VK News Today https://validator.w3.org/feed/docs/rss2.html Who is Captain Sonia Singh Chauhan? The army officer who assisted PM Modi in hoisting the flag at the 80th Independence Day celebrations How Aaron Rodgers’ wife Brittani’s constant ‘pass protection’ could affect their marriage? Therapist reveals the hidden risk CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke (centre) and chief spokespersons Saurav Das (left) and Ashutosh Ranka also present. (File photo) NEW DELHI: The Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) on Saturday claimed that its official Instagram account was taken down in the morning and later restored.As the account was allegedly taken down on August 15, the outfit described it as an attempt to “muzzle our voice on Independence Day.”“What a shame that those who oppose CJP chose India’s Independence Day to try to muzzle our voice. We will not be intimidated by such cowardly acts!” the CJP said in a post.CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke also reacted to the alleged takedown, saying, “They took down the official Instagram handle of Cockroach Janta Party. Bloody cowards!”The account was restored later in the day, according to the group.The development comes amid a series of campaigns by the CJP in recent weeks, including its outreach on the condition of government and village schools and protests over issues concerning students and education.It had launched a campaign urging Prime Minister Narendra Modi to address the country’s youth in his Independence Day message, raising questions about unemployment, education and concerns among young people.The CJP had also led a successful protest in Delhi seeking the resignation of then-Union education minister Dharmendra Pradhan over alleged irregularities in competitive examinations and other issues affecting students, with Dipke emerging as the outfit’s prominent face.Join conversationView All Comments →Share your thoughts in the commentsInsightfulAgreeDisagreeSkepticalConcerningPromisingWorth ReadingBig DevelopmentPost CommentBe respectful · TOI community guidelinesDipke founded the CJP in May in response to Chief Justice of India Surya Kant’s “cockroaches” remark, which was reported to have been directed at the country’s youth. The CJI later clarified that he was misquoted and that his comments were directed strictly at individuals who enter professions such as the bar using fake or fraudulent degrees, not at the youth.Get the latest India News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosPM Modi From Red Fort On 80th Independence Day: ‘India Must Dream Big And Move Forward’79 Years Of Freedom: What Do Indians Really Want From Their Country, Leaders And Democracy Now?NALSAR Row Erupts: CJI Raps BCI, As CJP Demands Resignation Of Bar Council Chief‘Why Rockets?’ Jaipur Residents Mock Potholes With Astronaut Protest After Monsoon RainsRajnath Singh Announces Rs 8.75 Lakh Crore Defence Modernisation Push on 80th Independence DayBomb Threat Email Targets Delhi Courts, Airport, Metro Ahead Of August 15; Security Checks BeginCM Vijay Urges PM Modi To Keep Lok Sabha Strength At 543, Opposes Population-Based DelimitationThey Want To Disturb Punjab’s Peace’: Sukhbir Badal Flags Larger Conspiracy After Nanded Attack’The Great Transshipment Scam’: India Among 40 Nations Aiding China’s Tarrif Evasion, Says USUttarakhand Tunnel Landslide: 7 Workers Dead, 1 Missing; Rescue Operations Continue in Chamoli123PhotostoriesRashtrapati Bhavan’s Independence Day At Home reception to serve these 7 dishes from 4 Indian statesIdli to Cheela: 9 ways to add sooji to daily breakfast7 quiet dog breeds that make great companions for familiesFrom lakeside retreats to Aravalli resorts: 5 luxury escapes in and around Delhi for the Independence Day weekendRani Mukerji goes from Sabyasachi saree to power suit as she collects an Honorary Doctor of Letters from Australia’s La Trobe University10 unusual baby girl names with fascinating historical roots10 naturally tricolour Indian foods to make this Independence DayInside Ruhaanika Dhawan’s luxury home: A massive living room, elegant decor and moreWhat happens to your brain when you slowly reduce your screen time before bed? Neurologist answers5 red vegetables rich in fibre: Simple ways to add them to Indian meals123Hot PicksMartin Luther King JrRajasthan UCCDelhi trafficJharkhand protestEast Coast Railway GDCE recruitmentMP Class 10, 12 timetableIran warKarnataka bandhUP NEET UG counsellingTop TrendingOil Prices TodayIndiGo Fight CancelledDelhi High Court Bomb ThreatAmbala Sikh Community ProtestManan KumarVirender Singh BasoyaJP NaddaWeather TomorrowBengaluru RapidoAbhijeet Dipke Meet Kevin Sun, the 17-year-old Massachusetts student who built a dissolvable wireless tag to help recycling plants sort plastic When Sean Penn attempted to spark romance with ex Robin Wright after their divorce: ‘She’s absolutely the love of his life’ “To other countries I may go as a tourist, but to India I come as a pilgrim.”; What he said about how the Indian freedom struggle inspired him and shaped his beliefs Mobile lab brings chemistry experiments to schoolchildren | Nagpur News Finlay Tarling dies at 19: Tributes pour in for British cycling star, exploring the young rider’s career achievements after fatal Volta a Portugal crash Modi says India overcame crises through citizen-first governance and strategic planning. NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday said India had faced a series of crises over the past 10-12 years, including the COVID-19 pandemic and wars in Ukraine and West Asia, but maintained that a citizen-first approach helped the country navigate the challenges.Addressing the nation from the ramparts of the Red Fort on India’s 80th Independence Day, Modi said the country emerged from the pandemic only to confront a tense global environment.“In the last 20-12 years, we have faced many dangers. As soon as we emerged from Covid, there was news of wars that started to arise from Ukraine side and West Asia. An atmosphere of tension prevailed. God knows what all the predictions the predictors made!,” he said.PM Modi also accused some people of deliberately creating anxiety by spreading rumours about shortages of essential supplies during the pandemic.“Some people gain joy in keeping the nation terrified by spreading rumours that vaccines will not be available, petrol, diesel, and fertiliser will not be available in the country. Some people were gaining joy from creating an atmosphere of anxiousness in the country,” he said.He added, “Some people took delight in trying to terrify the people of India and plunge them into worry. Yet, the nation has witnessed how the well-conceived plans of the last 10-12 years are bearing fruit.”The Prime Minister said the government’s response to the pandemic was guided by the principle of “Nagrik Devo Bhava”, under which citizens remained the priority.Turning to development, Modi cited the expansion of piped gas infrastructure as an example of the changes achieved over the past 12 years.“12 years ago, piped gas lines were available in only 70 cities. In the last 12 years, this number has grown to 700 cities. Today, 1.75 crore households are connected to piped gas lines in the country,” he said.Modi also said India had made progress in eliminating Naxalism, while remembering security personnel killed in operations against the insurgency. He said more than 3,500 security personnel had been killed “in order to protect the people”.Join conversationView All Comments →Share your thoughts in the commentsInsightfulAgreeDisagreeSkepticalConcerningPromisingWorth ReadingBig DevelopmentPost CommentBe respectful · TOI community guidelinesFurther, in his 75-minutes speech from the Red Fort, the Prime Minister urged political parties to advance women’s representation in legislatures, calling for 33 per cent representation for women in state assemblies and the Lok Sabha.