New Delhi, Aug 15 (UNI) Making a strong pitch for 'Atmanirbhar Bharat ', Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday said that Coronavirus pandemic cannot beat India's resolve for 'Atmanirbhar Bharat '.
Addressing the Nation from the ramparts of Red Fort on the occasion of the 74th Independence Day, in his seventh consecutive Independence day address, the PM gave a call for 'Make in India ' and 'Make for world' for an 'Atmanirbhar Bharat ' .
In an apparent reference to Pakistan and China, the PM asserted that Indian soldiers have given a befitting reply to anyone who dared 'from LOC to LAC'.
Lauding the contribution of Corona warriors during the Covid pandemic, the PM expressed confidence of the country tiding over the challenge posed by the pandemic , saying that three probable candidates for Corona vaccine are at different stages of testing in India.
'In this extraordinary time of Corona our doctors, nurses, paramedical staff, ambulance personnel, sweepers, policemen, servicemen and many other people are working continuously round the clock, with the spirit of Seva Parmo Dharma,'the PM said.
He also voiced commitment of the government to hold Assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir once the delimitation exercise is complete.
In his address, the PM also listed out a number of reform measures undertaken by his government which has resulted in a record Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in the country last year.
PM Modi launched a National Digital Health Mission and said it will usher in a revolution in India’s health sector.
On Ram temple, he said that the conduct of people of the country has been exemplary and is an inspiration for the future.
Expressing his government's commitment to welfare of women, the PM said that his government will soon reconsider and determine the right age of marriage for women in India.
Stressing on the importance of cyber security, Mr Modi announced that India will soon introduce a new cyber security policy.
Mr Modi also talked about his aim to turn India into a 5-trillion Dollars economy within five years and announced the creation of a new post of chief of defence staff to ensure better coordination of the Army, Navy and Air Force, along the lines of western military forces.
PM Modi said India is connecting its relations with its neighbours, whether they are connected to it on land or from the sea, with the partnership of security, development and trust.
Making a strong pitch for 'Atmanirbhar Bharat ', the Prime Minister said that it was not just a word but should be a “mantra” for the people.
'In the midst of the Corona pandemic, 130 crore Indians have pledged to build a AatmaNirbhar Bharat. It is the demand of the time that India's contribution to the world increases; for this, India must become 'Aatma Nirbhar'.
'Atmanirbhar Bharat has not only became a word, but a mantra for all Indians.
I am confident that India will realize this dream. I am confident of the abilities, confidence and potential of my fellow Indians. Once we decide to do something, we do not rest till we achieve that goal,'the PM said.
'Becoming self-reliant is essential. A self reliant India is a confident India,'the PM said.
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