New Delhi, Aug 15 (NationPress) On the occasion of the 79th Independence Day, Prime Minister Modi emphasized 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' as a fundamental pillar for 'Viksit Bharat', highlighting India's strides in Defence, technology, energy, space, and manufacturing.

Speaking about 'Operation Sindoor', PM Modi noted that strategic autonomy and domestic capabilities are crucial for effectively addressing threats, positioning self-reliance as the cornerstone of national strength, dignity, and the path to a developed India by 2047.

Here are the salient points from PM Modi’s address at the Red Fort.

Defence Self-Reliance and 'Operation Sindoor':

PM Modi recognized 'Operation Sindoor' as a testament to India’s Defence self-sufficiency. He stressed that homegrown capabilities, including 'Made-in-India' weaponry, empower India to take decisive and independent action, affirming that national security must not depend on foreign resources.

Space Sector Independence:

Celebrating the remarkable accomplishments of Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, PM Modi unveiled ambitious plans for India’s own space station, heralding a new era of domestic space capabilities. He pointed out that over 300 startups are innovating in satellites, exploration, and advanced space technologies, ensuring that India is not just participating but leading globally in space science and exploration.

Clean and Renewable Energy:

PM Modi highlighted the significance of energy independence, asserting that this is vital for the future of the nation’s youth and the well-being of farmers. He proclaimed that while the world debated global warming, India had committed to achieving 50 percent clean energy by 2030, a target that was impressively met by 2025.

Advancements in solar, nuclear, hydro, and hydrogen energy mark a pivotal shift towards energy independence.

He noted India’s focus on expanding nuclear energy through private sector involvement, stating that 10 new nuclear reactors are currently operational, with the aim of increasing nuclear energy capacity tenfold by India’s centenary of Independence, bolstering energy self-reliance and fostering sustainable growth.

National Critical Minerals Mission:

To secure essential resources for energy, industry, and Defence, India has initiated the National Critical Minerals Mission, exploring 1,200 sites.

PM Modi stated that controlling these minerals enhances strategic autonomy, ensuring the industrial and Defence sectors remain self-sufficient.

National Deepwater Exploration Mission:

India will tap into its deepwater energy resources to fortify energy self-reliance and reduce reliance on foreign fuel imports.

Agricultural Self-Reliance and Fertilizers:

PM Modi underscored the pressing necessity to manufacture fertilizers domestically to empower farmers and safeguard national food security.

Minimizing import dependence will ensure the agricultural sector flourishes independently, protecting farmers’ welfare and reinforcing India’s economic sovereignty.

Digital Sovereignty and Indigenous Platforms:

The Prime Minister urged the youth to develop India’s own social media platforms and digital infrastructure, ensuring that communication, data, and technological ecosystems remain secure and self-sufficient, reinforcing India’s digital autonomy.

Self-Reliance in Medicines and Innovation:

The Prime Minister showcased India’s position as the “pharmacy of the world” and emphasized the urgent need to invest further in research and development.

He questioned, “Shouldn’t we be the ones providing the best and most affordable medicines for the welfare of humanity?”

He also highlighted the growing strength in domestic pharmaceutical innovation, stressing the need for developing new medicines, vaccines, and life-saving treatments entirely within India.

Taking inspiration from India’s COVID-19 response, where indigenous vaccines and platforms like CoWin saved millions of lives globally, he called on the nation to broaden this spirit of innovation.

Championing Swadeshi:

He encouraged citizens and retailers to promote India-made products under the 'Vocal for Local' initiative, asserting that swadeshi should arise from pride and strength, not compulsion.

Mission Sudarshan Chakra:

PM Modi announced the launch of 'Mission Sudarshan Chakra', aimed at neutralizing enemy Defence breaches and enhancing India’s offensive capabilities.

He connected the mission to Lord Krishna’s 'Sudarshan Chakra', illustrating how India draws from its rich cultural and mythological heritage to inform modern Defence innovations.

This mission embodies India’s commitment to strategic autonomy, ensuring swift, precise, and robust responses to any threat.