In his 12th Independence Day address, Prime Minister Narendra Modi outlined an ambitious vision for “Naya Bharat” (New India), with a goal of becoming a developed nation by 2047. The address highlighted several key initiatives aimed at transforming the country’s economy, technology, and energy sectors.
Key Announcements from PM Modi’s Address
- India’s First Semiconductor Chip: PM Modi announced that India is on “mission mode” to produce its first Made in India chip by the end of the year. This initiative marks a significant step forward after decades of stalled efforts to establish a semiconductor industry.
- Tenfold Increase in Nuclear Energy: To achieve energy independence, India plans to increase its nuclear power generation capacity by more than ten times over the next two decades. The plan includes the construction of 10 new nuclear reactors.
- GST Reforms: A new phase of GST reforms will be rolled out on Diwali, offering a “Diwali gift” to the nation. These reforms are designed to lower taxes on essential goods and provide relief to small businesses and consumers.
- High-Powered Reform Task Force: To prepare for a $10 trillion economy by 2047, a new Reform Task Force will be created. Its mission is to accelerate economic growth, modernize governance, and reduce bureaucracy.
- Youth Employment Scheme: The PM Viksit Bharat Rozgar Yojana, a new employment scheme worth ₹1 lakh crore, was launched. Under this program, 3 crore young Indians will receive ₹15,000 per month, with the goal of strengthening the link between a free India and a prosperous one.
- High-Powered Demography Mission: PM Modi announced the creation of a High-Powered Demography Mission to address the national security risks posed by demographic imbalance due to infiltration and illegal migration in border regions. This mission aims to protect the unity and integrity of the country.
- National Deepwater Exploration Mission: To reduce India’s reliance on imported fossil fuels, a new mission called Samudra Manthan will be launched. This initiative will focus on tapping ocean resources and will be complemented by major expansions in solar, hydrogen, hydro, and nuclear power.
- Indigenous Jet Engines: Taking on a national challenge, PM Modi called on India’s scientists and youth to design and build Made in India jet engines, drawing inspiration from the successful development of COVID-19 vaccines and the UPI digital payment system.
