Energy security, Make In India, AI push: PM's big talking points in I-Day speech

Download AppNewsIndiaEnergy security, Make In India, AI push: PM's big talking points in I-Day speech Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the nation from the Red Fort on India's 80th Independence Day. The ceremony also featured the first rendering of Vande Mataram at the complex, while his speech focused on growth, technology and national resolve.PM Narendra Modi delivers his 13th consecutive Independence Day address from the ramparts of the Red Fort in Delhi.Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday addressed the nation from the ramparts of Delhi’s Red Fort as India celebrated its 80th Independence Day. This marked his 13th consecutive Independence Day address as Prime Minister. In his speech, PM Modi touched upon a range of issues, from national resolve and economic growth to energy security, artificial intelligence (AI) and manufacturing.This year’s Independence Day celebrations also marked a historic first, with the national song, 'Vande Mataram,' being rendered at the Red Fort complex on the occasion. The rendition was followed by the recitation of the national anthem at the grand ceremony. In his address, which lasted for around 1 hour and 16 minutes, PM Modi also highlighted emerging threats and the need for self-reliance.PM MODI'S TOP QUOTES"It is a historic day. After independence, this is the first time when 'Vande Mataram' has echoed from the ramparts of the Red Fort.""Today, we are all celebrating the 80th Independence Day. Today, the chant of 'Vande Mataram' resonates in every heart. Today, the Tricolour flies in every home and dwells in every mind; the nation is moving forward with enthusiasm and zeal, embracing new resolutions.""Armed Naxals are gone, but 'intellectual Naxals' are still lurking; we must be vigilant.""War is no longer just fought along borders; it is now also taking place in sectors like banking, infrastructure, refineries.""With the rapid advancement of AI, India is set to train 1 crore young people in AI skills next year, so they can lead in the global AI sector.""Over the past 12 years, countless citizens – whether Dalits, the downtrodden, the marginalised, or tribals; whether rural or urban dwellers; the poor or the middle class; youth or the elderly; women or men; from the North, South, East, or West – have all strived in every possible way, with unwavering resolve and dedication, to propel the nation to new heights. I respectfully acknowledge these efforts.""A nation becomes great and achieves its goals when it moves forward driven by its dreams, its resolve, and its inherent strength. Small dreams will no longer suffice. We must dream big, for big dreams expand our thinking and broaden the horizons of our vision. Our resolve must be steadfast; when our resolve is firm, the capacity to carve a path forward—even amidst difficulties and disasters—naturally emerges.""In the last 12 years, defence production has increased by four times; production by Khadi and Gramudyog has increased five times; electronics manufacturing has grown by seven times. Mobile phone production has increased by 33%, and digital transactions have grown by 100%."Emphasising the importance of self-reliance for India, PM Modi said, "Over the past few years, our conviction has been that India should no longer live in dependence on other nations; we must become self-reliant... We must enhance our own capacities and safeguard our interests ourselves. With this resolve, we are moving forward firmly towards an 'Atmanirbhar Bharat.' Every Indian is connecting with initiatives like 'Make in India,' 'Swadeshi', and 'Local for Local.'""In today’s digital world and technological landscape, we understand the immense importance of chips. Whether it is electronic goods, medical equipment, or transportation systems, chips are indispensable; without them, the world would come to a standstill. India has moved towards self-reliance in this sector; three major semiconductor plants have already been established, and I have been informed that production from these facilities has already begun for export. In the coming 7–8 years, five to eight additional semiconductor plants are set to commence operations very soon.""The country gained independence – independence accompanied by many dreams. Yet, we failed to pick up pace or gather momentum. We remained mired in an attitude of 'hoti hai,' 'chalti hai,' 'ho jaega,' or 'dekha jaega.' By 2014, the entire world had relegated us to the ranks of the "Fragile Five." Amidst that, over the last 12 years, India has gathered new momentum. We are surging ahead rapidly, and the resolve of our 1.4 billion citizens is such that nothing can now halt our collective determination and capability."- Ends(With inputs from agencies)Published On: Aug 15, 2026 09:08 IST