Democracy, demography and diversity key strengths, says Prime Minister in I-Day speech

Addressing the nation for the 10th time since 2014 from the ramparts of Red Fort on Independence Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said the democracy, demography and diversity of India were formidable strengths and the country is moving at a rapid pace toward becoming a developed nation by 2047.

The Prime Minister also assured the country that the situation in Manipur and other violence-hit areas was returning to peace and normalcy. He slammed his political opponents on the issues of dynasty politics, corruption and appeasement and underlined that he will be back at Red Fort next year after the 2024 general elections on the strengths of his honest intent, transparency and delivery of promises.

"The dreams are many, the resolutions and policies are clear. There is no question mark on the intent. But we have to accept some realities and deal with them," Modi said in his 90-minute speech. "Today, I have come to seek your help and blessings from Red Fort. In the last few years I have understood the needs and aspirations of the country... In the golden age of independence, in 2047, when the country will celebrate 100 years of independence, the tricolour of India flying should be of a developed India."


He underlined the growing clout of India as a leader of the Global South on the world stage and stated the significance of the G20 presidency.

Young population a big advantage
"Today we have demography, democracy and diversity," he said. "This trinity has the potential to make every dream of India come true. Today, the (average) age of countries in the whole world is increasing while India is moving energetically towards youth. It is a period of great pride that today the population under the age of 30 is the highest anywhere in the world."

This strength and brains of those below 30 can help the country achieve results, he added.

After speaking in Parliament on the situation in Manipur during the reply to the no-confidence motion, Modi mentioned the issue again on Independence Day.

"For the last few weeks, in the Northeast, especially in Manipur, as also in some other parts of India, but especially in Manipur, many people have lost their lives, the honour of mothers and daughters was harmed. But in the last few days there are regular reports of peace," he said. "The nation is with the people of Manipur. The country should take forward the peace that the people of Manipur have maintained for the last few days. The path to a solution will emerge only through peace. And the state and the central government together are trying their best to solve these problems and will continue to do so."

The Prime Minister also took on the Opposition in his last Independence Day speech before the next general elections.

'Corruption cripples systems'
"Corruption, dynasty politics and appeasement have caused great misfortune to the country," Modi said. "If the dreams have to be fulfilled, the resolutions have to be crossed, then it is the need of the hour to fight the three evils face to face."

Corruption, he maintained, is at the root of all the problems in the country as it - like a termite - has crippled systems and capabilities. He said fighting this scourge is his lifelong commitment.