Modi’s Independence Day vision: Strong, self-reliant India

Post by : Jyoti Singh

Photo: Instragram/@Narendra Modi

Modi’s Independence Day Message: A Roadmap for a Strong and Self-Reliant India. On this Independence Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the nation from the historic Red Fort in Delhi, presenting a bold vision for India’s future. His message was clear and powerful: India’s progress rests on the foundation of Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India), which will ultimately lead to a Viksit Bharat (developed India). Modi explained that India must learn to turn every challenge into an opportunity, build strong defences, and secure its rightful place as a leader on the global stage.

The Role of Self-Reliance in Nation-Building

The Prime Minister reminded the country that during the COVID-19 pandemic, India transformed a major crisis into an opportunity. The Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative not only helped India manage the crisis effectively but also set the country on a new path of economic growth. Similarly, the current challenges, such as trade tariffs imposed by the United States, can also become opportunities for India to grow stronger and more independent.

He highlighted that self-reliance is not about closing doors to the world but about strengthening the nation’s ability to stand tall in the face of global disruptions. By becoming a strong and independent production hub, India can capture world markets in sectors ranging from automobiles and pharmaceuticals to textiles and technology.

Security and Defence: The Sudarshan Chakra Vision

Modi spoke about building a strong security system, which he called the Sudarshan Chakra. This vision aims to neutralise threats from all directions while also improving India’s offensive capabilities. A strong defense, he explained, is not only about protecting the nation but also about providing a foundation for peace and growth.

India’s Economy: From Strength to Strength

Today, India is one of the fastest-growing economies in the world. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has even called India the only bright spot in an otherwise dark horizon. Despite global challenges, India’s economy remains strong because of careful policies and reforms.

The Prime Minister expressed confidence that India can maintain a sustainable growth rate of more than 7% in the coming years. He reminded citizens that India is already a \$4.187 trillion economy and is moving towards becoming a \$30-35 trillion economy by 2047 — the year India celebrates 100 years of independence.

He also noted one of India’s biggest achievements: lifting more than 250 million people above the poverty line. Along with that, India has made huge progress in digitising the economy, improving infrastructure, and serving the poor through social schemes.

Infrastructure Growth: Building a Modern India

Modi emphasized that India’s rapid progress in infrastructure reflects the country’s determination. In 2014, India was building only 14 kilometres of road every day. Today, the figure has increased to more than 34 kilometres per day. This massive improvement shows how far the country has come in just a decade.

During the pandemic, India also proved itself as the pharmacy of the world by supplying medicines, vaccines, and medical equipment to countries in need. This, Modi said, is proof of India’s capability and determination to help not only itself but also the rest of the world.

Tariffs and Trade: Turning Obstacles into Opportunities

Recently, the United States has threatened to impose tariffs on Indian goods. The US argues that there is a trade imbalance and has raised concerns over India’s oil imports from Russia despite sanctions. Such tariffs, if applied, could harm India’s export-driven industries, including textiles, automobiles, IT services, and pharmaceuticals.

But Modi expressed confidence that India can navigate this challenge through dialogue, diplomacy, and strategic planning. Instead of being seen as a setback, the tariff threat can push India to explore new markets in Asia, Africa, Latin America, Europe, and Australia.

He explained that Africa, with its vast opportunities in agriculture, infrastructure, and energy, could become an important trade partner. Similarly, ASEAN countries in Southeast Asia provide growing markets for Indian goods like textiles, medicines, and machinery. Free trade agreements with the UK and Australia, along with stronger partnerships in Europe, will also help India expand its global presence.

Boosting Indian Brands and Semiconductor Drive

The Prime Minister also underlined the importance of building and promoting Indian brands on global platforms. He urged businesses to use both international marketplaces like Amazon and homegrown platforms to reach customers worldwide.

One of the most ambitious projects is India’s semiconductor mission. By the end of this year, the first Made in India semiconductor chips will be available in the market. Six new semiconductor plants are already being set up, with four more approved, placing India on the path to becoming a major technology hub.

Renewable Energy and Global Alliances

India is also leading the world in renewable energy. The target is to produce 500 gigawatts of clean energy by 2030. Initiatives such as the International Solar Alliance and the Global Bio-fuel Alliance have already gained global recognition. These efforts not only help protect the environment but also give India a stronger role in trade discussions, potentially reducing the impact of tariffs.

The Prime Minister acknowledged that India currently spends only 0.7% of its GDP on research and development compared to 2-3% in developed countries. However, this number is increasing with new missions like the National Quantum Mission and the expansion of the Startup India program.

India’s Role in Technology and Services

India is already a powerhouse in IT services. The Prime Minister said the next step is to diversify exports in new sectors like cloud services, biotechnology, quantum computing, cybersecurity, and fintech. These areas are less vulnerable to tariffs and can bring long-term growth to the economy.

By strengthening its intellectual property laws, India can negotiate better trade terms and protect innovations. Modi stressed that India must become a preferred alternative to China for global supply chains, absorbing investments and building resilience.

Supply Chain Resilience and Infrastructure Push

Modi explained that strengthening domestic supply chains is the key to reducing dependence on others. The Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme must be expanded to attract global firms to manufacture in India.

However, India must also work on lowering logistics costs. At present, India spends almost 14% of its GDP on logistics compared to 8-9% in developed countries. Faster port clearances, efficient warehousing, and better cargo transport systems are essential to make Indian exports globally competitive.

Next-Gen Tax Reforms

The Prime Minister highlighted that the government is working on “Next-Generation GST Reforms” to reduce the tax burden and make compliance easier. Moving towards a simpler two-rate GST system will help align India with global best practices.

For small and medium businesses, which form the backbone of India’s exports, compliance requirements are being simplified. This will make them stronger and more competitive in the global market.

Tourism, which is unaffected by tariffs, must also be promoted as a major growth sector. With its rich cultural heritage and natural beauty, India can attract millions of tourists from around the world.

Women Empowerment and Inclusive Growth

One of the highlights of Modi’s speech was the empowerment of women through government schemes. He pointed out that 80% of Stand-Up India loans and 68% of Mudra loans have been given to women entrepreneurs. This, he said, shows that women are at the centre of India’s growth story.

The government has also focused on ensuring food security, providing healthcare, and promoting digital payments. India today has one of the largest food security programs in the world and is a global leader in digital transactions.

A New India: Strong, Secure, and United

Modi ended his speech with a strong message: India today is no longer weak. It is a new India — strong, secure, and ready to face any challenge. This strength, he said, comes from the collective effort of every citizen, guided by the principle of Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas, Sabka Prayas (together with all, development for all, trust of all, and efforts by all).

From lifting millions out of poverty to becoming a global manufacturing hub, from defending the nation to leading in renewable energy, India is on its way to achieving the dream of becoming a fully developed nation by 2047.

Narendra Modi