Independence Day 2025: PM Modi’s Top 10 Highlights from Red Fort

India is celebrating its 79th Independence Day today. On this occasion, Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the nation from the ramparts of the Red Fort and made several major announcements. These included a Diwali gift of reduced GST on essential goods and a new job scheme to generate employment for youth. National security and self-reliance were also strongly emphasized in his speech. Here are the top 10 key points made by the Prime Minister:

Patriotism and Unity: PM Modi said that whether it is the Himalayas or the deserts, coastal regions or the big cities — there is one united voice across the country: “We love India more than our lives.”

Guidance from the Constitution: The Prime Minister said that for the last 75 years, the Constitution has shown us the way forward like a lighthouse.

Terrorism and National Security: He highlighted that Indian armed forces have given a strong response to the masterminds of terror and that the country will no longer tolerate threats or blackmail.

Water Power and Indus Water Treaty: Modi reiterated that “blood and water cannot flow together.” He stated that water from the Indus river system will be used for Indian farmers rather than benefiting enemy nations.

Self-Reliance and Swadeshi: He emphasized that while colonialism made India dependent, self-reliance is now the foundation of a developed India — in sectors like agriculture, energy, and defense.

Military Strength and Indigenous Weapons: PM Modi stressed that the power of Made-in-India weapons surprised the enemy. Operations like “Sindoor” would not have been possible without self-reliance in defense.

Energy and Nuclear Self-Sufficiency: He noted that India is rapidly advancing in solar, hydrogen, and nuclear energy, with 10 new nuclear reactors operational and a goal to increase nuclear capacity tenfold in the coming years.

Jobs and Employment Schemes: The Prime Minister launched the Pradhan Mantri Viksit Bharat Rojgar Yojana, a ₹1 lakh crore scheme, under which youth entering their first private job will receive ₹15,000 support. The scheme could generate 3.5 crore jobs.

Tax Reform and New GST: Modi announced a major Diwali gift — the next-generation GST reform, which will reduce GST rates on essential goods and lower tax burden on the common public, benefiting MSMEs as well.

Call to Youth and Technology: He called on the youth to step forward in sectors like semiconductors, jet engines, and space missions, working towards a “less cost, more value” India.