India’s 79th Independence Day 2025 LIVE: PM Modi Announces GST Reforms by Diwali, Launches Defence & Employment Schemes
On India’s 79th Independence Day, PM Narendra Modi delivered the longest Red Fort address in history, announcing GST reforms by Diwali, a ₹1 lakh crore employment scheme, and major defence initiatives, alongside strong messages on national security and self-reliance.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivers the 79th Independence Day address from the Red Fort, unveiling key economic, defence, and employment reforms.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi gave the longest Independence Day speech in Indian history on the 79th Independence Day, a record-breaking 103 minutes long, from the Red Fort. PM Modi announced significant policy initiatives in a broad speech, such as next-generation GST reforms that will be implemented by Diwali and lower taxes on necessities.
Important Announcements
Next-generation GST reforms will be implemented on Diwali, according to PM Modi, who also promised lower taxes on everyday goods to lessen the financial burden on households.
The Pradhan Mantri Viksit Bharat Rojgar Yojana is a ₹1 lakh crore employment program that provides incentives for businesses hiring new employees as well as ₹15,000 to first-time private sector employees. 3.5 crore young people are anticipated to benefit.
- Mission Sudarshan Chakra: By 2035, an advanced weaponry system will be developed to eliminate threats and protect public areas across the country.
- Self-Reliance Goals: Demands the construction of an Indian space station and the domestic manufacture of solar panels, EV raw materials, fertilisers, and jet engines.
- Clean Energy Milestone: Five years ahead of schedule, India meets its 2030 goal of 50% clean energy.
Strong Security and Sovereignty Messages
Modi praised the military for their participation in Operation Sindoor, threatening Pakistan with "nuclear blackmail" and stating that infiltration would not be tolerated. Additionally, he declared a powerful mission to combat the demographic changes brought about by illegal immigration.
He claimed that areas that were formerly afflicted by naxalism are now "green corridors of development," giving rise to elite athletes.
Additional Highlights of the PM's Address
- a focus on honouring the linguistic diversity of India.
- An appeal for national fitness due to the rise in obesity.
- support for fishermen, farmers, and livestock keepers, with a commitment to thwart any policy that would harm their interests.
- To promote Swadeshi products, make an appeal to traders.
- Encourage the use of domestic defence technology and social media sites created in India.
President Murmu's Address on the Eve of Independence
President Droupadi Murmu praised India's democratic spirit and paid homage to freedom fighters on August 14. She mentioned programs like Make in India and Atmanirbhar Bharat, infrastructure development, and a 6.5% GDP growth rate. She called for a united effort to transform India into a developed country by 2047 and praised Operation Sindoor as a turning point in international counterterrorism.
