Prime Minister Modi urged Indian youth to develop indigenous social media platforms akin to Facebook and X, emphasizing digital sovereignty and secure technological ecosystems. He highlighted the success of India's UPI platform, which accounts for 50% of global real-time transactions, and challenged the youth to create homegrown alternatives to prevent wealth outflow and ensure data security.
Prime Minister Modi, in his I-Day speech, rejected the Indus Waters Treaty with Pakistan, deeming it unjust and detrimental to Indian farmers. He asserted India's right to utilize its water resources and vowed to end «nuclear blackmail.» Modi lauded Operation Sindoor, highlighting the destruction of terrorist infrastructure and emphasizing India's self-reliance in defense.
The absence of Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge from the Independence Day event at Red Fort sparked controversy, with BJP leaders accusing Congress of disrespecting the nation. Congress sources cited concerns over discriminatory seating arrangements and protocol as the reason for their leaders' absence.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi lauded the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) from the Red Fort, acknowledging its century-long contribution to nation-building as a «proud and golden chapter.» He praised the organization's dedication to national service and character-building. Modi also honored Shyama Prasad Mookerjee, emphasizing the removal of Article 370 as a tribute to his vision of a unified nation.
Congress criticized PM Modi's Independence Day speech, particularly his mention of the RSS, deeming it a violation of secular principles and an attempt to appease the organization. Opposition parties, including CPM and TMC, also condemned the speech, with TMC accusing Modi of targeting «infiltrators.» Sena (UBT) remarked on Modi's endorsement of 'swadeshi', likening it to Congress's historical stance.
Prime Minister Modi delivered a 103-minute Independence Day speech, surpassing his previous record from last year and setting a new milestone. He also exceeded Indira Gandhi's record by delivering his 12th consecutive address from the Red Fort. However, Jawaharlal Nehru still holds the overall record with 17 consecutive I-Day speeches.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced grand plans to celebrate the second birth centenary of Jyotiba Phule, a 19th-century social reformer revered by OBCs for his anti-caste activism and advocacy for women's education. Modi emphasized Phule's principles of prioritizing the backward, stating his government is committed to implementing this mantra through transparent policies.
RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat advocates for regulating stray dog populations through sterilization and vaccination, aligning with existing Animal Birth Control rules. He opposes the Supreme Court's order to relocate strays to shelters, deeming it impractical. Bhagwat emphasizes balancing human needs with animal rights and environmental conservation, drawing parallels to traditional cattle rearing practices.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced 'Mission Sudarshan Chakra,' an indigenous air and missile defense shield, to provide complete security cover to strategic and civilian locations by 2035. This initiative, spurred by the recent cross-border tensions and threats, aims to develop a multi-layered defense system integrated with potent counter-offensive weapons.
Prime Minister Modi announced a 'high-powered demographic mission' to tackle infiltration and illegal immigration, citing threats to national security and demographic changes in border regions. He highlighted the issue of illegal immigrants impacting livelihoods and tribal lands.
Nagaland Governor La Ganesan passed away at the age of 80 in a Chennai hospital while undergoing treatment. He had been in the ICU after collapsing at his home and sustaining a head injury on August 8. Appointed in February 2023, Ganesan's death prompted condolences from PM Modi, who remembered him as a dedicated nationalist and BJP leader.
A social media post by the oil ministry on Independence Day, featuring V.D. Savarkar alongside Mahatma Gandhi, has ignited a political controversy. The opposition Congress party has accused the Modi government of distorting history and glorifying figures like Savarkar, who they deem a «traitor.» This has led to sharp criticism and accusations of disrespecting freedom fighters.
The BJP criticized Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge for not attending the Independence Day celebration at the Red Fort. Amit Malviya, BJP I-T cell chief, questioned Gandhi's absence and commitment to national events, also noting his disoriented appearance at the Congress HQ. He further emphasized that such absence sends a poor message about his commitment to national occasions.
On the 79th Independence Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) from the Red Fort, acknowledging its century of service to the nation. He hailed the RSS as the world's largest NGO, emphasizing its dedication to nation-building and welfare.
In his Independence Day address, PM Modi highlighted India's progress and future goals. He lauded Operation Sindoor, warned against terrorism and demographic changes, and emphasised self-reliance in space. Modi also praised the RSS's contributions and cautioned against repeating the Emergency's mistakes. He addressed farmers' interests amid tariff disputes and advocated for 'Swadeshi' products, urging national unity and development.
On India's Independence Day, Russia extended warm greetings to President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, acknowledging India's significant achievements across various sectors. Vladimir Putin emphasized the strategic partnership between the two nations and expressed eagerness to broaden bilateral cooperation. This message arrives amidst US tariff threats and geopolitical tensions, highlighting the enduring bond between Russia and India.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, addressing the nation on Independence Day, warned of a premeditated conspiracy to alter India's demography through illegal infiltration. He asserted that these «ghuspaithiyas» pose a threat by snatching opportunities from the youth, targeting women, and encroaching on tribal lands. Modi announced a high-powered demographic mission to tackle this crisis within a set timeframe.
Following the devastating cloudburst in Kishtwar's Chasoti village, which resulted in 60 fatalities and over 100 injuries, Prime Minister Modi has assured Jammu and Kashmir of full support. The disaster, occurring during the Machail Mata Yatra, caused widespread destruction. Rescue operations are ongoing, with helpline numbers established to aid those affected by the floods.
Prime Minister Modi addressed the nation on Independence Day, outlining initiatives for energy independence, domestic semiconductor production, and GST reforms. He introduced the PM Viksit Bharat Rojgar Yojana to boost job creation and emphasized prioritizing farmers' interests. Modi also warned against nuclear threats and criticized the Indus Waters Treaty, vowing to protect India's interests.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the nation from the Red Fort on the 79th Independence Day, marking his 12th consecutive address. He paid tribute to Mahatma Gandhi and hoisted the flag, emphasising the theme of 'Naya Bharat' and the vision of 'Viksit Bharat' by 2047. Modi saluted the armed forces and highlighted India's stance against nuclear threats, referencing actions taken after the Pahalgam attack.
China and India are engaged in ongoing discussions at multiple levels, with potential high-level exchanges on the horizon. Both nations express readiness to collaborate on key issues, build political trust, and manage differences carefully. They aim to strengthen cooperation on multilateral platforms and resume trade through designated border points after a five-year pause, signaling a commitment to steady bilateral ties.
Narendra Modi greets India on its 79th Independence Day. He calls for dedicated efforts to build a developed Bharat. Modi will address the nation from Red Fort. His past speeches included topics like a secular civil code and medical seats. Political observers are watching for foreign policy signals. The government's stance against terrorism is expected to be highlighted.
