2030 — a target now achieved five years earlier, in 2025. This reflects India’s deep environmental responsibility and global climate leadership.
Exploring New Frontiers: Oceans, Minerals, and Critical Resources
PM Modi highlighted the National Deep Water Exploration Mission, aimed at offshore exploration for natural gas and crude oil. He also announced the National Critical Minerals Mission, targeting exploration in 12 locations across the country. These rare earth minerals, vital for defence, technology, industry, and the energy sector, will be key to India’s self-reliance strategy.
Defence and Technology: Made in India, Made for the World
From indigenous fighter jets to operating systems, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and advanced data platforms, the Prime Minister emphasised the goal of creating a modern, fully indigenous ecosystem across all critical domains. The vision is clear: by 2047, India will not just participate in the global technology race, but lead it.
Empowering Citizens and Innovators
PM Modi concluded by honouring the countless freedom fighters who gave their lives for India’s independence, and by urging citizens to contribute towards building a prosperous India. The focus will be on strengthening the “Local for Vocal” spirit, implementing forward-looking policy reforms, and creating an enabling state that acts as a friend to innovators. Ideas born in India, he said, have the potential to guide the future of the global community and improve lives worldwide.
A Collective National Mission
The Prime Minister’s Independence Day address was not just a speech — it was a roadmap. It called upon every citizen to align their personal aspirations with the national goal of making India a Viksit and Aatmanirbhar Bharat by 2047. With determination, innovation, and unity, the vision of a self-reliant India across all sectors is within reach.
Defending National Interests Amid Global Pressures
Addressing the economic pressures being exerted on India in the current global scenario, PM Modi firmly stated that the nation will never compromise on the interests of its farmers, livestock rearers, and fishermen. By presenting innovation and the vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat before the country, he also delivered a clear message to the global community and international politics — India’s progress will always safeguard the livelihoods and dignity of its people.