PM Modi's I-Day address: Introduces Panch Pran, attacks dynasty politics
Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered the traditional August 15 address from the ramparts of the Red Fort on the occasion of the 76th Independence Day. During his address, PM Modi introduced Panch Pran to fulfill the dreams of freedom fighters by 2047. The five pledges are having developed India, removing any sign of servility, pride in heritage, unity, and fulfilling our duties.
PM Modi wishes on Independence Day
Gun salute by 'Make in India' howitzer guns
The day started with PM Modi visiting Raj Ghat to pay tribute to Mahatma Gandhi. Later, he received the police and inter-services Guard of Honour, and hoisted the national flag at Red Fort before beginning his address. 'Make in India' howitzer guns were used in the ceremonial 21-gun salute during the occasion. During the address, PM also attacked corruption, and dynasty politics.
PM pays tribute to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat
What are PM Modi's 'panch pran'?
Speaking at the Red Fort, PM Modi said that India has to move forward with five pledges. The first pledge is to move towards a 'developed' India, and the second is to remove all traces of servitude. The third pledge is to take pride in our roots, the fourth is the strength of unity, and the final is a sense of duty amongst citizens.
'Corruption and dynasty politics big issues'
The PM stressed that corruption and nepotism are "two big challenges" facing the Indian democracy. "Corruption is eating up my country like termites...I call upon 130 crore Indians to help me fight it," he said, adding that Indians must have an attitude of hatred towards corruption and the corrupt. Targeting dynastic politics, PM Modi called upon Indians to fight bhai-bhateeja & parivarvadi politics.
PM's powerful message against misogyny
The PM laid special importance on Nari Shakti (woman power), and said, "It is important that we do nothing that lowers the dignity of women in speech or conduct." "At home too, the roots of unity are sowed when both daughter and son are equal. If not, the mantra of unity can't reverberate...Gender equality is a crucial parameter of unity," PM Modi said.
'Have to shed shackles of servitude'
Stressing that India must become a developed nation in the next 25 years, the PM said that Indians must "shed shackles of servitude and colonial prejudices" and not seek validation from the world. PM Modi added that he is committed to Mahatma Gandhi's dreams. "Gandhi's dream of caring for the last person...of making the last person capable-I dedicate myself to that," he said.
