Indian Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi discussed several issues of domestic and international relevance during his 88-minute speech from the Red Fort on India’s 75th Independence Day on Sunday.
In a veiled reference to China and Pakistan, the PM spoke about the challenges of terrorism and expansionism as India’s relations with its two neighbours have deteriorated over the past few years. He said, “If the world is looking at India differently now, there are two aspects to the new perspective. One is terrorism, and the second, expansionism. India is fighting both these challenges and is responding with courage and conviction.” In this regard, he celebrated India’s success in strengthening its defence manufacturing and working towards self-reliance in the defence sector.
PM Modi also mentioned the aircraft carrier Vikrant and other domestically manufactured combat aircraft and submarines. The comments come weeks after India’s first indigenous aircraft carrier IAC Vikrant commenced its sea trials and is scheduled to be inducted into the Indian Navy by the end of this year.
Referring to the threat of terrorism, Modi spoke about the Indian surgical strikes in 2016 and attacks on terrorist pads in Pakistan in 2019. He noted that these two incidents reflected a “new India” that will not hesitate to take tough decisions to counter its enemies. He said, “By conducting surgical strikes and airstrikes, we have sent out a message of the emergence of a new India to our enemies. It also conveys that India can take tough decisions.”
Modi’s reference to expansionism comes amid China’s border-related threats in eastern Ladakh. For over 15 months, the two neighbours have been stuck in a stalemate on the border row, which followed the brawl between the Indian Army and the Chinese People’s Liberation Army in the Galwan Valley last year.
Additionally, the PM discussed his plan to enhance connectivity in Northeast India. He said, “Today, a new history of connectivity is being written in the Northeast. This connectivity is of hearts as well as of infrastructure.” Concerning this, he announced that the capitals of the Northeast states would soon be connected by rail. He said that the region would be developed and become the base for India’s development.
The Northeast states in India form a critical part of Modi’s “Act East” campaign, which seeks to enhance connectivity and diplomatic relations with countries in East and Southeast Asia. It is also an attempt to counter Chinese aggression and expansionism in the Indo-Pacific, specifically in the South China Sea, where China has challenged maritime boundaries.
Modi Hints at Response to Pakistan and China Threats in Independence Day Address
During his Independence Day address, in a veiled reference to Pakistan and China, Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke of India’s fight against terrorism and expansionism.
August 16, 2021
SOURCE: PTI