Prime Minister Narendra Modi began his 79th Independence Day address with key themes of critical minerals, energy, national security, and space missions. In the first half hour, he stressed that economic ambition is not possible without research, development, and a forward-looking vision to change global perceptions about India. He called for strength and urgency, saying the country needs change now.
“Aaj critical minerals ki technology ke andar bahut aham bhumika hai, aur isliye National Critical Mission humne launch kiya hai. 1200 se adhik sthano par khoj ka abhiyan chal raha hai,” he said, adding that India aims to be self-reliant in critical minerals.
#WATCH | PM Narendra Modi says, “Today, I urge the young scientists, talented youth, engineers, professionals and all departments of the Government that we should have our jet engines for our own Made in India fighter jets.”
Video: DD pic.twitter.com/FEjtAqvktt
— ANI (@ANI) August 15, 2025
Critical Minerals Mission and Space Achievements
PM Modi stated that India is conducting exploration in more than 1,200 locations under the National Critical Mission to secure resources for future technology needs. “Hum critical minerals me bhi atmanirbhar banne ki taiyari kar rahe hain,” he added.
He highlighted India’s progress in the space sector, mentioning that Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla had returned from the space station and would soon arrive in India. The Prime Minister said India is preparing for the Gaganyaan mission on its own and working towards building a national space station. Over 300 startups are now operating in the space sector after recent reforms.
Technology, Energy, and Semiconductor Goals
Calling the 21st century a technology-driven era, PM Modi said, “It shows countries that excelled in tech have achieved success.” He announced that India is working in mission mode in the semiconductor sector and that Made in India chips will reach the market by the end of this year. He said India aims to become self-reliant in energy by expanding initiatives in solar, hydrogen, and nuclear power. PM Modi revealed that the idea of producing semiconductor chips in India was recorded 50-60 years ago but remained unrealised, adding, “Today’s new India does not just dream it delivers.”
Affordable and High-Quality Production
PM Modi addressed manufacturers directly, urging them to focus on value for money and quality. “Jo utpadan ke chetra me lage hain unka ek mantra hona chahiye, ‘Dam kam, dum zyada.’ Humari har product ka daam kam ho par dum zyada ho,” he said. He emphasised that innovation, efficiency, and quality must define Indian manufacturing. By reducing costs while improving performance, India can increase competitiveness in global markets. The Prime Minister linked this approach to the nation’s goal of economic growth, technological leadership, and self-reliance in key industrial and scientific sectors.
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Swastika Sruti is a Senior Sub Editor at NewsX Digital with 5 years of experience shaping stories that matter. She loves tracking politics- national and global trends, and never misses a chance to dig deeper into policies and developments. Passionate about what’s happening around us, she brings sharp insight and clarity to every piece she works on. When not curating news, she’s busy exploring what’s next in the world of public interest. You can reach her at [swastika.newsx@gmail.com]