“Come forward and celebrate the strength and capability of our women,” Modi said, urging parties to “as swiftly as possible” ensure greater representation.He also expressed solidarity with families affected by recent floods and landslides, saying, “We, and the entire nation, stand with them.”Get the latest India News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosPM Modi From Red Fort On 80th Independence Day: ‘India Must Dream Big And Move Forward’79 Years Of Freedom: What Do Indians Really Want From Their Country, Leaders And Democracy Now?NALSAR Row Erupts: CJI Raps BCI, As CJP Demands Resignation Of Bar Council Chief‘Why Rockets?’ Jaipur Residents Mock Potholes With Astronaut Protest After Monsoon RainsRajnath Singh Announces Rs 8.75 Lakh Crore Defence Modernisation Push on 80th Independence DayBomb Threat Email Targets Delhi Courts, Airport, Metro Ahead Of August 15; Security Checks BeginCM Vijay Urges PM Modi To Keep Lok Sabha Strength At 543, Opposes Population-Based DelimitationThey Want To Disturb Punjab’s Peace’: Sukhbir Badal Flags Larger Conspiracy After Nanded Attack’The Great Transshipment Scam’: India Among 40 Nations Aiding China’s Tarrif Evasion, Says USUttarakhand Tunnel Landslide: 7 Workers Dead, 1 Missing; Rescue Operations Continue in Chamoli123PhotostoriesIdli to Cheela: 9 ways to add sooji to daily breakfast7 quiet dog breeds that make great companions for familiesFrom lakeside retreats to Aravalli resorts: 5 luxury escapes in and around Delhi for the Independence Day weekendRani Mukerji goes from Sabyasachi saree to power suit as she collects an Honorary Doctor of Letters from Australia’s La Trobe University10 unusual baby girl names with fascinating historical roots10 naturally tricolour Indian foods to make this Independence DayInside Ruhaanika Dhawan’s luxury home: A massive living room, elegant decor and moreWhat happens to your brain when you slowly reduce your screen time before bed? Neurologist answers5 red vegetables rich in fibre: Simple ways to add them to Indian mealsIndependence Day Special: 7 historic Delhi eateries that have been serving since before 1947123Hot PicksMartin Luther King JrRajasthan UCCDelhi trafficJharkhand protestEast Coast Railway GDCE recruitmentMP Class 10, 12 timetableIran warKarnataka bandhUP NEET UG counsellingTop TrendingOil Prices TodayIndiGo Fight CancelledDelhi High Court Bomb ThreatAmbala Sikh Community ProtestManan KumarVirender Singh BasoyaJP NaddaWeather TomorrowBengaluru RapidoAbhijeet Dipke ‘Haiwaan’ actor Saif Ali Khan stabbing case reaches key stage as court frames charges against accused more than a year after attack, trial likey to begin soon – Report Abhishek Malhan aka Fukra Insaan faces backlash after being accused of ‘body and age shaming’ fellow contestants Antarctica once had a rainforest just 900 km from the South Pole. Fossil roots reveal how warm it was 90 million years ago About 90% of fish found dead along stretches of the Mississippi River were invasive silver and bighead carp, while native species are handling the harsh conditions better RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat (File photo) NEW DELHI: Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) Mohan Bhagwat on Saturday called on people tostrengthen India’s independence by making the country happy, prosperous, and secure so that the country becomes “Vishwaguru”, noting that many people and forces are working against this goal.“We must make the nation happy, prosperous and secure, and ensure that it makes its rightful contribution to the world. However, many people and forces are working against this goal and creating obstacles. Without abandoning our principles, we must face these challenges and work to make India a ‘Vishwaguru’ — a guide to the world,” Bhagwat said at a gathering after hoisting the national flag at the RSS headquarters in Nagpur.Bhagwat emphasised that Independence Day is a matter of pride for all Indians. The Sangh chief stated that if the freedom struggle is traced to 1857, India’s ancestors made sacrifices for nearly 90 years to secure independence.“We feel proud of their (freedom fighters’) sacrifices and are happy that their struggle reached a successful conclusion. But along with this, we must also remember that preserving the freedom achieved through so much effort and sacrifice is our responsibility,” he stressed.Saffron, he noted, represents action, knowledge and sacrifice. “The freedom of a nation is achieved through hard work and sacrifice, and after independence, these qualities help make the nation prosperous and secure.”White represents purity and discipline, while green symbolises prosperity. When sacrifice, commitment, hard work and knowledge become part of people’s lives, society remains peaceful and minds become pure, he added.Join conversationView All Comments →Share your thoughts in the commentsInsightfulAgreeDisagreeSkepticalConcerningPromisingWorth ReadingBig DevelopmentPost CommentBe respectful · TOI community guidelinesBhagwat also emphasised that individuals may hold different views, but this diversity reflects unity. “The Ashoka Chakra has many spokes, but all of them emerge from a single central point.”The Ashoka Chakra represents individual and social awareness, with its spokes kept within the limits of dharma, or discipline. “That is why we have placed this Dharma Chakra at the centre of our national flag,” he added, urging people to reflect on the flag’s symbols and incorporate their values into their lives.India will remain an independent nation, Bhagwat asserted, but its responsibility extends further: “This is our duty today” to make the country a meaningful contributor to humanity.(With PTI inputs)Get the latest India News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosPM Modi From Red Fort On 80th Independence Day: ‘India Must Dream Big And Move Forward’79 Years Of Freedom: What Do Indians Really Want From Their Country, Leaders And Democracy Now?NALSAR Row Erupts: CJI Raps BCI, As CJP Demands Resignation Of Bar Council Chief‘Why Rockets?’ Jaipur Residents Mock Potholes With Astronaut Protest After Monsoon RainsRajnath Singh Announces Rs 8.75 Lakh Crore Defence Modernisation Push on 80th Independence DayBomb Threat Email Targets Delhi Courts, Airport, Metro Ahead Of August 15; Security Checks BeginCM Vijay Urges PM Modi To Keep Lok Sabha Strength At 543, Opposes Population-Based DelimitationThey Want To Disturb Punjab’s Peace’: Sukhbir Badal Flags Larger Conspiracy After Nanded Attack’The Great Transshipment Scam’: India Among 40 Nations Aiding China’s Tarrif Evasion, Says USUttarakhand Tunnel Landslide: 7 Workers Dead, 1 Missing; Rescue Operations Continue in Chamoli123PhotostoriesIdli to Cheela: 9 ways to add sooji to daily breakfast7 quiet dog breeds that make great companions for familiesFrom lakeside retreats to Aravalli resorts: 5 luxury escapes in and around Delhi for the Independence Day weekendRani Mukerji goes from Sabyasachi saree to power suit as she collects an Honorary Doctor of Letters from Australia’s La Trobe University10 unusual baby girl names with fascinating historical roots10 naturally tricolour Indian foods to make this Independence DayInside Ruhaanika Dhawan’s luxury home: