Prime Minister Narendra Modi called for making India as a manufacturing hub with a goal of zero defect production and no adverse effect on environment. He asked people to come together and think of ways that India does not need to import but export products to the world.
The Prime Minister said products with 'Made in India' tag should become a global brand. Giving the slogan 'come, make in India', he invited global investors to set up manufacturing units in India.
He said they can invest in a wide range of areas including electrical, electronics, chemicals, pharmaceuticals, satellite and submarine. Mr. Modi said time has come for a digital India where broadband is used for education in rural areas and tele-medicines for the poor.
Recalling the sacrifices made by generations for the independence of the country the Prime Minister Narendra Modi said the nation was built by the farmers, the youth, teachers and scientists and not by the politicians. He stated that it is only in India that a man from humble origin can reach its pinnacle and stand under the flag at the ramparts of Red Fort.
He said, he is addressing the nation as a prime servant and not as a Prime Minister. He acknowledged the contribution of all previous Prime Ministers, Central and State Governments in nation building.
Mr. Modi said that Independence Day inspires the people to take the country to newer heights. Seeking cooperation of the Opposition he said, he wants to take the country forward on the strength of consensus not the majority.
Earlier the Prime Minister paid floral tributes to the father of the nation Mahatma Gandhi at his samadhi at Rajghat in New Delhi this morning. He is the first Prime Minister born after Independence to hoist the national flag from the ramparts of the Red Fort.
AIR correspondent reports that in a departure from the past Prime Minister Modi spoke extempore instead of reading from a scripted speech. In an another break from the past, the Prime Minister delivered his speech without a bullet-proof shield at his podium. There was yet another break from tradition as more than 10,000 common people were present on the occasion which is usually meant for VIPs.
