New Delhi: On the 79th Independence Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered a powerful address to the nation from the ramparts of the Red Fort, making a series of bold announcements.
With a firm tone, he declared that India would no longer tolerate nuclear threats and pledged to end the “injustice” of the Indus Waters Treaty. In his 12th consecutive Independence Day speech, PM Modi outlined a strong vision for India’s future in self-reliance, technology, and defence.
He lauded the success of Operation Sindoor and spoke of rapid advancements in sectors like semiconductors. He also announced major benefits for the youth and promised next-generation GST reforms. Here’s a breakdown of the key takeaways from his speech in simple terms:
A Big Diwali Gift
This Diwali, PM Modi announced that the government will roll out next-generation reforms in the Goods and Services Tax (GST) system. The new framework will simplify tax slabs and lower GST rates on everyday items.
He said:
“This Diwali, you will see a new and simplified GST structure that will make life easier for the common man and strengthen our economy.”
According to him, significant GST reforms have already taken place over the past eight years, and these new changes will further reduce the tax burden, boost domestic consumption, and ensure greater transparency and compliance.
‘Sudarshan Chakra’: India’s New Defence Shield
In the defence sector, PM Modi introduced a new initiative called the Sudarshan Chakra Mission.
“By 2035, we will further strengthen our national security shield. Inspired by Lord Krishna’s Sudarshan Chakra, we have chosen this path,” he said.
The mission aims to use cutting-edge technology to protect India’s cities, strategic locations, and sacred sites. PM Modi declared that the Sudarshan Chakra will become a force capable of defeating any enemy plot.
₹15,000 Bonus for Young Job Starters
Announcing a major employment scheme for youth, PM Modi launched the Pradhan Mantri Viksit Bharat Rojgar Yojana worth ₹1 lakh crore. Under this plan, young people securing their first private sector job will receive ₹15,000 from the government.
Companies generating more jobs will also receive incentive payments. The PM claimed this initiative will create about 3.5 crore new jobs, calling it a golden opportunity for India’s youth.
Firm Stance on Nuclear Threats and the Indus Waters Treaty
On the issue of nuclear intimidation, PM Modi stated:
“India will no longer tolerate nuclear blackmail. We have decided not to bow down to such threats.”
Calling the Indus Waters Treaty “unjust,” he said:
“Blood and water cannot flow together. This treaty has harmed our farmers while watering enemy fields. What kind of agreement is this?”
He made it clear that India will now adopt a new approach to safeguard its farmers’ rights.
A New Mantra for Self-Reliance
Stressing the importance of self-reliance, the PM said that depending on others is “a recipe for disaster.” He detailed plans to make India self-sufficient in solar, hydrogen, and nuclear energy.
Operation Sindoor’s Impact
Recalling the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, PM Modi praised Operation Sindoor:
“We gave our army full freedom, and they destroyed terrorist infrastructure inside enemy territory. This was something not done in decades.”
Made-in-India Semiconductors by Year-End
Highlighting India’s progress in technology, PM Modi put special emphasis on semiconductors:
“The idea of a semiconductor factory came 50–60 years ago, but it was suppressed. We lost decades. Now, we are working in mission mode. By the end of this year, Made-in-India chips will be in the market.”
He concluded by saying that the 21st century belongs to technology, and nations leading in this field will be the ones to succeed — with India rapidly moving ahead in the race.