A massive living room, elegant decor and moreWhat happens to your brain when you slowly reduce your screen time before bed? Neurologist answers5 red vegetables rich in fibre: Simple ways to add them to Indian mealsIndependence Day Special: 7 historic Delhi eateries that have been serving since before 1947123Hot PicksMartin Luther King JrRajasthan UCCDelhi trafficJharkhand protestEast Coast Railway GDCE recruitmentMP Class 10, 12 timetableIran warKarnataka bandhUP NEET UG counsellingTop TrendingOil Prices TodayIndiGo Fight CancelledDelhi High Court Bomb ThreatAmbala Sikh Community ProtestManan KumarVirender Singh BasoyaJP NaddaWeather TomorrowBengaluru RapidoAbhijeet Dipke Independence Day: Gautam Gambhir, Shubman Gill hoist Tricolour in Galle ahead of India’s historic 600th Test – WATCH RRB JE CEN 04/2026 recruitment 2026 begins for 3,993 posts; check eligibility, fees, details and direct link Quote of the day by Cameron Diaz: ‘Discipline is what helps you consciously do things…it is having a strong awareness that your choices have impact,’ a life lesson from ‘The Holiday’ star on how discipline helps us take full agency over our lives First woman from Assam, Northeast India to make history by swimming the 33.5 km English Channel despite freezing waters and strong currents After protest, Delhi school cancels JNU professor’s talk on pluralism at Independence Day event Prime Minister Narendra Modi addresses the nation during the 8oth Independence Day celebrations, at Red Fort in New Delhi. NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday laid out a broad roadmap for building a Viksit Bharat by 2047 during his Independence Day address, outlining seven “shaktis” that he said would drive India’s next phase of growth. The framework, called ‘Shakti Ki Saptadhara’, covers manufacturing, agriculture and food processing, technology and innovation, Gati Shakti, defence production, the green and blue economy, and India’s soft power.Addressing the nation from the ramparts of the Red Fort on the 80th Independence Day, PM Modi also said India had moved from being counted among the ‘Fragile Five’ economies to becoming the world’s fastest-growing major economy over the past 12 years. He linked the country’s economic ambitions with the target of becoming a developed nation by 2047.PM Modi also focused on India’s manufacturing and export ambitions, calling on businesses, particularly MSMEs, to use the opportunities created by free trade agreements. He said Indian products ranging from textiles and machinery to medicines and seafood should reach global markets while meeting international standards on cost, quality and scale.Also read – ‘Every heart is beating with rhythm of Vande Mataram’: PM Modi addresses nation on 80th I-Day – top quotesThe prime minister announced several initiatives aimed at India’s youth, including a plan to train one crore young people in artificial intelligence skills and provide free online coaching for competitive examinations. PM Modi also linked the Viksit Bharat goal to India’s young population, saying the youth would be both the biggest beneficiary and the biggest enabler of the country’s development.Also read – 80th Independence Day: A throwback at PM Modi’s signature Red Fort turbansOn internal security, PM Modi said armed Naxalism had been curbed but warned against what he called “dimagi naxals”. He said such people, whom he accused of retaining Maoist thinking, needed to be “identified, and isolated” so that the country’s youth could be brought together for a developed India.PM Modi also spoke about India’s strategic self-reliance, including defence production, semiconductors, energy and technology. He said India must reduce dependence on external sources in critical sectors while expanding its role as a global supplier and innovation hub.Also read: Key highlights from 80th Independence Day1. ‘Shakti Ki Saptadhara’: PM Modi unveils 7-point roadmap for Viksit BharatPM Modi unveiled ‘Shakti Ki Saptadhara’, outlining seven areas that he said would form the foundation of India’s journey towards becoming a developed nation by 2047.”Today I want to remind you of ‘Sapta Sindhu’. Now, to build a Viksit Bharat, we need a new current. The first ‘shakti’ of the Sapta Dhara is the manufacturing sector. For this, we need to focus on three things: cost, quality and scale. There should be no compromise on quality. This will be our brand value. The second ‘shakti’ is food processing. With the new FTAs, we have access to greater global markets now. The third ‘shakti’ is technology, innovation and digital technologies,” the PM said.Manufacturing: PM Modi said India must become a reliable global manufacturing hub, with companies competing on cost, quality and scale.”From Design to Manufacturing, India must become a reliable hub in the global supply chain. For this, I want to place special emphasis on 3 things. My brothers and sisters in the field of Manufacturing, do not let this opportunity slip away. For this, we will have to meet global standards on cost, quality, and scale,” PM Modi said.He also stressed quality as a core requirement for Indian manufacturing.”When it comes to quality, there should be ‘No Compromise’. Therefore, our core mantra must be: ‘Quality, Quality, Quality’,” he said.Agriculture and food processing: PM Modi identified agriculture and food processing as the second stream, saying Indian farmers should use access created by FTAs to reach international markets.”The second strength of Saptadhara is agriculture and food processing. We must move forward in this direction. The world’s markets are now open for our farmers. Due to FTAs, we are gaining access to a very large market; we must reach it. We must go from the farm to the export market. Our traditional cuisine, millets, spices, and fruits and flowers should become global brands,” he said.Technology and innovation: PM Modi described technology and innovation as the third strength, with AI, quantum technology, space, robotics and data centres among the areas India needs to develop.”The third strength of the Saptadhara is technology and innovation. This is the era of robotics, AI, quantum technology, space and data centres. Emerging technologies are presenting new challenges, and we must become a global hub of innovation,” PM Modi said.”We have already demonstrated our strength through UPI and Digital Public Infrastructure. Now, we must take the next leap in next-generation communication technology,” he added.Gati Shakti: The fourth stream focuses on connectivity and infrastructure, including high-speed rail, highways, inland waterways, airports, multimodal logistics hubs and ports.”Through Gati Shakti, we must focus on seamless, high-speed connectivity across the country. We need to connect cities via high-speed rail, build modern highways, inland waterways, advanced airports, and robust multimodal logistics systems,” he said. PM Modi also called for port-led development.Raksha Shakti: Defence production forms the fifth stream, with PM Modi calling for greater self-reliance and the development of next-generation defence technologies.”The importance of defence capability is paramount in every sense. My dear citizens, achieving Aatmanirbharta in defence is essential; India and the world have realised that there is no alternative. When the world looks out for itself, India cannot merely remain an arms market for other nations,” he said.Green and Blue Economy: The sixth stream covers renewable energy, energy storage, green manufacturing and the blue economy.”The sixth strength of the Sapta Dhara