In a powerful address from the Red Fort on the 78th Independence Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted India’s remarkable strides towards self-reliance in defence and its emergence as a global manufacturing hub. Speaking to the nation, the Prime Minister outlined the significant achievements and milestones that have marked India’s journey towards ‘Aatmanirbharta’ (self-reliance) in defence, while also reinforcing the country’s strengthened stance against external threats.
Achieving Self-Reliance in Defence
Prime Minister Modi began his address by emphasizing the transformative steps taken by his government in recent years to achieve self-reliance in the defence sector. He recalled a time when India was heavily dependent on foreign nations for the procurement of defence equipment, with a large portion of the defence budget allocated to importing weapons and technology. This dependence, he noted, limited India’s ability to respond swiftly and effectively to security challenges.
However, under the current government, the focus has shifted towards indigenous manufacturing. The Prime Minister lauded the efforts of the Ministry of Defence and the Armed Forces, who have played a pivotal role in implementing a series of initiatives aimed at bolstering domestic production capabilities. Among these initiatives is the notification of several positive indigenisation lists, which specify over 5,600 items that will now be procured exclusively from Indian industries after designated timelines.
Modi expressed his satisfaction with the results of these initiatives, highlighting the significant progress India has made in reducing its dependence on foreign imports. Today, India is not only self-reliant in its defence production but has also become an exporter of defence equipment to numerous countries. This shift, according to the Prime Minister, marks a new era in India’s defence capabilities, where the country is no longer reliant on others for its security needs.
Record-Breaking Achievements in Defence Production and Exports
The Prime Minister provided concrete evidence of India’s achievements in defence production. He pointed out that due to the persistent efforts of the government, the country’s annual defence production reached a record high of ₹1.27 lakh crore in the Financial Year (FY) 2023-24. This figure represents a significant milestone in India’s journey towards becoming a global defence manufacturing hub.
In addition to the surge in domestic production, India has also witnessed a remarkable increase in defence exports. Modi announced that in FY 2023-24, defence exports touched a record high of ₹21,083 crore, marking a 32.5% increase over the previous fiscal year. This upward trend has continued into FY 2024-25, with defence exports in the first quarter alone reaching ₹6,915 crore—a staggering 78% increase from the first quarter of FY 2023-24, when exports stood at ₹3,885 crore.
These achievements, the Prime Minister noted, are a testament to the effectiveness of the government’s policies and the dedication of Indian industries in contributing to the nation’s defence capabilities. The rapid growth in both production and exports has not only enhanced India’s self-reliance but has also positioned the country as a key player in the global defence market.
India’s Bold Stance Against Terrorism
Prime Minister Modi also took the opportunity to reflect on India’s evolving approach to national security, particularly in the face of terrorism. He recalled the days when India was a frequent target of terror attacks, with incidents that caused significant harm to the nation’s people and infrastructure. However, he asserted that today, India is bold and strong, capable of giving a befitting reply to any threats to its sovereignty, unity, and integrity.
Modi cited the 2016 surgical strikes and the 2019 air strikes as examples of India’s proactive and decisive actions in the face of terror. These operations, carried out by the Armed Forces, sent a clear message to those who sought to undermine India’s security. The Prime Minister emphasized that the nation is immensely proud of its brave soldiers, who serve the motherland with unwavering dedication and selflessness.
Women Leading the Way in Defence and Beyond
In his address, Prime Minister Modi also highlighted the growing role of women in India’s progress, particularly in sectors that were traditionally dominated by men. He noted with pride that women are not only participating in the nation’s development but are also taking on leadership roles in various fields.
“Be it the Army, Navy, Air Force, or the space sector, we are witnessing the ever-growing Nari Shakti (women’s power) of our country,” Modi declared. He pointed out that women are breaking barriers and making significant contributions to the nation’s defence capabilities, as well as other critical areas of growth and development.
The Prime Minister’s acknowledgment of the contributions of women in defence and other sectors underscores the government’s commitment to gender equality and empowerment. By encouraging and facilitating the participation of women in all spheres of life, India is tapping into a vast reservoir of talent and potential that will drive the country’s future growth.
Conclusion
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Independence Day 2024 address was a powerful testament to India’s achievements in defence and manufacturing. His vision of an ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ is being realized through concrete actions and policies that have transformed the nation into a self-reliant and globally competitive force. With a strong and capable defence industry, a bold stance against terrorism, and the active participation of women in all sectors, India is well on its way to securing its place as a global leader in the 21st century.
