New Delhi: In his 79th Independence Day speech from the Red Fort on Friday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced the launch of the ₹1 lakh crore Pradhan Mantri Viksit Bharat Rojgar Yojana, aimed at creating nearly 3.5 crore new jobs for the country’s youth.

“My country’s youth, today is 15th August, and on this very day, we are launching a scheme worth Rs 1 lakh crore for the youth of our country. From today, the Pradhan Mantri Viksit Bharat Rojgar Yojana is being implemented... Under this scheme, young men and women getting their first job in the private sector will receive Rs 15,000 from the government. Companies that create more employment opportunities will also be given incentive amounts. The Pradhan Mantri Viksit Bharat Rojgar Yojana will create nearly 3.5 crore new employment opportunities for the youth,” Modi said during his Independence Day 2025 speech.

The PM Modi speech, delivered as part of his Naya Bharat theme speech, also unveiled next-generation reforms in the Goods and Services Tax (GST), to be rolled out by Diwali, providing “substantial” tax relief to the common man and benefiting small and medium enterprises.

“We have discussed with states, and we will usher in next-generation GST reforms by Diwali, which will be a Diwali gift for citizens. Tax on items for the common man will be reduced substantially. Our MSMEs will benefit hugely. Daily-use items will become cheaper, which will also strengthen our economy,” Modi said.

GST, which replaced a host of central and state levies, was implemented on July 1, 2017. A Group of Ministers comprising state finance ministers is currently working on rate rationalisation and a possible reduction in tax slabs.

Flying Officer Rashika Sharma assisted the Prime Minister in hoisting the flag, after which flower petals were showered from two Mi-17 helicopters of the Indian Air Force - one carrying the national flag and the other 'Operation Sindoor' flag. Wing Commander Vinay Poonia and Wing Commander Aditya Jaiswal piloted the aircraft.

PM Modi was received at the Red Fort by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, MoS Sanjay Seth, and the Chiefs of the three services.

The Prime Minister also received the ceremonial guard of honour by the National Flag Guard, the Indian Air Force, Army, Navy, and Delhi Police, totalling up to 128 people. Wing Commander Arun Nagar led the inter-services guard of honour.

Ahead of reaching the Red Fort, Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Rajghat in the national capital and paid tribute to Mahatma Gandhi as the country marked its 79th Independence Day.

This year's celebrations carry the theme 'Naya Bharat,' reflecting the government's vision of achieving 'Viksit Bharat' by 2047. Upon his arrival at the Red Fort, the Prime Minister will be received by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, MoS Defence Sanjay Seth and Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh.