Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s 79th Independence Day address from the Red Fort underscored India’s relentless pursuit of self-reliance, positioning it as the cornerstone of national strength and a developed future by 2047. His speech, rich with strategic vision and tangible milestones, outlined how India is transforming its defence, energy, space, and manufacturing sectors to achieve *Viksit Bharat*—a prosperous and self-sufficient India.
### Defence Self-Reliance and ‘Operation Sindoor’
A defining moment in India’s defence modernisation, ‘Operation Sindoor’, took centre stage in PM Modi’s address. He hailed the operation as a testament to India’s growing self-reliance in defence, emphasising that indigenous weapons and capabilities allow the nation to act decisively without relying on foreign suppliers. “National security cannot be outsourced,” he declared, reinforcing the idea that strategic autonomy is non-negotiable.
This push for self-sufficiency is not just about reducing import dependence but also about fostering innovation. The Prime Minister highlighted how domestic defence production empowers India to respond swiftly and independently to emerging threats, ensuring that its military remains at the forefront of technological advancement.
### Space Sector Independence
India’s ambitions in space exploration took a significant leap forward as PM Modi announced plans for an indigenous space station, honouring the achievements of Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla. With over 300 startups driving innovation in satellites, exploration, and cutting-edge space technologies, India is positioning itself as a global leader in space science.
This focus on indigenous space capabilities reflects a broader strategy to reduce reliance on foreign technology and assert India’s role in shaping the future of space exploration. The Prime Minister’s vision aligns with India’s growing reputation as a hub for space innovation, where public and private sectors collaborate to push boundaries.
### Clean and Renewable Energy
Energy independence emerged as another critical pillar of India’s self-reliance. PM Modi revealed that India had achieved its 2030 target of 50% clean energy by 2025, a testament to the nation’s commitment to sustainable growth. Solar, nuclear, hydro, and hydrogen energy have been prioritised, ensuring that India’s energy sector is both resilient and forward-looking.
The Prime Minister also highlighted the expansion of nuclear energy through private sector participation, with 10 new reactors already operational. By India’s 100th year of independence, the nation aims to increase its nuclear energy capacity tenfold, further solidifying its energy sovereignty.
### National Critical Minerals Mission
To secure essential resources for defence, industry, and energy, India has launched the National Critical Minerals Mission, exploring over 1,200 sites. Controlling these minerals is crucial for strategic autonomy, ensuring that India’s industrial and defence sectors remain self-reliant.
This initiative underscores the importance of resource security in an increasingly competitive global landscape, where access to critical minerals can determine a nation’s economic and military strength.
### National Deepwater Exploration Mission
India’s push for energy independence extends to its deepwater resources. The National Deepwater Exploration Mission aims to harness domestic energy reserves, reducing reliance on foreign fuel imports. This strategic move not only strengthens India’s energy security but also positions it as a key player in the global energy market.
### Agricultural Self-Reliance and Fertilisers
Agricultural self-sufficiency remains a priority for India, with PM Modi stressing the need to produce fertilisers domestically. By reducing import dependence, India can empower its farmers, protect food security, and strengthen its economic sovereignty.
This focus on domestic production aligns with the broader goal of self-reliance, ensuring that India’s agricultural sector remains resilient and independent.
### Digital Sovereignty and Indigenous Platforms
PM Modi called on India’s youth to develop indigenous social media platforms and digital infrastructure, ensuring that communication, data, and technological ecosystems remain secure and independent. This push for digital sovereignty is essential in an era where data is power, and technological autonomy is key to national security.
### Self-Reliance in Medicines and Innovation
India’s reputation as the “pharmacy of the world” was highlighted, with the Prime Minister stressing the need for greater investment in research and development. Drawing inspiration from India’s COVID-19 response, where indigenous vaccines and platforms like CoWin saved millions of lives, he urged the nation to expand this spirit of innovation.
This focus on domestic pharmaceutical innovation ensures that India not only meets its own healthcare needs but also contributes to global health security.
### Championing Swadeshi
PM Modi urged citizens and shopkeepers to champion India-made goods under the ‘Vocal for Local’ initiative, emphasising that swadeshi should stem from pride and strength, not compulsion. This call to action reflects a
