NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi while addressing the nation from the Red Fort porch, vowed on his mission to make India a developed nation by 2047. PM Modi said that the mission requires long-term efforts and a strong governing system, but assured that his government would not back out from the project.

The Prime Minister started his speech by remembering the freedom fighters.

“Our farmers and soldiers are the backbone of nation-building. I pay my holy respects to the icons who fought for our independence. I also take this moment to express grief and join in pain with the families of victims of the recent landslide disaster.

India has become the hub for manufacturing while Indian army is feared by some cantankerous neighbours. With determination, the country will achieve the goal of a developed nation soon. We should not allow the monopoly of dynasty rule in India and should anyway eradicate the concept. The country demands the need for a uniform civil code and not something that separates people based on religion"

The Prime Minister also enumerated the achievements of his administration, mostly circling Atmanirbhar Bharat. He also pondered over the grave situation in neighbouring Bangladesh.

“The situation in Bangladesh is concerning and as neighbors we are keeping a close watch into the happenings. The minority Hindu population should be protected in the country and it is also our duty as a neighbouring nation to ensure that they do it."

The Prime Minister arrived at the Red Fort after reaching the Rajghat around 7 am and paying floral tributes to the memorial complex of Mahatma Gandhi. The Prime Minister was received by Defense Minister Rajnath Singh, Minister of State Sanjay Seth and Defense Secretary Giridhar Aramane. The Prime Minister then inspected the guard of honour of the three forces and the Delhi Police. Navy Commander Arun Kumar Mehta led the Guard of Honour.

Security has been beefed up at airports, metro stations, railway stations and bus stations in the national capital. This year's celebration is based on the theme Viksit Bharat 2047. Six thousand people, including farmers and women from tribal groups, attended the ceremony as special guests.