New Delhi: In his 79th Independence Day speech from the Red Fort, Prime Minister Narendra Modi renewed his call for self-reliance under the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative, urging India’s youth, scientists, and government departments to develop cutting-edge indigenous technologies.

Emphasising the need for Made in India innovation in defence, PM Modi called for the creation of homegrown jet engine technology for fighter aircraft.

“Today, I urge the young scientists, talented youth, engineers, professionals, and all departments of the Government that we should have our jet engines for our own Made in India fighter jets,” he said, underscoring the push for Made in India jet engines initiatives.

Recalling the recent military success of Operation Sindoor, Modi linked it directly to domestic manufacturing capacity. “Operation Sindoor showcased the marvel of India's military prowess, leaving our enemies stunned and unable to comprehend the advanced arms and ammunition that neutralised them in mere seconds. Reflect on this: without the vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat, could we have executed Operation Sindoor on such a large scale? Our military's strength, bolstered by the 'Make in India' initiative, allowed us to act decisively and fearlessly. Over the past decade, we have taken bold strides to fortify our defence capabilities, ensuring self-reliance and unmatched strategic dominance,” he added.

The Prime Minister also urged citizens to support local industries: “Choose Made in India products, crafted by Indians, to bolster the 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' initiative. Let's embrace this collective responsibility to drive change and transform the world.”

India Semiconductor Mission 2025

Modi also highlighted progress in the India Semiconductor Mission 2025. “We are working on semiconductors in Mission Mode... By the end of this year, Made in India semiconductor chips, made by the people in India, will hit the market,” he said, pointing to growing India semiconductor mission investments and Made in India chip manufacturing as critical to boosting the Indian semiconductor sector.

Earlier in the day, Modi hoisted the tricolour at the Red Fort, where he was received by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, MoS Sanjay Seth, and the Chiefs of the three services. He inspected the ceremonial guard of honour presented by the National Flag Guard, comprising personnel from the Indian Air Force, Army, Navy, and Delhi Police, led by Wing Commander Arun Nagar.