Kathmandu: Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has unveiled a new vision called ‘Shakti Saptadhara’, outlining seven key areas that his government believes will help build a “Developed India” and a self-reliant nation.
Addressing the nation from the Red Fort on India’s 80th Independence Day, Modi hoisted the national flag for the 13th consecutive time and delivered a speech lasting around an hour and 15 minutes.
During his address, he highlighted manufacturing, agriculture, technology, infrastructure, defence, the green and blue economies, and India’s cultural influence as the major pillars of the country’s future development.
What are the seven pillars of ‘Saptadhara’?
Modi described seven forms of “power” as the foundation for achieving the goals of a developed and self-reliant India.
1. Manufacturing Power:
Modi said India must become a reliable hub in the global supply chain, from design to manufacturing. He stressed the need to meet global standards in terms of price, quality and production capacity.
2. Agricultural and Food Power:
Agriculture and food production were identified as the second pillar. Modi said India is gaining access to larger international markets through free trade agreements and should further strengthen its agricultural and food-production capabilities.
3. Technology and Innovation Power:
Artificial intelligence, space technology and data centres will be key areas of focus. Modi said India should aim to take a leading position in emerging technologies and innovation.
4. Gati Shakti:
The fourth pillar focuses on modern infrastructure and connectivity. Modi highlighted plans to connect cities through high-speed rail, build modern highways and expand port infrastructure.
5. Defence Power:
Defence production has been identified as the fifth pillar. Modi said India has made significant progress in increasing domestic defence production and should continue moving toward self-reliance in the sector.
6. Green and Blue Power:
The sixth pillar focuses on the green and blue economies. Modi called for strengthening India’s capabilities in green hydrogen, renewable energy, energy storage, green transportation and environmentally friendly manufacturing.
He also emphasized the promotion of fisheries and coastal tourism.
7. India’s Soft Power:
India’s cultural and creative influence was presented as the seventh pillar. Modi highlighted handicrafts, culture, films, VFX, animation, gaming and digital content as areas through which India can expand its global influence.
Free online coaching for students
Modi also announced free online coaching for young people preparing for competitive examinations.
He said the initiative would help reduce the financial burden on families by bringing together India’s digital public infrastructure, talented teachers and students to create a nationwide network of free online coaching.
Modi warns of ‘ideological Naxalism’
Speaking about the government’s strategy against Naxalism and Maoism, Modi claimed that armed Naxalism had caused serious damage to the future of millions of young people.
He said that while armed Naxalites had been eliminated, “ideological Naxalites” were still looking for opportunities to promote violence and disorder.
According to Modi, such elements must be identified and isolated so that young people can remain part of the mainstream effort to transform India into a developed nation.
Modi has previously used terms such as “urban Naxals” and the “Khan Market gang” in his political speeches.
India bids for 2036 Olympics
India is seeking to host the 2036 Olympic Games in Gujarat. Modi said India is moving forward as a strong contender to host the event.
He also said India would host the 2030 Commonwealth Games.
Modi called on young people to participate in sports where India has traditionally had limited representation. He announced plans for a nationwide talent-hunt programme to identify promising athletes between the ages of 5 and 15 and provide them with specialized training.
The initiative is aimed at expanding India’s participation across a wider range of sports and developing the next generation of international-level athletes.
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