PM Modi delivers 13th Independence day speech as India marks 79 years of freedom

Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered his 13th Independence Day address as India celebrated 80 years of freedom, marking a significant moment from the historic Red Fort in Delhi. Modi began his speech by honoring the sacrifices of freedom fighters, stating, "With freedom as the sole objective, they devoted their entire lives to sacrifice and struggle." He paid tribute to Mahatma Gandhi and other revolutionaries, acknowledging their role in inspiring the nation's journey.

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With freedom as the sole objective, they devoted their entire lives to sacrifice and struggle.

A historic first for this year's celebration was the rendition of the national song 'Vande Mataram' at the Red Fort. "For everyone present at this ceremony today, this is also a historic moment. For the first time since Independence, Vande Mataram is echoing from the Red Fort on August 15," Modi remarked, highlighting the significance of the 150th anniversary of the song.

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I respectfully salute revered Bapu and all the freedom fighters, as well as the great revolutionaries who inspired this glorious tradition of sacrifice.

Looking ahead, Prime Minister Modi set an ambitious goal for India, vowing to transform the nation into a developed country by 2047. "The world will be forced to look at India differently when the most populous country becomes a developed nation," he declared. He emphasized that India cannot progress in the 21st century by adhering to outdated laws, asserting that the resolve for a 'Viksit Bharat' (Developed India) by 2047 is unshakeable.

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For everyone present at this ceremony today, this is also a historic moment. For the first time since Independence, Vande Mataram is echoing from the Red Fort on August 15.

Modi also urged the nation to embrace self-reliance, or 'atmanirbhar', stating that dependence on other countries is not sustainable. He praised citizens for aligning with the 'vocal for local' spirit and highlighted the crucial role of 'Yuva Shakti' (youth power) in India's path toward becoming a developed nation by 2047. The Independence Day celebrations across the country featured flag-hoisting ceremonies and cultural performances, underscoring the collective national spirit.

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The world will be forced to look at India differently when the most populous country becomes a developed nation.