PM Modi’s 10th Independence Day Speech: A Vision Of Inclusive Development And Empowerment

Srishti Singh

New Delhi, 15th August 2023: In his 10th Independence Day speech, Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted a range of policy initiatives, with a strong emphasis on women-centric schemes, support for the marginalized labour class, and commendation for India’s diverse strengths. Standing at the Red Fort, a tradition for annual addresses, Modi articulated his government’s motto: “Reform, Perform, and Transform.” He underlined the significance of India’s demographic diversity, democratic values, and pluralism as the pillars of strength, referring to them as “the Triveni.”

The Prime Minister’s previous year’s focus on the “panch pran” or five resolves was acknowledged. In this year’s address, he underscored several key initiatives:

**Empowering Women through Self-Help Groups:**
Modi passionately advocated for women’s empowerment, highlighting the government’s forthcoming policies aimed at enhancing women’s self-reliance. An agri-tech scheme targeting women self-help groups was introduced, involving training to operate, drive, and repair agricultural drones. A substantial allocation of Rs. 13,000 to Rs. 15,000 crore has been earmarked for this initiative. PM Modi lauded Indian women’s achievements across sectors, including science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), portraying them as architects of India’s developmental progress.

**Recognition for Chief Justice of India (CJI):**
Modi commended the Supreme Court’s decision to prioritize the use of the petitioners’ or stakeholders’ mother tongue when publishing the operative portions of court orders. The presence of CJI D Y Chandrachud, among other dignitaries, was noted, and the Prime Minister’s acknowledgement was reciprocated with a respectful gesture from the CJI.

**Acknowledging Bureaucracy’s Contribution:**
The Prime Minister also extended appreciation to the bureaucracy for their integral role in facilitating reforms, projects, and schemes on the ground. He attributed the successful implementation of reforms and development initiatives to the active cooperation of bureaucrats and officers.

**Elevation of Tier 2 and Tier 3 Cities:**
Modi observed the rising prominence of tier-2 and tier-3 cities, emphasizing that these urban centres are now receiving focused attention. This focus on Self-Help Groups and the neo-middle class underscores his government’s commitment to enhancing governance in smaller towns and cities that were previously underserved.

**Vishwakarma Yojana for Labor Class:**
Addressing the labour class, especially individuals like masons, cobblers, and barbers, who are predominantly from the Other Backward Class (OBC), Modi introduced the Vishwakarma Yojana. This scheme, set to launch on Vishwakarma Jayanti, is poised to benefit this group significantly.

**Advancements in Various Sectors:**
The Prime Minister highlighted India’s progress in various sectors, ranging from renewable energy and green hydrogen initiatives to modernizing railways and expanding metro connectivity. He also spotlighted accomplishments in space exploration, internet accessibility in rural areas, and quantum technology development, emphasizing India’s forward-looking approach and break from conventional paradigms.

In his comprehensive address, Prime Minister Modi showcased his government’s commitment to inclusive development, women’s empowerment, support for marginalized labour, and technological advancement. The speech underscored India’s strengths while outlining the path ahead towards a progressive and futuristic vision.