metro india news  I new delhi

In the longest speech by any Prime Minister, Modi on Friday delivered a 103-minute Independence Day speech from the ramparts of the Red Fort, waxing eloquent on self-reliance (atma-nirbhar Bharat). The address was a combination of nationalism and economic modernisation, embossed in BJP’s age-old narrative of self-reliance, cultural pride, and a strong, self-confident state.  

The ideology rejects dependence on external powers and considers it a throwback of colonial mind-set and subjugation. The PM went on to add, Past decade was of reform, perform and transform; now we have to focus on greater goals. “I salute dedication of RSS volunteers in serving nation over past 100 years. India is proud of RSS ‘100 years of dedication towards country, it is biggest NGO in the world.”

The emphasis on self-reliance in defence, technology, and energy, evidenced by references to “Made in India” semiconductor chips, Operation Sindoor, and nuclear energy expansion, signals a new phase in India’s developmental journey, which aligns with a broader ideological and strategic push to redefine independence as not just political but economic, technological and digital sovereignty as well.

It is when a country is self-sufficient that it can pursue its national interests without any compromise or being blackmailed. Citing Operation Sindoor as proof of India’s capacity to act decisively with indigenous weapons, PM Modi called upon the nation to take up new missions from rolling out the first Made-in-India semiconductor chip to developing jet engines, to a significant push to nuclear power, to ensure clean energy to power India’s growth. The National Critical Minerals Mission and the National Deep-water Exploration Mission are crucial steps towards resource sovereignty, ensuring that the nation’s industrial, defence, and energy needs are met from within.

In pharmaceuticals, he called for a renewed push in domestic R&D so India can lead in developing affordable, life-saving medicines and vaccines, building on the country’s Covid-era innovations. Extending this vision, PM Modi underscored India’s rapidly advancing capabilities in space science, noting that preparations for establishing an indigenous space station are progressing steadily, with the achievements of the Gaganyaan mission serving as a catalyst.

He pointed to the emergence of over 300 home-grown start-ups that are driving innovation in satellite technology and space exploration. They illustrate India’s resolve to lead in high-technology sectors with indigenous solutions that reflect national ambition and strategic autonomy. The speech also highlighted India’s resolve to defend its farmers and the agriculture sector from the unequal competition from the global food companies and undue pressure in trade negotiations.