New Delhi, August 15: Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the nation on India’s 71st Independence Day today from the ramparts of the Red Fort. In a speech that lasted over 50 minutes, PM Modi covered a wide range of issues from terrorism to triple talaq, and from demonetization to the recent tragedy in Gorakhpur where over 60 children died in a government hospital.
Here are some of the top quotes from the Prime Minister’s I-day speech:
- In the last few days, we have had some natural calamities in some areas of the country. People of India stand with those affected due to natural disasters and tragedy in Gorakhpur.
- We have to take the country forward with determination and resolve to create a ‘New India’. In India, no one is big or small, everyone is equal. Together we can bring about positive change.
- We have to change this ‘Chalta Hai’ (anything goes or casual) attitude and think of ‘Badal Sakta Hai’ (things can change). This attitude will help India. (Also read: PM Modi Vows to Solve Kashmir Unrest by Embracing Kashmiris)
- GST has shown the spirit of cooperative federalism. The country came together to support the move and technology has helped.
- Violence in the name of ‘Astha’ (faith) is not acceptable in India. India is about Ekta (Unity), Shanti (Peace) and Sadhbhavana (Harmony).
- I admire the courage of woman who is fighting against ‘triple talaq’. We are with them in their struggles. I thank the media for raising such issues. (UPDATES OF SPEECH)
- Neither ‘Gali’ (abuse) nor ‘Goli’ (violence) will help resolve the problems of Jammu and Kashmir.
- There is no question of being soft on terror or terrorists.
- Together we will create an India which will have enough housing for the poor, will be free from casteism and communalism – a ‘Divya Bharat, Bhavya Bharat’ (Divine and Splendid India)
- I urge all Indians to pledge to create a ‘New India’ and move ahead on the path of development and achieve developmental goals by 2022.
