Independence Day 2023

Context

On August 15, 2023 India celebrated its 77th Independence Day. The Prime Minister (PM), Mr. Narendra Modi led the celebrations with a speech from the Red Fort, New Delhi.

So, let us track the points from speech.

About Independence Day speech:

This year’s celebration is centered on “Nation First, Always First” as part of the larger “Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav”.
Throughout the speech, he referred to the people of the country as "Parivaarjan” (family members).
This was Prime ministers’ 10^th Consecutive Speech on Independence Day.

Highlights of the Speech:

Vision for a ‘New World’ Order:
- PM Modi expressed that a transformative global shift, akin to the Post-World War II era, is in progress after the pandemic.
- He likened India’s role to that of “Vishwamitra,” symbolizing its evolving significance on the world stage.
Launch of Vishwakarma Yojana:
- PM Modi announced the initiation of the Vishwakarma Yojana, aimed at benefiting individuals skilled in traditional craftsmanship, particularly from the OBC community.
Beneficiaries: Weavers, goldsmiths, blacksmiths, laundry workers, barbers, and such families will be empowered through the ‘Vishwakarma Yojana’.
- The scheme will receive an initial allocation of 13, 000-15,000 crore.
Empowering Border Villages:
- PM highlighted the government’s “Vibrant Villages” initiative, transforming the perspective on border villages.
- He stated that these border villages are not just the last in India but the first, signifying their importance.
Dream of Empowered Women:
- PM Modi praised women’s self-help groups and aspired to create two crore ‘lakhpati didis’ (prosperous sisters).
- He advocated for the protection of daughters and emphasized collective responsibility against atrocities.
- Around 15,000 women’s SHGs would be given loan and training for operating and repairing drones.
Celebrating first year of Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav (75 years of Independence):
- The event marked the culmination of the ‘Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav’ celebrations, which commenced in 2021.
Launched Housing scheme for Urban Poor:
- Under the programme for urban poor, they would receive relief in interest rates and loans taken from banks to construct their houses.
- The mission aims to address the urban housing shortage among the economically backward sections, including the slum dwellers by ensuring a ‘pucca’ house to all eligible urban households by 2022.
- The Centre has released Rs.1.48 lakh crore assistance to States for implementation of the scheme.