New Delhi, August 15, 2025 – Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the nation on the occasion of India’s 79th Independence Day from the historic Red Fort Delhi, delivering the longest-ever Independence Day speech by any Indian Prime Minister. His 103 to 105-minute speech outlined a bold vision for "Viksit Bharat" (Developed India), touching on youth, defence, technology, self-reliance, and international relations.
Here’s a detailed timeline of the events and key announcements from the day.
Early Morning: Tributes and Arrivals
06:38 AM IST – Prime Minister Modi posted a greeting on X (formerly Twitter), wishing the nation on Independence Day and reaffirming his commitment to a developed and self-reliant India.
07:05 AM IST – He paid homage at Rajghat, placing floral tributes at Mahatma Gandhi’s memorial.
Red Fort Entry & Flag Hoisting Ceremony
07:23 AM IST – PM Modi arrived at the Red Fort, welcomed by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, MoS Defence Sanjay Seth, and top military officials.
07:30 AM IST – The national flag was hoisted amid a 21-gun salute. The moment was marked by a grand flypast with two Mi-17 helicopters showering flower petals one proudly displaying the Tricolour, the other carrying the Operation Sindoor banner.
Speech Begins: A Historic 12th Year
- 07:33 AM IST – PM Modi began his 12th consecutive Independence Day address from the Red Fort, surpassing Indira Gandhi to become the second-longest-serving PM to do so.
Key Announcements and Highlights (In Order)
07:40 AM IST – PM Modi emphasized the need for self-reliance, highlighting India’s growing capabilities in semiconductors, defence, energy, and rural infrastructure.
07:42–07:43 AM – He paid tribute to freedom fighters and Constitution makers, particularly saluting the contributions of women in India’s independence movement.
07:44–07:48 AM – The Prime Minister mourned victims of the recent Pahalgam terror attack and praised India’s armed forces for eliminating terror camps under Operation Sindoor.
07:50–07:55 AM – He took a firm stance against Pakistan’s nuclear blackmail, stating India would no longer adhere to the Indus Water Treaty, accusing Pakistan of exploiting the agreement.
07:55–07:58 AM – Modi confirmed India’s withdrawal from the treaty, vowing to use its water resources for its own farmers and food security goals.
08:00 AM IST – He stated, “True freedom means self-reliance,” and urged India to reduce dependence on foreign trade and technologies.
08:02–08:06 AM – The speech turned to technology, with Modi citing Operation Sindoor as an example of "Made-in-India" success, praising India’s semiconductor mission, and unveiling plans for solar and nuclear energy expansion.
08:09–08:12 AM – The Prime Minister congratulated Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, India’s astronaut who returned from the International Space Station, and shared updates on Mission Gaganyaan.
08:13 AM IST – He announced plans to manufacture Made-in-India fighter jets, underlining the push for a self-reliant defence sector.
09:00–09:05 AM – Two major national missions were introduced:
- Mission Sudarshan-Chakra – a next-gen defence shield.
- High-Power Demography Mission – to counter illegal infiltration and manage demographic challenges.
09:20 AM IST – PM Modi spoke about the successful hosting of the Maha Kumbh, calling it a symbol of India’s cultural vibrancy.
Final Announcements & Conclusion
- 09:16–09:17 AM IST – The Prime Minister concluded his speech after nearly 105 minutes, breaking his previous records.
Key announcements at the end included:
₹1 lakh crore employment initiative – Launch of PM Viksit Bharat Rozgaar Yojana to boost youth employment and entrepreneurship.
Next-gen GST Reforms – Promised by Diwali 2025 to ease compliance and reduce tax burden.
Domestic semiconductor production – To begin by the end of the year, reducing reliance on imports.
New tax cuts and incentives for startups and MSMEs, especially in the space and defence sectors.
What It Means: A Vision for Viksit Bharat
In his landmark address, PM Modi covered every major aspect of governance defence, economy, technology, youth, and diplomacy with the overarching theme of Atmanirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India). The tone was ambitious, forward-looking, and nationalistic, reflecting a clear vision for 2047 when India turns 100.
He also reaffirmed India’s commitment to sovereignty, security, and innovation, while promoting unity and pride in Indian identity.
Conclusion
PM Modi’s 2025 Independence Day speech was not just a ceremonial address. It was a roadmap for the future blending respect for history with a call for innovation, unity, and self-reliance. As India moves closer to its centenary in 2047, this speech will likely be remembered as a turning point in shaping a Viksit Bharat.
