Modi’s Diwali Gift and Sudarshan Chakra: Key Takeaways from Historic 103-Minute Address

Prime Minister Modi delivered a historic speech lasting 103 minutes on the ramparts at Red Fort on India’s 79th Independence Day, marking his longest Independence Day address and surpassing the prior record of 98 minutes, set in 2024. A nation that was brimming with patriotic enthusiasm, Modi presented a bold plan for the future of India, warned the world against Pakistan as well as the United States, announced transformative plans for the young and also hailed his beloved Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), celebrating its centennial. His speech, full of energy and determination, addressed crucial questions ranging between national security and self-reliance. He captivated the audience with his blend of determination and ambition.

A Fiery Message to Pakistan and the US

Modi did not mince words when speaking to Pakistan specifically in relation to Operation Sindoor, a military response to the 22nd of April Pahalgam terror attack, which has killed 26 people, mainly tourists. In a salute to the troops in his address, Mosaid said, “Our brave soldiers took on the terror masters beyond imagination. We swung hundreds of kilometres into enemy territory, turning the terrorist’s headquarters to ashes.” Modi said that Pakistan’s “sleep is disturbed” by the magnitude of the devastation and the details appearing every day. Modi was also able to take a firm position on nuclear threats, declaring, “India will not allow nuclear blackmail. Water and blood can’t be a part of the same river.” Modi also affirmed India’s decision to revoke the Indus Waters Treaty and called it “unjust” in addition to a cause of “unimaginable cost” for Indian farmers over seven years.

Looking towards signalled India’s commitment to its livestock keepers, farmers and fishermen despite trade tensions. While not naming US president Donald Trump, who recently put an additional 25% tariff on Indian products, Modi said, “I am a wall against any policies which harm us.” India will not compromise their rights.” Modi’s statement was an explicit response to US demand for concessions in agriculture in the current trade talks.

A Gift for the Youth: Employment and Self-Reliance

Modi declared Modi announced the Pradhan Mantri Viksit Bharat Rozgar Yojana,a one-lakh crore scheme that aims to create 3.5 million jobs in 2 years. As part of this scheme, those who get their first private sector job will receive a salary of Rs15,000 from the government. It is that which aims to make the difference between a free India and a thriving one. “This is for our youth, the backbone of Viksit Bharat,” the minister said in a call to the entire nation to join in the campaign.

The Prime Minister emphasised self-reliance, referred to as Atmanirbharta, as a central element of his plan. He tied the achievement that was Operation Sindoor to defence capabilities, saying, “If we were self-reliant, could we have carried out Operation Sindoor so swiftly? Strength from Made-in-India strengthened our troops.” Modi called on youngsters in engineering and science, as well as departments of government, to create indigenous jet engines for fighter aircraft, insisting that reliance on other nations undermines the national spirit. “Self-reliance isn’t just about imports and exports – it’s about our capability, our strength,” Modi stated.

Technology and Economic Reforms

Modi acknowledged India’s achievements in the field of technology and announced that one of the very premier Made-in-India silicon chips is expected to be on the market before the end of the year; the manufacturing units are operating, and four others have been accepted. Modi urged youngsters to develop indigenous operational systems and cybersecurity tools, in addition to AI technologies, and said, “The 21st century is technologically driven. Countries that are adept at technology can attain the top of their game.” The minister also talked of India’s plans in the fields of electric vehicles (EVs) and solar energy and crucial minerals and announced a National Deep Water Exploration Mission to tap gas and oil reserves.

In a Christmas-themed promise, Modi declared that next-generation Goods and Services Tax (GST) reforms are scheduled to be in place before Diwali by reducing taxes on everyday-use items to ease the burden of families and small-scale companies. “This Diwali, we’ll gift the nation lower taxes and cheaper essentials,” Modi declared, noting that the designated Reform Task Force will modernise governance and help prepare India for an estimated 10 trillion-dollar economy in 2047.

Sudarshan Chakra Mission and National Security

Inspiring himself from Lord Krishna’s Sudarshan Chakra, Modi announced the launching of Mission Sudarshan Chakra, a 10-year-old initiative to create an Iron Dome-style defence system that will protect civilians and prevent terrorist attacks. “By 2035, we’ll expand and modernise our security shield, researching and manufacturing everything in India with our youth’s talent,” Modi stated in a way that made it a symbol of India’s commitment to thwart threats and fight back swiftly.

Modi also discussed the problem of illegal infiltration, especially in areas bordering the country, and accused the infiltrators of attacking the tribal lands and jeopardising the security of the nation. Modi announced a high-powered Demographic Mission to tackle this “conspiracy” to alter India’s demography. He also promised, “We won’t let infiltrators snatch the bread of our youth or endanger our sisters and daughters.”

A Nod to RSS and a Call for Unity

In a momentary note, Modi praised the RSS in celebration of its 100th anniversary, declaring it the world’s biggest NGO and a shining example of discipline, service, and building a nation. “For over 100 years RSS members have devoted their time to the welfare of Mother India. The country is proud of their work,” he said, emphasising their contribution to helping future generations.

Modi declared Independence Day as a celebration of 140 crore resolutions, encouraging citizens to strive for a Viksit Bharat (Developed India) in 2047. Modi paid tribute to freedom fighters and also stressed the importance of national unity, saying, “Every heart is filled with zeal, and our collective strength is forging a stronger India.”