is the Green economy. We must work in the areas of renewable energy, energy storage, green storage and manufacturing. India has an opportunity in the area of the Blue Economy. “PM Modi said the blue economy offered opportunities in areas including fisheries, coastal tourism and ocean technology.Soft power: India’s soft power is the seventh stream, with PM Modi citing yoga, Ayurveda, handicrafts, culture, films, animation, gaming and digital content.”The seventh strength of the Sapta Dhara is India’s soft power. Today, Yoga has connected the world to India. Our Ayurveda, holistic healthcare, handicrafts, culture, films, animation, gaming, digital content. The world is recognizing and looking forward to India’s WAVES summit. We have more than 100 national parks. We have an opportunity to attract foreign tourists through the power of soft power.”PM Modi also said, “India’s soft power is truly immense. Today, Yoga has connected the entire world to India. Yoga is becoming a source of energy for humanity and a major pillar of trust in India. For a country rich with centres of faith, Ayurveda, holistic healthcare systems, and the ‘Heal in India’ initiative, we can showcase our strengths to the world through handicrafts, culture, films, our creative ecosystem, VFX, animation, gaming, and digital content. In the creative world, India can establish its pre-eminence,” PM Modi said.2. ‘Dimagi Naxals’ to be identified and isolated, says PM ModiPM Modi said armed Naxalism had been curbed but warned that people with Maoist thinking remained present in different parts of the country.”For years, people with Maoist thinking were there in public life, even in government committees this thinking had affected various institutions and initiatives. My dear countrymen, we have been able to curb and free the country from ‘hathariya naxal’ (armed naxal). Even if these naxals are gone, but the ‘dimagi naxal’ (people with naxal thinking), are looking for an opportunity, looking to see ways of violence, and trying to drag the country to a wrong path. We need to identify these dimagi naxal, isolate them, and bring the youth together for a developed country,” PM Modi said.PM Modi said Naxalism and Maoism had affected large parts of the country for decades and referred to the deaths of more than 3,500 security personnel.”Naxalism, Maoism destroyed the dreams of lakhs of youth. It stole the sons of numerous mothers, crushed the dreams of numerous mothers. This naxalism had kept a large part of India and population as a hostage for 4 decades with the barrel of a gun, they had destroyed the Constitution,” PM Modi said during his Independence Day address.”More than 3,500 security personnel were martyred while protecting the people of the country. More police personnel were killed than soldiers in war, police personnel had to put their lives on the line so that people can get security. This naxalism had covered the country in blood. In 2014, when you gave us the opportunity we had decided that we will rid the country of naxalism, and today I am happy to announce that naxalism does not have even the strength for breathing,” the Prime Minister added.PM Modi said regions that had once witnessed Naxal violence were now seeing development.3. From ‘Fragile Five’ to fastest-growing major economy: PM Modi highlights 12-year transformationPM Modi said India had moved from being counted among the world’s ‘Fragile Five’ economies to becoming the fastest-growing major economy in the past 12 years.Addressing the nation from the Red Fort, PM Modi said India had faced doubts about its economic strength but had since made substantial progress.The prime minister also linked the economic transformation with India’s goal of becoming a developed nation by 2047.”When the world’s most populous nation sets its sights on becoming a developed country, it sends a powerful message to the world and is reshaping how the world sees India,” he said.PM Modi said India was moving ahead with greater speed and confidence and cited growth in several sectors. He said defence production had increased four times, electronic manufacturing seven times, modern railway coach production 21 times, internet users four times and digital transactions 100 times over the period cited by him.PM Modi also spoke about India’s semiconductor push, saying the country had already begun production at three semiconductor plants and that additional plants were expected to come up in the coming years.4. MSMEs urged to use FTAs to take Indian products to global marketsPM Modi called on India’s micro, small and medium enterprises to use opportunities created by free trade agreements and expand the global reach of Indian products.”We have to reach the world. Everything that India produces should reach the world market,” Modi said, adding that sectors such as textiles, machinery and pharmaceuticals have significant potential to expand their global footprint.PM Modi said India had signed FTAs with around 40 countries since 2014 and that the agreements had opened new opportunities for domestic businesses, particularly MSMEs.He cited textiles, machinery, medicines, fisheries and seafood as sectors that could expand their presence in global markets. PM Modi also referred to India’s textile industry from Ludhiana to Tirupur and called for greater global representation for Indian products.The prime minister stressed that Indian companies would have to meet international standards to compete in global markets.PM Modi also set out broader ambitions for Indian companies, asking why India should not have 50 companies in the Fortune 500 in the coming decade. He also said India should aim to have an Indian bank among the world’s top five banks and one or more pharmaceutical companies among the world’s top five.”Why shouldn’t India have 50 companies” in the Fortune 500 in the coming decade, he asked.PM Modi said India’s technology companies should become globally recognised brands.”India’s technology companies should be a scoreboard in the world,” he said.5. AI training for 1 crore youth, free online coaching for competitive examsPM Modi announced that one crore young people would be trained in artificial intelligence-related skills as part of efforts to prepare India’s youth for emerging technologies.He also announced free online coaching for young people preparing for various competitive examinations.PM Modi linked the youth-focused initiatives with his broader Viksit Bharat vision and said India’s young population would be central to achieving the country’s development goals.”When I speak of a developed India, when I speak of propelling the nation forward at a rapid pace, the greatest beneficiary and the greatest enabler of this vision is the youth of my country, the youthful energy of my nation. Not only that, but the greatest beneficiary of a developed India is also the youth of my country. Therefore, we must advance the goal of a developed India by linking it with our youth,” PM Modi said.PM Modi also announced plans for a nationwide sports talent hunt to identify and nurture children between five and 15 years of age across villages and cities.He said the government was also working on civil defence reforms, including modernised training and enhanced capabilities to respond to emerging security challenges.”I announce today from the Red Fort that we will establish a vibrant Civil Defence network in the coming days. We will familiarize them with modern systems. What measures can be put in place to protect citizens from modern-day crises? We are going to create a massive, modern