Narendra Modi delivers 12 consecutive Independence Day speeches, surpassing Indira Gandhi. Key initiatives include Mission Sudarshan Chakra, GST reforms, and youth employment schemes.
PM Modi Surpasses Indira Gandhi’s Record with 12 Consecutive Independence Day Speeches
Introduction
On August 15, 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered his 12th consecutive Independence Day speech from the ramparts of the Red Fort, surpassing former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi’s record of 11 consecutive addresses. This milestone places Modi second only to Jawaharlal Nehru, who delivered 17 consecutive Independence Day speeches from 1947 to 1963.
A Historic Address
PM Modi’s speech on the 79th Independence Day was not only significant for its continuity but also for its content and delivery. Spanning 103 minutes, it became the longest Independence Day speech ever delivered by any Indian Prime Minister. The address commenced at 7:34 AM and concluded at 9:17 AM, surpassing Modi’s previous record of 98 minutes set in 2024.
Key Announcements
During his speech, PM Modi made several notable announcements aimed at propelling India’s growth and self-reliance:
- Mission Sudarshan Chakra: A national security initiative to expand, strengthen, and modernize India’s defense capabilities by 2035.
- GST Reforms: Introduction of next-generation Goods and Services Tax reforms to reduce the tax burden on ordinary citizens and boost economic growth.
- PM Viksit Bharat Rozgar Yojana: A ₹1 lakh crore employment scheme targeting youth employment and leveraging India’s demographic advantage.
- National Deep Water Exploration Mission: An initiative to reduce India’s energy import bill by exploring domestic oil and gas reserves.
- Semiconductor Production: Plans to produce the first ‘Made-in-India’ semiconductor chips, marking a significant step towards technological self-reliance.
Why This News Is Important
Significance of the Record
PM Modi’s achievement of delivering 12 consecutive Independence Day speeches underscores his sustained leadership and commitment to addressing the nation on this pivotal day. This continuity in leadership is crucial for maintaining national focus and direction, especially during times of global uncertainties.
Impact of the Announcements
The initiatives announced during the speech, such as Mission Sudarshan Chakra and the PM Viksit Bharat Rozgar Yojana, are designed to bolster India’s defense capabilities and address unemployment, respectively. These measures are expected to have long-term positive effects on the nation’s security and economic stability.
Public Engagement
The extended duration of the speech allowed PM Modi to engage with the public on a deeper level, discussing various aspects of national development and future plans. This approach fosters a sense of inclusivity and transparency in governance.
Historical Context
Indira Gandhi’s Record
Indira Gandhi, who served as Prime Minister from 1966 to 1977 and again from 1980 until her assassination in 1984, delivered a total of 16 Independence Day speeches. Of these, 11 were consecutive, setting a record at the time.
Jawaharlal Nehru’s Legacy
Jawaharlal Nehru, India’s first Prime Minister, holds the record for the most consecutive Independence Day speeches, with 17 addresses delivered from 1947 to 1963. His speeches were instrumental in shaping the nation’s early policies and direction.
Key Takeaways from ‘PM Modi Surpasses Indira Gandhi’s Record with 12 Consecutive Independence Day Speeches’
| S.No | Key Takeaway |
|---|---|
| 1 | PM Modi delivered his 12th consecutive Independence Day speech, surpassing Indira Gandhi’s record of 11 consecutive addresses. |
| 2 | The speech lasted 103 minutes, making it the longest Independence Day address by any Indian Prime Minister. |
| 3 | Key announcements included Mission Sudarshan Chakra, GST reforms, and the PM Viksit Bharat Rozgar Yojana. |
| 4 | The initiatives aim to enhance national security, reduce unemployment, and promote economic growth. |
| 5 | The continuity in leadership and policy announcements underscores the government’s commitment to national development. |
FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions
1. Who delivered 12 consecutive Independence Day speeches in India?
Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered 12 consecutive Independence Day speeches, surpassing Indira Gandhi’s record of 11 consecutive speeches.
2. How long was PM Modi’s 2025 Independence Day speech?
The speech lasted 103 minutes, making it the longest Independence Day address by any Indian Prime Minister.
3. Which Prime Minister holds the record for the most consecutive Independence Day speeches in India?
Jawaharlal Nehru holds the record with 17 consecutive Independence Day speeches from 1947 to 1963.
4. What are some key initiatives announced during PM Modi’s 2025 Independence Day speech?
Some key initiatives included:
- Mission Sudarshan Chakra (defense expansion)
- GST reforms (tax simplification)
- PM Viksit Bharat Rozgar Yojana (youth employment)
- National Deep Water Exploration Mission
- Semiconductor production in India
5. Why is this news important for students preparing for government exams?
This news highlights current affairs related to governance, defense, economic policies, and leadership, all of which are relevant for exams like UPSC, PSCs, banking, railways, and defense services.
6. What is the significance of consecutive Independence Day speeches?
It demonstrates policy continuity, strong leadership, and public engagement, reflecting the Prime Minister’s sustained vision for national development.
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