New Delhi, August 15, 2025 – Today, as India marked its 79th Independence Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi stood tall at the historic Red Fort, delivering what turned out to be his longest speech ever, a whopping 103 minutes. Dressed in a striking saffron turban and waistcoat over a white kurta, PM Modi addressed a huge crowd under clear skies, with the tricolor fluttering high. This was his 12th straight Independence Day speech from this spot, and it felt like a mix of pride, warnings, and big plans for the future. The theme was “Naya Bharat” , a new India, and he touched on everything from fighting terror to creating jobs for the youth. People across the country tuned in, from villages to cities, as he painted a picture of a stronger, united nation aiming to become a developed powerhouse by 2047. It wasn’t just words, there were real announcements that could change lives. Let’s break down the top 15 key moments from his talk, based on what he said and how it’s being talked about.
1. Record-Breaking Speech Length:
PM Modi spoke for 103 minutes, making it the longest Independence Day address by any Indian leader. He covered a wide range of topics without rushing, showing his commitment to sharing a detailed vision. This beat his own previous records and kept everyone hooked, from the armed forces parade to cultural shows at the Red Fort.
2. Tribute to Freedom Fighters:
Right at the start, the PM paid homage to icons like Mahatma Gandhi, Dr. Shyama Prasad Mukherjee, and others who fought for India’s freedom. He reminded us how their sacrifices built the nation and urged everyone to remember the Constitution’s role in keeping us together. It was a heartfelt nod to our roots, setting a patriotic tone for the day.
3. Vision for Viksit Bharat by 2047:
Modi stressed his dream of a “Developed India” in the next 22 years. He called it a collective goal, saying every citizen has a part to play in making India self-reliant and prosperous. This isn’t new, but he made it sound urgent, linking it to daily efforts in education, health, and tech.
4. Success of Operation Sindoor:
One of the big cheers came when he praised the armed forces for pulling off Operation Sindoor, a precise strike against terror groups. He said it showed India’s strength and self-reliance, proving we can handle threats without outside help. It was a proud moment, highlighting our military’s bravery.
5. Strong Warning to Pakistan on Terrorism:
In a firm tone, the PM warned neighbors, especially Pakistan, against supporting terror. He said India won’t stand for it anymore and mentioned how recent attacks won’t go unanswered. It was a clear message: peace is key, but we’ll defend ourselves fiercely.
6. Suspension of Indus Water Treaty:
Building on that, Modi announced plans to pause the Indus Water Treaty, saying “blood and water can’t flow together.” This comes after tensions over water sharing and terror links. It’s a bold step that could reshape relations and boost our water security.
7. No Tolerance for Nuclear Blackmail:
He directly addressed threats of nuclear weapons, saying India won’t be bullied. Without naming anyone, it was aimed at those using such tactics. Modi emphasized building our own defenses to stay safe in a tricky world.
8. Launch of Sudarshan Chakra Mission:
A major defense announcement was the Sudarshan Chakra system, aimed at boosting our strategic power by 2035. It’s about home-grown tech for security, reducing dependence on imports. This could make India a top player in global defense.
9. Youth Employment Boost with ₹1 Lakh Crore Scheme:
Turning to jobs, the PM unveiled the Pradhan Mantri Viksit Bharat Rojgaar Yojana, pumping in ₹1 lakh crore for startups, AI, and green jobs. He wants young people to become job creators, not just seekers, which could spark a wave of innovation.
10. GST Reforms Coming by Diwali:
Good news for everyday folks – Modi promised GST changes by Diwali, cutting taxes on essentials like food and household items. He called it a “double Diwali” gift to ease costs amid rising prices. This ties into India’s strong economy, with 6.5% growth.
11. Push for Self-Reliance in Semiconductors:
He highlighted plans for “Made-in-India” chips by year’s end, aiming to make us a tech hub. With semiconductor production ramping up, it’s about cutting imports and boosting exports in gadgets and electronics.
12. Mission Hydrogen for Clean Energy:
Modi talked up Mission Hydrogen to shift to green fuels, reducing pollution and oil dependence. It’s part of a bigger self-reliance drive in energy, with solar and wind power getting more focus.
13. Support for Farmers and Rural Areas:
Farmers got a shoutout with expansions to PM-KISAN payouts, new digital credit options, and solar pumps for dry regions. He praised their role in food security and promised more help to make farming modern and profitable.
14. Empowering Women Through Schemes:
The PM noted that 80% of MUDRA loans go to women and announced 5,000 new clusters for women’s growth by 2030. It’s about equality, from jobs to leadership, helping build a fairer society.
15. Call for Unity and Global Leadership:
Wrapping up, Modi urged everyone to celebrate diversity and stay united. He boasted about India’s G20 wins and a new Global South partnership, positioning us as a world leader in innovation and peace.
As the speech ended with cheers and the national anthem, it left many feeling hopeful yet alert. PM Modi’s words weren’t just for show, they came with actions like new schemes and tough stands on security. In a time when the world watches India closely, from US tariff talks to regional tensions, this address showed a confident nation ready to grow. Whether it’s jobs for the young or stronger borders, these highlights could shape the coming years.
Happy Independence Day to all from our side, let’s work together for that brighter tomorrow.
