PM Modi’s Longest I-Day Speech Yet: Operation Sindoor, Make in India at Heart of Naya Bharat Vision

Operation Sindoor, Make in India, and tariffs were the main focus of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Independence Day address, which turned out to be his longest yet. Speaking for 103 minutes from the ramparts of Red Fort, he surpassed his previous record of 98 minutes from last year.

In his speech, PM Modi highlighted India’s “new normal” in responding to terrorism through Operation Sindoor. He said that the country is determined to become a major player in global markets by promoting products made in India, even as it faces US tariff and sanction threats.

Dressed in a saffron turban, Nehru jacket, and white scarf with saffron and green borders, the Prime Minister recalled the April 22 killings in Pahalgam, where attackers killed fathers in front of their children. He said that immediately after the attack, the armed forces were given complete freedom to act. He saluted the soldiers of Operation Sindoor for destroying terror launch pads in Pakistan and delivering a strong reply to enemies.

PM Modi also spoke about the Indus Waters Treaty with Pakistan, calling it “unfair and one-sided”. He said that after suspending the pact, water once going to Pakistan is now benefiting Indian farmers. Repeating his warning, he said, “Blood and water cannot flow together.” He also expressed sorrow over lives lost in recent natural disasters and promised help from the Centre.

Strengthening Defence and Internal Security

The Prime Minister linked the success of Operation Sindoor with the upcoming Mission Sudarshan Chakra. Inspired by Lord Krishna’s weapon, this defence system will be designed to destroy enemy targets and respond more powerfully. By 2035, major public places like stations, hospitals, and religious sites will be brought under a national security shield.

He also announced a plan to deal with internal challenges, including what he called an attempt to “change the country’s demography”. A high-level mission will address this issue, and he assured that infiltrators would not be allowed to take tribal land.

Push for Self-Reliance

Calling Independence Day “a festival of 140 crore resolutions”, PM Modi placed Atmanirbhar Bharat at the centre of India’s progress. He said that during Operation Sindoor, homemade ammunition and defence equipment played a big role in defeating Pakistan’s attacks.

India is also working on solar, hydrogen, and nuclear energy, the PM said. Solar capacity has grown 30 times in 11 years, and clean energy targets for 2030 have already been reached. By 2047, nuclear power will grow tenfold. He announced a National Critical Mission for important minerals and a deep-sea exploration project to reduce energy imports.

This comes as the US imposes high tariffs on Indian goods and warns of sanctions over Russian oil. The PM said India will continue investing in green energy and essential sectors until it becomes fully self-reliant.

Technology and Tariff Response

PM Modi said past governments missed chances in semiconductor manufacturing, as plans made 50–60 years ago were never completed. By the end of 2025, India will launch its 1st locally made semiconductor chip. Six units are already working, and four more have been approved.

The PM made it clear to the US that he would protect the interests of farmers and fishermen from any harmful policies. He criticised “economic selfishness” without naming US President Donald Trump, who has increased tariffs on India to 50 per cent starting August 27. Modi urged people to support local products with the slogan “daam kam, dum zyada” (low price, high quality).

Independence Day Celebrations

PM Modi reviewed a Guard of Honour consisting of 96 personnel from the Delhi Police, Army, Navy, and Air Force to start the day. The team led by Wing Commander AS Sekhon and Flying Officer Rashika Sharma helped raise the national flag with a 21-gun salute.

Flowers were showered from two Mi-17 helicopters, one carrying the Tricolour and the other a flag for Operation Sindoor. The logo of the operation appeared on invitations, floral displays, and even at Gyanpath. The Chenab Bridge watermark on cards symbolised the vision of a rising “New India”. Around 5,000 special guests, including Special Olympics athletes, international sports winners, and Khelo India Para Games champions, attended the celebrations at the Red Fort.