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New Delhi, Aug 15:

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday used his Independence Day address from the Red Fort to make a strong pitch to India’s youth, unveiling a seven-point ‘Saptdhara’ roadmap for a developed India while announcing initiatives aimed at expanding opportunities for Gen Z.

In his 13th consecutive Independence Day address, Modi said the country’s young population would be the driving force behind the goal of building a Viksit Bharat by 2047.

“Yuva Shakti” was a central theme of the nearly 75-minute speech, with the Prime Minister announcing plans to train one crore youth in artificial intelligence skills and provide free online coaching for competitive examinations. The initiatives are aimed particularly at helping young people from poor and middle-class families.

The focus on youth comes weeks after student protests over examination paper leaks and concerns over unemployment. Modi said India’s youth would lead the country towards a developed future.

Modi also unveiled the Saptdhara framework, drawing a parallel with the ancient reference to the Sapta Sindhu or seven rivers. The roadmap is intended to provide a broad framework for India’s development towards 2047.

As part of the framework, Modi called for India to emerge as a trusted global manufacturing hub, producing everything from components to finished products. He also stressed the need to transform Indian agriculture and food production, including taking indigenous products such as millets, spices and fruits to global markets.

The Prime Minister also reiterated his push for Atmanirbhar Bharat, identifying semiconductors, critical minerals and energy security as key areas for reducing India’s dependence on foreign sources.

Women’s representation in decision-making was another major theme of the address. Against the backdrop of the continuing impasse over the women’s reservation legislation, Modi appealed to the Opposition to set aside political differences and work towards ensuring 33% reservation for women in Parliament and State Assemblies.

Modi’s address also sought to project a broader vision of economic self-reliance, technological advancement and youth-led growth as India works towards becoming a developed nation by 2047.