Civil Defence volunteer force capable of overcoming contemporary challenges. Today, the contribution of our sisters and daughters to nation-building serves as a great source of inspiration for us all. Whether it is fighter jets or civil aviation, our daughters are at the forefront. Be it the sports arena or STEM education, our daughters are leading the way. Even in the armed forces, daughters graduating from the NDA are demonstrating the capability to lead the nation’s military with great confidence and authority,” the PM said.Semiconductors, nuclear power and self-reliancePM Modi also outlined targets for critical technologies and energy as part of India’s broader self-reliance agenda.He said India had already started production at three semiconductor plants and announced that five to eight more plants were expected to come up in the coming years.PM Modi also said India aims to achieve 100 GW of nuclear power capacity by 2047, with five new reactors expected to become operational within the next six to seven years.On the wider question of strategic self-reliance, PM Modi said the global environment had changed, with countries increasingly prioritising their own interests and critical resources being used as strategic tools.”There was a time when I spoke of self-reliance, and people sitting in air-conditioned chambers would question what would happen to globalization. But the world is witnessing that, over the last decade, it seems as though the global discourse on globalization has ceased; the voices that once championed it are no longer heard. Every nation has shifted towards a mindset of looking after its own interests. Unfortunately, during this period of crisis, some have played the game of weaponizing resources to assert their dominance.Join conversationView All Comments →Share your thoughts in the commentsInsightfulAgreeDisagreeSkepticalConcerningPromisingWorth ReadingBig DevelopmentPost CommentBe respectful · TOI community guidelines The world is busy weaponizing whatever it possesses—be it petrol, diesel, fertilizers, medicines, or technology chips. Even territory is being weaponized. Had we not moved in the right direction for the past ten years, guided by the mantra of self-reliance, one can only imagine how we would have confronted such challenges with strength. And our preparedness continues to grow…”PM Modi said India’s manufacturing, technology, defence, agriculture, energy and cultural strengths would form part of the country’s effort to achieve Viksit Bharat by 2047.Get the latest India News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosPM Modi From Red Fort On 80th Independence Day: ‘India Must Dream Big And Move Forward’79 Years Of Freedom: What Do Indians Really Want From Their Country, Leaders And Democracy Now?NALSAR Row Erupts: CJI Raps BCI, As CJP Demands Resignation Of Bar Council Chief‘Why Rockets?’ Jaipur Residents Mock Potholes With Astronaut Protest After Monsoon RainsRajnath Singh Announces Rs 8.75 Lakh Crore Defence Modernisation Push on 80th Independence DayBomb Threat Email Targets Delhi Courts, Airport, Metro Ahead Of August 15; Security Checks BeginCM Vijay Urges PM Modi To Keep Lok Sabha Strength At 543, Opposes Population-Based DelimitationThey Want To Disturb Punjab’s Peace’: Sukhbir Badal Flags Larger Conspiracy After Nanded Attack’The Great Transshipment Scam’: India Among 40 Nations Aiding China’s Tarrif Evasion, Says USUttarakhand Tunnel Landslide: 7 Workers Dead, 1 Missing; Rescue Operations Continue in Chamoli123PhotostoriesIdli to Cheela: 9 ways to add sooji to daily breakfast7 quiet dog breeds that make great companions for familiesFrom lakeside retreats to Aravalli resorts: 5 luxury escapes in and around Delhi for the Independence Day weekendRani Mukerji goes from Sabyasachi saree to power suit as she collects an Honorary Doctor of Letters from Australia’s La Trobe University10 unusual baby girl names with fascinating historical roots10 naturally tricolour Indian foods to make this Independence DayInside Ruhaanika Dhawan’s luxury home: A massive living room, elegant decor and moreWhat happens to your brain when you slowly reduce your screen time before bed? Neurologist answers5 red vegetables rich in fibre: Simple ways to add them to Indian mealsIndependence Day Special: 7 historic Delhi eateries that have been serving since before 1947123Hot PicksMartin Luther King JrRajasthan UCCDelhi trafficJharkhand protestEast Coast Railway GDCE recruitmentMP Class 10, 12 timetableIran warKarnataka bandhUP NEET UG counsellingTop TrendingOil Prices TodayIndiGo Fight CancelledDelhi High Court Bomb ThreatAmbala Sikh Community ProtestManan KumarVirender Singh BasoyaJP NaddaWeather TomorrowBengaluru RapidoAbhijeet Dipke ‘Avengers: Doomsday’ trailer: Robert Downey Jr establishes himself as MCU’s most powerful villain in EPIC new D23 clip; says ‘Hell answers to me’ 6 hidden things in Indian homes that attract snakes PM Modi outlines Sapt Dhara – seven streams of strength: Key highlights from 80th Independence Day South Korea’s Lee Jae Myung calls for talks with North Korea PM Modi cuts I-Day speech to 75 minutes NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Independence Day address from the Red Fort on Saturday lasted 75 minutes, making it his shortest speech in four years and the fourth shortest of his 13 consecutive appearances at the historic ramparts.The 2026 address was significantly shorter than his 103-minute speech last year, which was the longest of his tenure and surpassed his previous record of 98 minutes in 2024. Modi’s shortest Independence Day speech came in 2017, when he spoke for 56 minutes.The Prime Minister’s 2026 address was also considerably longer than his shortest-ever speech. In 2017, Modi spoke for 56 minutes. His first Independence Day address in 2014 lasted 65 minutes.Over the years, the Prime Minister’s speeches have ranged from under an hour to more than 100 minutes. He spoke for 88 minutes in 2015 and 96 minutes in 2016, followed by 83 minutes in 2018 and nearly 92 minutes in 2019.Also Read: 80th Independence Day: A throwback at PM Modi’s signature Red Fort turbansThe address lasted 90 minutes in 2020, 88 minutes in 2021, 74 minutes in 2022 and 90 minutes in 2023.The 75-minute speech came as Modi delivered his 13th consecutive Independence Day address from the Red Fort. Last year, he overtook Indira Gandhi’s record of 12 consecutive speeches, moving behind only Jawaharlal Nehru, who delivered 17 such addresses in succession.Nehru’s 1947 Independence Day speech lasted 72 minutes, while I K Gujral spoke for 71 minutes in 1997. Among the shortest addresses, Nehru and Indira Gandhi each spoke for 14 minutes in 1954 and 1966 respectively. Manmohan Singh’s 2012 and 2013 speeches lasted 32 and 35 minutes, while Atal Bihari Vajpayee spoke for 25 minutes in 2002 and 30 minutes in 2003.Despite the shorter duration, Modi used the address to set out a broad economic and national agenda. He unveiled “Shakti Ki Saptadhara”, describing seven streams of strength that would drive India’s next phase of development and its journey towards Viksit Bharat.Join conversationView All Comments →Share your thoughts in the commentsInsightfulAgreeDisagreeSkepticalConcerningPromisingWorth ReadingBig DevelopmentPost CommentBe respectful · TOI community guidelinesManufacturing featured prominently in his economic pitch, with Modi calling for a major expansion of the sector. He also placed emphasis on national duty and youth participation.