“India has gained new strategic strength in recent years and today our borders are more secure than ever,” Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi said during his address to the nation from the ramparts of the historic Red Fort, Delhi on 77th Independence Day on August 15, 2023. He reaffirmed the government’s firm determination to ensure national security in the current global security scenario, stating that numerous military reforms are underway to modernize the armed forces and make them young and ready to fight all future challenges.
The Prime Minister also stressed that today the country’s population feels safe, as there has been a dramatic decline in the number of terrorist attacks. When the country is peaceful and secure, new development goals are achieved, he said.
The PM also referred to the One Rank One Pension scheme, a long-standing demand from defense pensioners, which was implemented by the government as soon as it came to power. “OROP was a matter of respect for our country’s soldiers. We implemented it when we came to power. Today Rs 70,000 crore has reached the ex-servicemen and their families,” he added.
The Prime Minister extended his Independence Day greetings to the personnel of the Armed Forces at the borders, who ensure the country’s security and safeguard its interests.
ABB/Expert