New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his address to the nation at New Delhi's iconic Red Fort, on the occasion of 73rd Independence Day, envisaged his vision for 21st century India when he unveiled the policy of creating a Chief of Defence Staff as head of the Indian Armed forces.
Here are the main highlights from his sixth straight Independence Day speech:
Chief of Defence Staff
PM announces the creation of CDS
"I announce the formation of Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) to coordinate the action between the tri-services. It will ensure synergy and effective leadership at the top."
Article 370
"The new government has taken an important step in this short span of time. Article 370 and Article 35A being revoked is a step towards fulfilling Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel's dream."
"Our government does not delay decisions. We neither nurse problems nor keep them pending."
Triple Talaq
"We banned Sati, we made laws to prevent child marriage. Why can't we ban Triple Talaq."
"Scrapping of triple talaq will help Muslim women live a better life. The decision should not be seen through a political prism."
Jammu and Kashmir
"The old system in Jammu and Kashmir led to corruption. nepotism and injustice."
"We have liberated the people of Jammu and Kashmir. The spirit of one nation, one constitution has become a reality now. And India is proud of it."
Jal Jeevan Mission: Drinking water for all
PM announces Water for All
"Will ensure clean drinking water reaches every house in the country. The Centre and states will work towards it and in coming years, more than Rs 3.5 lakh crore will be spent."
Population control
"Population explosion in the country will create various problems for the coming generations. Those who follow the policy of small family also contribute to the development of the nation, it is also a form of patriotism."
5 trillion dollar economy
"To some, the target of nearly doubling the size of the Indian economy to USD 5 trillion in five years may seem difficult. But when we have in five years added USD 1 trillion as compared to USD 2 trillion size achieved in 70 years of independence, then this target is achievable."
Ease of doing business
"When their is political stability. when the policy is predictable the world is eager to trade with India."
"The target is to break into the top 50 nations."
Tourism
"Let us make local products attractive. May more export hubs emerge. Our guiding principle is Zero Defect, Zero Effect."
Simultaneous elections
"Concept of 'one nation, one election' is imperative to make the country great."
Also read: PM Modi unveils his vision on Independence Day, reinforces measures for national security