“Let us put country before self; national interest and sense of duty should be our identity, this is India’s hour,” Modi said.He also credited citizens with India’s economic progress, saying, “People’s efforts have resulted in taking India from fragile five to major economy in last 12 years.”Modi further said the capabilities of young people would be harnessed for nation-building, placing youth, manufacturing and economic expansion at the centre of his vision for the years ahead.Get the latest India News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosPM Modi From Red Fort On 80th Independence Day: ‘India Must Dream Big And Move Forward’79 Years Of Freedom: What Do Indians Really Want From Their Country, Leaders And Democracy Now?NALSAR Row Erupts: CJI Raps BCI, As CJP Demands Resignation Of Bar Council Chief‘Why Rockets?’ Jaipur Residents Mock Potholes With Astronaut Protest After Monsoon RainsRajnath Singh Announces Rs 8.75 Lakh Crore Defence Modernisation Push on 80th Independence DayBomb Threat Email Targets Delhi Courts, Airport, Metro Ahead Of August 15; Security Checks BeginCM Vijay Urges PM Modi To Keep Lok Sabha Strength At 543, Opposes Population-Based DelimitationThey Want To Disturb Punjab’s Peace’: Sukhbir Badal Flags Larger Conspiracy After Nanded Attack’The Great Transshipment Scam’: India Among 40 Nations Aiding China’s Tarrif Evasion, Says USUttarakhand Tunnel Landslide: 7 Workers Dead, 1 Missing; Rescue Operations Continue in Chamoli123PhotostoriesIdli to Cheela: 9 ways to add sooji to daily breakfast7 quiet dog breeds that make great companions for familiesFrom lakeside retreats to Aravalli resorts: 5 luxury escapes in and around Delhi for the Independence Day weekendRani Mukerji goes from Sabyasachi saree to power suit as she collects an Honorary Doctor of Letters from Australia’s La Trobe University10 unusual baby girl names with fascinating historical roots10 naturally tricolour Indian foods to make this Independence DayInside Ruhaanika Dhawan’s luxury home: A massive living room, elegant decor and moreWhat happens to your brain when you slowly reduce your screen time before bed? Neurologist answers5 red vegetables rich in fibre: Simple ways to add them to Indian mealsIndependence Day Special: 7 historic Delhi eateries that have been serving since before 1947123Hot PicksMartin Luther King JrRajasthan UCCDelhi trafficJharkhand protestEast Coast Railway GDCE recruitmentMP Class 10, 12 timetableIran warKarnataka bandhUP NEET UG counsellingTop TrendingOil Prices TodayIndiGo Fight CancelledDelhi High Court Bomb ThreatAmbala Sikh Community ProtestManan KumarVirender Singh BasoyaJP NaddaWeather TomorrowBengaluru RapidoAbhijeet Dipke Updated: Aug 15, 2026, 09:59 IST Sunny Deol reveals his UNFULFILLED DREAM which never became true due to father Dharmendra’s protective nature: ‘Kuch bhi aise karna chahe, ijazat nahi milti thi, so reh gaya’ Indonesia earthquake: Several killed, buildings collapse, multiple tremors recorded – top developments PM Modi on 33% women’s reservation NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday urged political parties to facilitate the implementation of the proposed 33% reservation for women in the Lok Sabha and state legislative assemblies so that women can “actively contribute to shaping India’s policies.”He made the call while addressing the nation from the iconic Red Fort in Delhi on the 80th Independence Day.“Today, from the ramparts of the Red Fort, standing under the shadow of the Tricolour, I earnestly appeal to and urge all political parties of our nation: Come forward and celebrate the strength and capability of our women. Step forward in honour of our women, and as swiftly as possible, ensure our mothers and sisters receive 33% representation in the State Legislative Assemblies and the Lok Sabha so that they can actively contribute to shaping India’s policies,” the prime minister said.PM Modi also highlighted the contribution of women representatives in various elected bodies and pointed to the passage of the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam in Parliament aimed at strengthening women’s representation in politics.“My dear fellow citizens, today in Panchayats, Municipalities, and Municipal Corporations, our women public representatives are guiding the nation in very large numbers, solving local challenges, and providing exceptionally capable and empowering leadership. Join conversationView All Comments →Share your thoughts in the commentsInsightfulAgreeDisagreeSkepticalConcerningPromisingWorth ReadingBig DevelopmentPost CommentBe respectful · TOI community guidelinesKeeping this in mind, we passed the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam in Parliament,” he added.However, he noted that “for one reason or another”, in the political arena over the last 40 years, the dream of greater representation for women had “persistently fallen victim to political games and political battlegrounds.”The Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam, 2023, was passed by both Houses of Parliament but has not moved ahead with implementation after the Constitution (131st Amendment) Bill fell in the Lok Sabha on April 17, failing to secure the constitutionally required two-thirds majority of members present and voting.The Bill proposed implementing 33% reservation for women in legislatures and delimiting Lok Sabha constituencies.(With ANI inputs)Get the latest India News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosPM Modi From Red Fort On 80th Independence Day: ‘India Must Dream Big And Move Forward’79 Years Of Freedom: What Do Indians Really Want From Their Country, Leaders And Democracy Now?NALSAR Row Erupts: CJI Raps BCI, As CJP Demands Resignation Of Bar Council Chief‘Why Rockets?’ Jaipur Residents Mock Potholes With Astronaut Protest After Monsoon RainsRajnath Singh Announces Rs 8.75 Lakh Crore Defence Modernisation Push on 80th Independence DayBomb Threat Email Targets Delhi Courts, Airport, Metro Ahead Of August 15; Security Checks BeginCM Vijay Urges PM Modi To Keep Lok Sabha Strength At 543, Opposes Population-Based DelimitationThey Want To Disturb Punjab’s Peace’: Sukhbir Badal Flags Larger Conspiracy After Nanded Attack’The Great Transshipment Scam’: India Among 40 Nations Aiding China’s Tarrif Evasion, Says USUttarakhand Tunnel Landslide: 7 Workers Dead, 1 Missing; Rescue Operations Continue in Chamoli123PhotostoriesIdli to Cheela: 9 ways to add sooji to daily breakfast7 quiet dog breeds that make great companions for familiesFrom lakeside retreats to Aravalli resorts: 5 luxury escapes in and around Delhi for the Independence Day weekendRani Mukerji goes from Sabyasachi saree to power suit as she collects an Honorary Doctor of Letters from Australia’s La Trobe University10 unusual baby girl names with fascinating historical roots10 naturally tricolour Indian foods to make this Independence DayInside Ruhaanika Dhawan’s luxury home: A massive living room, elegant decor and moreWhat happens to your brain when you slowly reduce your screen time before bed? Neurologist answers5 red vegetables rich in fibre: Simple ways to add them to Indian mealsIndependence Day Special: 7 historic Delhi eateries that have been serving since before 1947123Hot PicksMartin Luther King JrRajasthan UCCDelhi trafficJharkhand protestEast Coast Railway GDCE recruitmentMP Class 10, 12 timetableIran warKarnataka bandhUP NEET UG counsellingTop TrendingOil Prices TodayIndiGo Fight CancelledDelhi High Court Bomb ThreatAmbala Sikh Community ProtestManan KumarVirender Singh BasoyaJP NaddaWeather TomorrowBengaluru RapidoAbhijeet Dipke Aug 15, 2026, 09:46 IST ‘No-go’ to ‘go-ahead’: PM Modi