PM Modi's Independence day speech highlights: Women's safety, Bangladesh crisis, and more

India is celebrating its 78th Independence Day on Thursday (August 15), and as per tradition, the nation's Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressedthe country from the ramparts of the famous Red Fort. This markedhis 11th consecutive Independence Day address.

In his speech, he touched on various topics of national importance, including the Bangladesh crisis, frequent natural disasters, Viksit Bharat, and women's safety. Here are some highlights from the Prime Minister's address:

Natural disasters

"This year and for the past few years, due to natural calamity, our concerns have been mounting. Several people have lost their family members, and property in natural calamity; the nation too has suffered losses. Today, I express my sympathy to all of them and assure them that this nation stands with them in this hour of crisis," PM Modi said.

Womenempowerment and safety

"In last 10 years, 10 crore women joined women self-help groups. 10 crore women are becoming financially independent. When women become financially independent they become part of the decision-making system in a household leading to social change...Till now, 9 lakh crores have been given to self-help groups in the country," PM said.

"For working women, maternity leave has been increased from 12 weeks to 26 weeks. We not only just respect women, we not only take decisions for her sensitively, we make decisions to ensure that the government does not become a hindrance in the requirements of the mother to make her child a quality citizen," he continued.

PM Modi also spoke on the matter of womensafety amid the ongoing Kolkata rape case. "...I would like to express my pain once again, from the Red Fort today. As a society, we will have to think seriously about the atrocities against women that are happening - there is outrage against this in the country. I can feel this outrage. The country, society, and State Governments will have to take this seriously. Speedy investigation of crimes against women, those executing these monstrous deeds be awarded strict punishment at the earliest - this is important to instil confidence in society," he said.

"I would also like to say that when rapes and incidents of atrocities on women occur, it is widely discussed. But when a person of such monstrous tendency is punished, it is not seen in news but restricted to a corner. It is the need of the hour, that extensive discussion on those receiving punishment be held so that those committing this sin understand that this leads to hanging. I think it is very important to instil this fear," the PM added.

'Space is important'

"The space sector is an important aspect. We have done many reforms in this sector. Today, many startups are entering this sector. The space sector which is becoming vibrant is an essential element towards making India a powerful nation. We are focusing and giving strength to this sector with a long-term idea."

Idea of 'Viksit Bharat'

"For Viksit Bharat 2047, we invited suggestions from the countrymen. The many suggestions we received reflect the dreams and aspirations of our citizens. Some people suggested making India the skill capital, some others said that India should be made a manufacturing hub and the country must become self-reliant," said PM Modi.

"Reforms in governance and justice system, creation of greenfield cities, capacity building, India’s space station - these are the aspirations of the citizens….When the people of the nation have such big dreams, it takes our self-confidence to newer heights and we become more resolute," the Indian Prime Minister added.

Bangladesh unrest

"As a neighbouring country, I can understand the concern regarding whatever has happened in Bangladesh. I hope that the situation there gets normal at the earliest. The concerns of 140 crore countrymen to ensure the safety of Hindus and minorities there - India always wants our neighbouring countries to walk the path of prosperity and peace. We are committed to peace...In the days to come, we will continue to wish well for Bangladesh in its 'Vikas Yatra' because we think about the welfare of humankind."

Need for a Secular Civil Code in the country

PM Narendra Modi said, "Supreme Court has held discussions regarding the Uniform Civil Code again and again, it has given orders several times. A large section of the country believes - and it is true, that the Civil Code that we are living with is a Communal Civil Code in a way...I would say that it is the need of the hour that there be a Secular Civil Code in the country...only then would we be free of discrimination based on religion..."

(With inputs from agencies)