Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted “India's approach of women-led development”, the government’s efforts to alleviate poverty, and a burgeoning middle class as he delivered his last Independence Day speech ahead of the general election in 2024. In a speech lasting just over 90 minutes, PM Modi said that the country stands with violence-ravaged Manipur. Addressing the nation from the ramparts of the Red Fort, the Prime Minister also expressed confidence India would become a developed nation by 2047.

On the occasion of India's 77th Independence Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered a comprehensive speech from Delhi's iconic Red Fort, paying homage to the sacrifices made by those who fought for the nation's freedom. In a speech spanning over 90 minutes, PM Modi discussed a range of topics, including India's resilience, its commitment to growth, and its vision for the future.

Notably, Prime Minister Modi underscored India's commitment to "women-led development," highlighting the government's initiatives to uplift women in various spheres. He also emphasized the ongoing efforts to alleviate poverty and the impressive growth of India's middle class.

Mr. Modi expressed solidarity with Manipur, a state currently grappling with violence and social unrest. He affirmed the government's support for the state and stressed the significance of finding a peaceful resolution to the situation.

Addressing the nation, the Prime Minister remarked, "Our decisions and sacrifices in this period will impact the next 1000 years." He reaffirmed his belief in India's progress, with a focus on the country's demographic diversity, democratic values, and its potential to fulfill its dreams.

He highlighted India's role on the global stage, especially in technology and innovation. The Prime Minister applauded the contributions of individuals from tier 2 and tier 3 cities, who are making their mark in various fields, including start-ups. He reiterated that India's strength lies in its trustworthiness, both in terms of people's trust in the government and the international community's trust in India's capabilities.

In light of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, PM Modi acknowledged the emergence of a new world order. He spoke about the significance of holistic healthcare, the global recognition of practices like Yoga and Ayush, and the evolving geopolitical landscape in the post-pandemic era.

The Prime Minister highlighted the government's commitment to eradicating corruption and ensuring welfare for all citizens. He shared accomplishments, such as lifting over 13.5 crore people out of poverty and propelling them into the neo-middle and middle classes.

PM Modi expressed his optimism for India's economic future, announcing the launch of the "Vishwakarma Yojana" aimed at supporting workers, and confidently stated that India would become the third-largest global economy in the next five years.

As his final Independence Day speech before the 2024 polls, Prime Minister Modi conveyed a strong message of unity, growth, and shared responsibility. He concluded his address with a promise to continue reporting the country's achievements from the Red Fort on future Independence Days.