hails ‘Samudra Manthan’ for deep-sea exploration in Independence Day speech Amitabh Bachchan recalls overwhelming response to ‘Sholay’ at its restored screening in Italy: ‘Waha par 2000 Italians, raat ke 11 baje se subha 3 baje tak ‘Sholay’ dekha’ ‘Have to isolate dimaagi Naxals’: PM Modi in Independence Day speech from Red Fort CJI Kant said the blockade war must stop, groups must sit together, abjure violence, and cooperate with each other so that the supply of essential commodities and medicines are not disrupted. NEW DELHI: Blockading NHs in Manipur by ethnic groups to inconvenience opponents is common but the Supreme Court on Friday took serious note of the humanitarian crisis such actions unleash after an NGO of Kuki women claimed that blockading of NH-2 and connected supply routes to Kangpokpi has left the population in there without food and healthcare.Senior advocate Anand Grover, appearing for Kuki Women Organisation for Human Rights, told a bench of CJI Surya Kant, and Justices Joymalya Bagchi and V Mohana that the NH-2 and supply routes to Kangpokpi has been blocked by Naga groups creating a crisis for the population and requested the SC to direct the Centre and the state to reopen the NH. “The state just can’t sit and do nothing,” he complained.Intervening in the matter, an Imphal-based NGO – International Meitei Organization – through senior advocate Ngangom Junior Luwang said the Kukis had been “responsible for blocking all major NHs in Manipur since May 2023, after the Kuki-Meitei ethnic clashes began, and now they are playing the ‘victim card’ when faced with the consequences of such blockades by another ethnic group.”“It is a matter of record that since May 3, 2023, members of the community, of which the petitioner is a part of, have been blocking all major NHs in Manipur – NH2 (Imphal to Dimapur), NH-37 (Imphal to Silchar), and NH-102 (Imphal to Moreh) and except for intermittent flow of goods vehicles through extortion rackets reportedly perpetuated by Kuki community,” the NGO alleged.Join conversationView All Comments →Share your thoughts in the commentsInsightfulAgreeDisagreeSkepticalConcerningPromisingWorth ReadingBig DevelopmentPost CommentBe respectful · TOI community guidelinesCJI Kant said the blockade war must stop, groups must sit together, abjure violence, and cooperate with each other so that the supply of essential commodities and medicines are not disrupted. When Luwang welcomed the CJI’s suggestion, Grover immediately offered the petitioner organisation’s cooperation but wondered who would bring the Naga group to the talks.SC issued notices to the Centre, Manipur govt and National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) and said the larger public interest demands removal of blockade of all NHs in the state as well as restoration of supply to Kangpokpi district.It said Grover assured that his client in cooperation with social organisations would work towards the same and recorded similar sentiments expressed by Luwang on behalf of the Meitei NGO. It asked all the parties to suggest modalities for reopening all NHS without engaging in blame games. It posted the matter for further hearing after two weeks.Get the latest India News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosPM Modi From Red Fort On 80th Independence Day: ‘India Must Dream Big And Move Forward’79 Years Of Freedom: What Do Indians Really Want From Their Country, Leaders And Democracy Now?NALSAR Row Erupts: CJI Raps BCI, As CJP Demands Resignation Of Bar Council Chief‘Why Rockets?’ Jaipur Residents Mock Potholes With Astronaut Protest After Monsoon RainsRajnath Singh Announces Rs 8.75 Lakh Crore Defence Modernisation Push on 80th Independence DayBomb Threat Email Targets Delhi Courts, Airport, Metro Ahead Of August 15; Security Checks BeginCM Vijay Urges PM Modi To Keep Lok Sabha Strength At 543, Opposes Population-Based DelimitationThey Want To Disturb Punjab’s Peace’: Sukhbir Badal Flags Larger Conspiracy After Nanded Attack’The Great Transshipment Scam’: India Among 40 Nations Aiding China’s Tarrif Evasion, Says USUttarakhand Tunnel Landslide: 7 Workers Dead, 1 Missing; Rescue Operations Continue in Chamoli123PhotostoriesIdli to Cheela: 9 ways to add sooji to daily breakfast7 quiet dog breeds that make great companions for familiesFrom lakeside retreats to Aravalli resorts: 5 luxury escapes in and around Delhi for the Independence Day weekendRani Mukerji goes from Sabyasachi saree to power suit as she collects an Honorary Doctor of Letters from Australia’s La Trobe University10 unusual baby girl names with fascinating historical roots10 naturally tricolour Indian foods to make this Independence DayInside Ruhaanika Dhawan’s luxury home: A massive living room, elegant decor and moreWhat happens to your brain when you slowly reduce your screen time before bed? Neurologist answers5 red vegetables rich in fibre: Simple ways to add them to Indian mealsIndependence Day Special: 7 historic Delhi eateries that have been serving since before 1947123Hot PicksMartin Luther King JrRajasthan UCCDelhi trafficJharkhand protestEast Coast Railway GDCE recruitmentMP Class 10, 12 timetableIran warKarnataka bandhUP NEET UG counsellingTop TrendingOil Prices TodayIndiGo Fight CancelledDelhi High Court Bomb ThreatAmbala Sikh Community ProtestManan KumarVirender Singh BasoyaJP NaddaWeather TomorrowBengaluru RapidoAbhijeet Dipke India’s big semiconductor push: PM Modi says 7-8 plants coming up; stresses self-reliance in chips Check download steps, response sheet and objection process Brad Pitt is not losing hope over reconciliation with his kids; he’s not despairing about the situation “The mystery of human existence lies not in just staying alive, but in finding something to live for” From Riyadh to Paris: How EWC’s unexpected move accelerated its global plans The Supreme Court of India NEW DELHI: More than 75 years of the Constitution coming into force, the derogatory practice of witch-hunting that targets defenceless women due to prejudice, suspicion, superstition and irrational fear, continues in the country, the Supreme Court lamented while upholding life term for two who murdered a woman in a tribal village of Odisha in Feb 1998.A bench of Justices Prashant Kumar Mishra and N V Anjaria said the facets of the case had a disturbing impact on the court as a defenceless woman was branded a practitioner of witchcraft and was brutally assaulted in front of her daughter. “What effect it must have had on the daughter of the deceased who had to witness her mother being killed in the most brutal way,” the bench wondered.Writing the judgment, Justice Mishra said the malady of with-hunting continues to plague sections of our society, where prejudice, superstition, and irrational dear supersede the rule of law and constitutional morality.