Kathmandu— Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi commemorated the country's 80th Independence Day on Saturday with an address from Delhi’s Red Fort, detailing economic progress and laying out plans for future growth. He highlighted India’s transformation from one of the ‘Fragile Five’ economies in 2013 to a $4.15 trillion economy, while emphasizing the need for self-reliance across key sectors like defense production, technology, and energy. The celebration included events both within India and abroad, with expressions of continued partnership from Russia.

Economic Transformation And Future Goals

Modi cited significant increases in domestic manufacturing—a fourfold rise in defense production and a sevenfold increase in electronic manufacturing—as evidence of progress since his Bharatiya Janata Party came to power twelve years ago. He also noted a 100-fold surge in digital transactions. The prime minister urged citizens to “dream big,” stating that national growth stems from the strength of collective aspirations, resolutions, and capabilities. A key component of this vision is bolstering India’s energy security.

Nuclear Energy Expansion

India aims to achieve a capacity of 100 gigawatts (GW) of nuclear power by 2047, according to Modi. This ambition is supported by the recently passed SHANTI Act, which modernizes the country's nuclear framework and encourages private sector involvement. Currently, India operates 24 nuclear power reactors across seven sites with a total installed capacity of 8.78 GW, including Russia-built facilities at Kudankulam. An additional ten reactor units are under construction, with pre-project activities underway for ten more.

Strategic Partnership With Russia

Celebrations extended beyond India’s borders, notably in Moscow where the Indian Ambassador Vinay Kumar hoisted the national flag and a joint motorcycle ride symbolized decades of close ties. Russian President Vladimir Putin congratulated India on its Independence Day, reaffirming the “special and privileged strategic partnership” between the two nations. Russia's ambassador to India, Denis Alipov, pledged continued support for New Delhi despite external pressures, stating that Russia’s backing “remains the same today and will continue tomorrow.” Trade turnover between the countries has increased rapidly since 2023, driven by Indian imports of Russian energy resources.

Focus On Self-Reliance And Development Areas

Modi stressed the importance of India becoming self-reliant across multiple sectors. He outlined seven key areas for development: manufacturing, agriculture and food production, technology and innovation, connectivity – including high-speed rail – defense production, the green and blue economy (including green hydrogen and renewables), and expanding India’s cultural influence through soft power initiatives like yoga. Modi also announced plans to establish free online coaching networks for students preparing for competitive exams, following recent student unrest and the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.

India continues its trajectory toward becoming a developed nation by 2047, with ongoing efforts focused on economic growth, energy security, and strengthening strategic partnerships.

(With inputs from RT)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.