Launches Rs 1 Lakh Crore Youth Employment Scheme, Promises GST ‘Diwali Gift’, Vows Water Rights for Indian Farmers
Diplomat Correspondent
New Delhi, (DD): Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in his 12th consecutive Independence Day address from the ramparts of the Red Fort, sent a strong message to adversaries, declaring that India will not tolerate nuclear threats and lauding Operation Sindoor as a landmark military success that “punished the enemy beyond imagination.”
‘Operation Sindoor’ – A Decisive Response
Recalling the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack in which innocent civilians were killed after being asked their religion, PM Modi said the incident shocked the nation and the world.
“Our brave jawans entered hundreds of kilometres into enemy soil and razed their terrorist headquarters to the ground. The destruction in Pakistan is so massive that new revelations are emerging every day,” he stated.
He emphasised that after the attack, the armed forces were given complete operational freedom. “They decided the strategy, the targets, and the timing — and delivered a response unlike anything seen in decades,” he added.
‘Blood and Water Will Not Flow Together’
The Prime Minister reiterated India’s firm stance on the Indus Waters Treaty, saying it had been unjust to Indian farmers for decades.
“Water from the Indus River system has been irrigating enemy lands while our farmers remained thirsty. That will no longer continue. The right over this water belongs to the farmers of India,” he said.
Aatmanirbhar Bharat and Defence Strength
PM Modi linked self-reliance directly to national strength, citing Operation Sindoor as an example of the success of indigenous defence manufacturing.
“Had we not been self-reliant, could we have carried out such an operation? The enemy was stunned by the Made in India ammunition that destroyed them within seconds,” he said.
He urged young scientists, engineers, and professionals to focus on developing critical technologies, including indigenous jet engines for fighter aircraft.
Solidarity During Natural Disasters
Addressing recent calamities such as landslides and cloudbursts, PM Modi expressed solidarity with affected citizens and assured that both the central and state governments were working together for rescue, relief, and rehabilitation.
Honouring Dr Shyama Prasad Mookerjee
Marking the 125th birth anniversary of Dr Shyama Prasad Mookerjee, the Prime Minister paid tribute to the leader’s role in the “One Nation, One Constitution” vision and his sacrifice for India’s unity.
Reviving the Semiconductor Dream
PM Modi revealed that plans for a semiconductor factory were proposed in India 50–60 years ago but never materialised.
“The idea was killed in the womb. We lost decades. But now we are working in mission mode, and by the end of this year, Made in India chips will be in the market,” he said.
Deep Sea Exploration and Space Ambitions
The Prime Minister announced the upcoming National Deep Water Exploration Mission to locate oil and gas reserves in the sea. He also highlighted India’s achievements in the space sector, including the Gaganyaan mission and plans for an Indian space station.
He praised the 300-plus Indian space startups, calling them a “testament to the capability and spirit” of the youth.
GST Reforms as a ‘Diwali Gift’
Promising a “double Diwali” this year, PM Modi said next-generation GST reforms would be rolled out to reduce the tax burden and simplify compliance.
Rs 1 Lakh Crore Employment Scheme for Youth
PM Modi announced the launch of the Pradhan Mantri Viksit Bharat Rojgar Yojana, a Rs 1 lakh crore initiative aimed at generating 3.5 crore jobs. Under the scheme, first-time private-sector employees will receive Rs 15,000 from the government, and companies creating more jobs will be given incentives.
A Festival of 140 Crore Resolutions
Concluding his address, the Prime Minister described Independence Day as a festival of unity, pride, and resolve.
“Today, 140 crore citizens are immersed in the colours of the Tiranga. Together, we will continue to reform, perform, and transform our nation,” he said.(DD)