“The brutality associated with witch-hunting extends far beyond the act of killing; where victims mostly women are subjected to torture, beatings, sexual violence and social ostracization. In such a situation, superstitious beliefs or fears are given precedence leading to vulnerable women becoming victims of collective hostility,” he said.IN Feb 1998, in the remote village of tribal inhabited Sundergarh district, one Manobodha Naik’s daughter died, and family members claimed that she died because of witchcraft practice of one Puni Naik. Hearing this Udai Oram dragged Puni Naik to Naik’s house and with his associate, mercilessly assaulted her with sticks leading to her death. The trial court had convicted the duo in 2002, but the Orissa HC took two decades to uphold the conviction and life sentence.Join conversationView All Comments →Share your thoughts in the commentsInsightfulAgreeDisagreeSkepticalConcerningPromisingWorth ReadingBig DevelopmentPost CommentBe respectful · TOI community guidelinesJustices Mishra and Anjaria said, “Sometimes in the most difficult situations, it often becomes an easy escape to blame a woman for the acts she did not commit, thus reflecting a deeply rooted social prejudice that often seeks scapegoats rather than solutions. In such situations, what can be given an ascendency is ‘reason’ for reason is the only virtue that stands as a bulwark against collective irrationality.”SC said the Constitution guarantees equality, promotes fraternity and envisages citizens to adopt scientific temperament to rid the society of derogatory practices against women. “Despite this, practices such as witch-hunting continue to persist within a few sections of our society. A Constitutional democracy such as ours cannot survive; wherein such derogatory practices continue to elude the principles of rule of law and Constitutional morality,” it said.Get the latest India News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosPM Modi From Red Fort On 80th Independence Day: ‘India Must Dream Big And Move Forward’79 Years Of Freedom: What Do Indians Really Want From Their Country, Leaders And Democracy Now?NALSAR Row Erupts: CJI Raps BCI, As CJP Demands Resignation Of Bar Council Chief‘Why Rockets?’ Jaipur Residents Mock Potholes With Astronaut Protest After Monsoon RainsRajnath Singh Announces Rs 8.75 Lakh Crore Defence Modernisation Push on 80th Independence DayBomb Threat Email Targets Delhi Courts, Airport, Metro Ahead Of August 15; Security Checks BeginCM Vijay Urges PM Modi To Keep Lok Sabha Strength At 543, Opposes Population-Based DelimitationThey Want To Disturb Punjab’s Peace’: Sukhbir Badal Flags Larger Conspiracy After Nanded Attack’The Great Transshipment Scam’: India Among 40 Nations Aiding China’s Tarrif Evasion, Says USUttarakhand Tunnel Landslide: 7 Workers Dead, 1 Missing; Rescue Operations Continue in Chamoli123PhotostoriesIdli to Cheela: 9 ways to add sooji to daily breakfast7 quiet dog breeds that make great companions for familiesFrom lakeside retreats to Aravalli resorts: 5 luxury escapes in and around Delhi for the Independence Day weekendRani Mukerji goes from Sabyasachi saree to power suit as she collects an Honorary Doctor of Letters from Australia’s La Trobe University10 unusual baby girl names with fascinating historical roots10 naturally tricolour Indian foods to make this Independence DayInside Ruhaanika Dhawan’s luxury home: A massive living room, elegant decor and moreWhat happens to your brain when you slowly reduce your screen time before bed? Neurologist answers5 red vegetables rich in fibre: Simple ways to add them to Indian mealsIndependence Day Special: 7 historic Delhi eateries that have been serving since before 1947123Hot PicksMartin Luther King JrRajasthan UCCDelhi trafficJharkhand protestEast Coast Railway GDCE recruitmentMP Class 10, 12 timetableIran warKarnataka bandhUP NEET UG counsellingTop TrendingOil Prices TodayIndiGo Fight CancelledDelhi High Court Bomb ThreatAmbala Sikh Community ProtestManan KumarVirender Singh BasoyaJP NaddaWeather TomorrowBengaluru RapidoAbhijeet Dipke ‘No-go’ to ‘go-ahead’: PM Modi hails ‘Samrudha Manthan’ for deep-sea exploration in Independence Day speech RSSB Lab Assistant Result 2026 released at rssb.rajasthan.gov.in; check merit list, cut-offs and DV timeline ‘Jana Nayagan’ box office collections day 23: Thalapathy Vijay film enters final phase; India net collection touches Rs 195.29 Cr 7 quiet dog breeds that make great companions for families PM Modi’s Independence Day speech: Energy security demand of our times; no shortage of gas, fuel, urea EMF founding member Derran ‘Derry’ Brownson passes away at 55: ‘Nothing will ever be the same again without our bandmate and friend’ “I am always doing that which I cannot do, in order that I may learn how to do it.” The Texas seventh-grader who found a way to make algae produce 77% more oil in five days Trump claims ‘young, beautiful girls’ thank him for making Washington safer Prime Minister Narendra Modi addresses the nation during the 8oth Independence Day celebrations, at Red Fort in New Delhi. (PTI image) NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday delivered his 13th consecutive Independence Day speech from the ramparts of the Red Fort, becoming the second prime minister after Jawaharlal Nehru to achieve the milestone.PM Modi has addressed the nation from the Red Fort every Independence Day since taking office in 2014. His latest address came on India’s 80th Independence Day.Also read: 80th Independence Day – A throwback at PM Modi’s signature Red Fort turbansNehru, India’s first prime minister, holds the record for the longest uninterrupted run of Independence Day addresses, having delivered 17 consecutive speeches from 1947 to 1963.PM Modi surpassed former prime minister Indira Gandhi, who delivered 11 consecutive Independence Day speeches between 1966 and 1976.PM Modi hoisted the National Flag at the Red Fort before beginning his address, with the ceremony synchronised with a 21-gun salute by the ceremonial battery.Get the latest India News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos79 Years Of Freedom: What Do Indians Really Want From Their Country, Leaders And Democracy Now?NALSAR Row Erupts: CJI Raps BCI, As CJP Demands Resignation Of Bar Council Chief‘Why Rockets?’ Jaipur Residents Mock Potholes With Astronaut Protest After Monsoon RainsRajnath Singh Announces Rs 8.75 Lakh Crore Defence Modernisation Push on 80th Independence DayBomb Threat Email Targets Delhi Courts, Airport, Metro Ahead Of August 15; Security Checks BeginCM Vijay Urges PM Modi To Keep Lok Sabha Strength At 543, Opposes Population-Based DelimitationThey Want To Disturb Punjab’s Peace’: Sukhbir Badal Flags Larger Conspiracy After Nanded Attack’The Great Transshipment Scam’: India Among 40 Nations Aiding China’s Tarrif Evasion, Says USUttarakhand Tunnel Landslide: 7 Workers Dead, 1 Missing; Rescue Operations Continue in Chamoli‘RSS Vs Congress Govt’: Karnataka Cabinet Clears Bill To Curb Events At Public Spaces123PhotostoriesFrom lakeside retreats to Aravalli resorts: 5 luxury escapes in and around Delhi for the Independence Day weekendRani Mukerji goes from Sabyasachi saree to power suit as she collects an Honorary Doctor of Letters from Australia’s La Trobe University10 unusual baby girl names with fascinating historical roots10 naturally tricolour Indian foods to make this Independence DayInside Ruhaanika Dhawan’s luxury home: A massive living room, elegant decor and moreWhat happens to your brain when you slowly reduce your screen time before bed? Neurologist answers5 red vegetables rich in fibre: Simple ways to add them to Indian mealsIndependence Day Special: 7 historic Delhi eateries that have been serving since before 1947Tara Sutaria’s lace drama meets Kiara Advani’s pantsuit power: Who really won the ‘Toxic’ album launch fashion face-off?5 yellow vegetables that may support eye health, immunity and healthy ageing123Hot PicksMartin Luther King JrRajasthan UCCDelhi trafficJharkhand protestEast Coast Railway GDCE recruitmentMP Class 10, 12 timetableIran warKarnataka bandhUP NEET UG counsellingTop TrendingOil Prices TodayIndiGo Fight CancelledDelhi High Court Bomb ThreatAmbala Sikh Community ProtestManan KumarVirender Singh BasoyaJP NaddaWeather TomorrowBengaluru RapidoAbhijeet Dipke