Independence Day 2025: 5 key highlights from PM Modi’s speech
PM Modi sets record with longest Independence Day speech: 103 minutes | In 1947, India’s first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, delivered a 72-minute Independence Day address
PTC Web Desk: Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered India’s longest-ever Independence Day speech on Friday, August 15, 2025, marking the 79th Independence Day. Speaking from the ramparts of the Red Fort for an unprecedented 103 minutes, PM Modi surpassed his own 98-minute record from last year. This address also broke Indira Gandhi’s streak, marking Modi’s 12th consecutive Independence Day speech, second only to Jawaharlal Nehru’s 17 consecutive addresses.
During his speech, PM Modi announced several landmark initiatives across national security, economic reforms, employment, and energy.
1. ‘Sudarshan Chakra’ Mission
PM Modi announced the launch of the ‘Sudarshan Chakra’ mission to enhance India’s national security framework. Inspired by Lord Krishna’s Sudarshan Chakra, the initiative aims to develop a domestically designed, Iron Dome-like defence system to protect critical sites, including civilian areas. PM Modi emphasised self-reliance, stating that the system would be researched, developed, and manufactured in India, leveraging the talent of Indian youth. “This system will not only counter terrorist attacks but also strike back at the perpetrators,” he said, with a target for completion by 2035.
2. GST Reforms – A Diwali Gift
The Prime Minister announced major Goods and Services Tax (GST) reforms, promising relief for MSMEs, local vendors, and consumers. The next-generation GST reforms will be unveiled during Diwali. PM Modi also announced the formation of a dedicated Reform Task Force to modernise governance, cut red tape, accelerate economic growth, and prepare India for a USD 10 trillion economy by 2047.
3. Employment Initiative – PM Viksit Bharat Rozgar Yojana
Under the Rs 1 lakh crore PM Viksit Bharat Rozgar Yojana, the government aims to create 3.5 crore jobs over the next two years. Beneficiaries will receive Rs 15,000 per month, targeting three crore young Indians. PM Modi described the scheme as a crucial step in bridging Swatantra Bharat (Independent India) to Samriddha Bharat (Prosperous India). The scheme was approved by the Union Cabinet on July 1, 2025.
4. High-Powered Demography Mission:
Highlighting national security concerns related to demographic imbalances due to infiltration and illegal migration, PM Modi announced a high-powered demography mission. The initiative seeks to protect citizens’ rights and ensure the unity and integrity of the nation, particularly in sensitive border areas.
5. Nuclear Energy Expansion
PM Modi reaffirmed India’s commitment to increasing nuclear energy capacity tenfold by 2047. Work is underway on 10 new nuclear reactors, reflecting India’s long-term focus on sustainable, clean energy to support its growing economy.