Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered a record-breaking 103-minute address at the Red Fort on 15th August 2025, outlining pivotal reforms and ambitious initiatives aimed at transforming India’s socio-economic landscape.

Delivering the longest Independence Day speech, the Prime Minister captivated the nation with a vision for the coming decades. His address invoked aspirations of national unity, economic progress, and technological advancement, inspiring hope and discussion among citizens across the country. Amid this vision, he introduced bold measures aimed at boosting security, reforming taxation, creating jobs, managing demographic shifts, and expanding clean energy.

The Prime Minister’s address, marking his twelfth consecutive Independence Day speech, drew both high praise and sharp criticism from across the political spectrum.

Key Announcements at a Glance

In his extensive address, Prime Minister Modi outlined several transformative initiatives aimed at shaping India’s future across multiple sectors. These steps are designed to strengthen the country’s foundation while ensuring inclusive growth for all citizens. Below are the key announcements that highlight the government’s roadmap for progress:

• Mission Sudarshan Chakra for national security.
• GST reform with two slabs: 5% and 18%.
• ₹1 lakh crore urban employment scheme.
• High-Powered Demography Mission.
• Tenfold increase in nuclear energy capacity by 2047.

Mission Sudarshan Chakra: Revamping National Security

In the wake of recent security threats, Prime Minister Modi announced the launch of “Mission Sudarshan Chakra,” a comprehensive, multi-agency initiative set to fortify India’s borders and counter external infiltration over the next decade. The plan, to be executed by 2035, will leverage advanced surveillance technology, rapid-response units, and international cooperation.

Modi made a direct reference to recent terrorist attacks and asserted, “Blood and water will not flow together,” signalling a resolute stance against cross-border terrorism and indicating potential diplomatic shifts, such as reviewing the Indus Water Treaty. Union Home Minister Amit Shah praised the move, stating, “India’s defence is more integrated, vigilant, and future-ready than ever before”.

GST Reforms: A Diwali Gift for Small Businesses

A major highlight of the address was the announcement of next-generation Goods and Services Tax (GST) reforms, which Modi described as a “Diwali gift” for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). These reforms promise a simplified compliance regime, faster refunds, and reduced paperwork, an overhaul aimed at boosting entrepreneurship and economic activity.

“Ease of doing business is not just our motto, it’s a national imperative,” Modi stated, inviting MSME owners across the nation to take full advantage of the revised framework. Industry associations have welcomed the announcement, forecasting renewed vigour in the post-pandemic economic recovery.

PM Modi announced that the GST system will be simplified into just two tax slabs, 5% and 18%. This reform will remove the existing 12% and 28% slabs, significantly easing the tax burden on a wide range of goods and services, especially benefiting small businesses and consumers alike.

Urban Employment Scheme and High-Powered Demography Mission

The Prime Minister unveiled a fresh ₹1 lakh crore Rozgar Yojana, specifically targeting urban youth, university graduates, and those left jobless by automation or pandemic-related disruptions. The employment guarantee scheme seeks to address growing joblessness by supporting start-ups, vocational training and local enterprises in over 100 major cities. Policy analysts hailed it as a “bold acknowledgement” of structural challenges in the job market.

Modi also announced the creation of a High-Powered Demography Mission, designed to counter demographic imbalances in “priority regions” affected by illegal migration and infiltration. The mission will coordinate data-driven planning, enhance border management, and empower local authorities to safeguard India’s social fabric.

Under the Pradhan Mantri Viksit Bharat Rozgar Yojana announced by PM Modi, every individual getting their first private sector job post-graduation will receive ₹15,000 from the government. This amount will be paid in two instalments, contingent on continued employment and participation in a financial awareness programme. The scheme aims to support over 3.5 crore youths in the next two years.

Tenfold Increase in Nuclear Energy by 2047

Pledging to make India a leader in clean and secure energy, the Prime Minister announced a plan to increase the nation’s nuclear energy capacity by ten times by 2047, aligning with his “Viksit Bharat” (Developed India) vision.

This transition aims to curb carbon emissions, reduce reliance on fossil fuels, and propel India into the ranks of advanced economies. The nuclear push will be supported by international technology partnerships and indigenous research.

Other Key Announcements

Additional declarations included: bolstering agricultural productivity, climate adaptation funds for states, expanded digital public infrastructure, women’s entrepreneurship incentives, and enhanced welfare for armed forces veterans.

Modi reiterated his government’s commitment to unity, peace, and the welfare of every Indian, declaring, “We are one people, bound together by our Constitution, our dreams, and our destiny”.

The Logical Indian’s Perspective

While the speech marked a watershed moment in ambition, its fulfilment rests on collaborative governance, social harmony, and transparent implementation.

At The Logical Indian, we applaud bold leadership but urge all stakeholders to hold promises accountable through dialogue and action.

As India steps towards 2047, what reforms do you believe are most vital for a just, peaceful, and equitable nation? Join the conversation and shape the country’s future.