Prime Minister Narendra Modi is speaking to the nation from Red Fort on the 75th Independence Day of India. During the speech, he lauded Olympic medalists and Covid warriors for their relentless work. Modi also reiterated that India should be ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ before 100th Independence Day.
On Sunday, Modi officially announced the National Hydrogen Mission. During the Union Budget 2021-22, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman had announced the mission. Through the National Hydrogen Mission, India aims to achieve 450 GW of renewable energy by 2030.
“Today, we have to pledge to make India energy independent before completing 100 years of independence. India has moved towards electric mobility and work is underway on 100% electrification of Indian Railways with the aim to becoming net-zero carbon emitter by the year 2030,” he said while addressing the nation.
He also announced that the government will supply fortified rice to the poor by 2024. “The government will fortify the rice which it gives to the poor under its different schemes, will give nutritious rice to the poor. Whether it is rice available at ration shop, rice available in mid-day meal, rice available through every scheme will be fortified by the year 2024,” he said.
“Currently, out of the 15 states identified for the ‘Central scheme on fortified rice and its distribution via a public distribution system (PDS)’, five are implementing it in one district each on a pilot basis. Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, and Chhattisgarh have started distributing fortified rice — mixed with nutrients — in their respective identified district.” He further added.
During the speech, Modi also announced that Sainik schools will be open for girl children as well. “Two-and-a-half years ago, the experiment of admitting daughters was done for the first time in Sainik School in Mizoram. Now the government has decided that all the Sainik Schools in the country will also be opened for the daughters of the country.” Modi said during the Independence Day speech.
He also announced that 75 Vande Bharat trains will connect different parts of the country. “The country has resolved that 75 Vande Bharat trains will be connecting every corner of the country in 75 weeks of Amrit Mahotsav of Independence. Today the speed at which new airports are being built in the country, the UDAN scheme connecting far-flung areas is also unprecedented.”
As the COVID-19 pandemic is raging, the ceremony will be attended by few people and will follow strict COVID-19 protocols and safety measures.