Opening up space sector will generate new employment opportunities: PM Modi

Guwahati: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday hoisted the Tricolour at the Red Fort and addressed the nation amid Covid-19  crisis on Raj Ghat on the occasion of 74th Independence Day.

Addressing the entire nation on Independence Day, PM Modi exuded confidence that opening up space sector will generate new employment opportunities for youth.

"I am confident that measures like opening up space sector will generate many new employment opportunities for our youth," stated PM Modi.

In his Independence day speech, PM Modi also said the dream of Atmanirbhar Bharat is turning into a pledge.

"Amid COVID-19 pandemic 130 crore Indians took the resolve to be self-reliant and 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' is on the mind of India. This dream is turning into a pledge. Aatmanirbhar Bharat has become a 'mantra' for the 130 crore Indians today," PM Modi said.

"I am confident that India will realise this dream. I am confident of the abilities, confidence and potential of my fellow Indians. Once we decide to do something, we do not rest until we achieve that goal," he added.

Taking to Twitter, Modi also extended greetings to the people of the nation. "Happy Independence Day to all fellow Indians. Jai Hind!" 

Keeping the tradition of wearing sporting bright-coloured turbans for his Independence Day speeches, this time the Prime Minister chose an off-white saafa with broad streak of orange for the second I-Day address of his second term.

With the ongoing pandemic, this year the Independence Day function is comparatively muted in terms of participation of people.

It has been reported that on his arrival at the Lahori Gate of Red Fort, Modi was received by the Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Defence Secretary Ajay Kumar.

The Defence Secretary introduced General Officer Commanding (GoC), Delhi Area, Lieutenant General Vijay Kumar Mishra to the Prime Minister.

In the presence of the Prime Minister, the GoC then conducted the Saluting Base, where a combined Inter-Services and Police Guards presented the general salute to him. After that, Modi inspected the Guard of Honour.

Modi then proceeded to the ramparts of the Red Fort where he was greeted and accompanied by Rajnath Singh, Chief of Defence Staff General Bipin Rawat, Chief of Army Staff General M.M. Naravane, Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Karambir Singh and Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal R.K.S. Bhadauria.

While unfurling the tricolour by Modi, the National Guard performed the 'Rashtriya Salute' as the Army Grenadiers Regimental Centre Military Band played the National Anthem.

Major Shweta Pandey forwarded the Prime Minister in the unfurling of the Tricolour that was synchronized with the 21 Gun Salute fired by the valiant gunners of the elite 2233 Field Battery (Ceremonial).

The National Flag Guard comprising 32 men and one officer each from the Army, Navy, Air Force and Delhi Police who presented the Rashtriya Salute.

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