Independence Day 2024: August 15, 2024, marked the 78th anniversary of India’s Independence Day. Prime Minister Narendra Modi spent the day in the historic Red Fort as he presented his 11th consecutive Independence Day speech. The theme this year is ‘Viksit Bharat @ 2047’, which comes out as the aspiration of the government in taking India towards a developed nation status by the centenary of its independence.
Flag Hoisting Highlights
The function started with the Prime Minister being received by the top officials of the administration and the military. Guard of Honour this time was presented by the armed and manned Indian Navy, which lent an air of formality to the proceedings. PM Modi hoisted the national flag to the 21-gun salute given by the 1721 Field Battery by means of indigenous 105mm Light Field Guns; this was the high point of the event.
PM Modi reminisced in the speech about the reforms and developments his government has initiated. He brought out, “It is not temporary needs or political compulsions that provide the drive to reform but an enduring determination to strengthen the nation.” “We were given a huge responsibility, and we introduced major reforms on the ground,” Modi said. He said that the reform measures are an outline of growth and inducted for the realization of the aspirations of the poor and the middle class, as well as energetic youth.
Reforming Justice
The bulk of PM Modi’s speech is a list of recent achievements and reforms. While mentioning the new criminal law, that is, Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita 2023, he asserted that it focuses more on justice than punishment. Such reforms, PM Modi added, bring their justice system closer to an equanimous legal regime.
The Prime Minister has also welcomed the progress in the space sector, noting that with hundreds of start-ups involved in launching satellites and rockets, the private sector is now rising. This fact underscores India’s growing capacity in space technology and innovation.
Empowering Women
PM Modi’s speech also touted the prowess of women empowerment. In a decade, 10 crore women have joined self-help groups, contributing to their economic and social status. PM Modi added that the groups received 9 lakh crores in funding, an indication of the government’s commitment towards resourcing their enhanced roles in decision-making and bringing about social change.
At the same time, in the light of further underlining economic reforms, Modi showed much appreciation towards the sea change in the banking sector. He observed that today, Indian banks joined the league of the strongest in the world, which in itself speaks for the strength and resilience of the financial system.
The speech of Prime Minister Modi was comprehensive in showing the vision that the Government prescribed for India’s future. PM Modi reiterated the aim of ‘Viksit Bharat @ 2047’ by highlighting currently ongoing reforms and achievements to further unite the country in terms of development and prosperity. His address not only commemorated India’s journey since independence but also presented a clear way out for the country’s continued growth and progress.
