Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced six major initiatives focused on artificial intelligence, education, civil defence, sports, semiconductor manufacturing and nuclear energy while addressing the nation from the Red Fort on the 80th Independence Day. The announcements included an AI skilling programme for one crore young people, free online coaching for competitive examinations and a nationwide sports talent hunt for children.
The Prime Minister announced a programme to provide AI skills training to one crore youth over the next year. Referring to the AI Summit held in February, Modi said the initiative aims to equip young Indians with capabilities that can help them compete and lead globally in the field of artificial intelligence. He also announced free online coaching for various competitive examinations, aimed at reducing the financial burden on families that spend heavily on private coaching.
Modi also outlined plans to establish a modern Civil Defence network with a large volunteer force trained to respond to contemporary emergencies and security challenges. The proposed system will familiarise volunteers with modern technologies and response mechanisms. The Prime Minister said the initiative would strengthen India's ability to protect citizens and deal with evolving crises.
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In sports, Modi announced a nationwide talent identification programme for children aged between five and 15 years. The initiative aims to identify promising athletes from across the country and provide them with specialised training. He said India wants to expand its participation across Olympic disciplines, with the country also emerging as a strong contender to host the 2036 Olympics and scheduled to host the Commonwealth Games in 2030.
The Prime Minister also announced an expansion of India's semiconductor manufacturing capabilities. He said three major semiconductor facilities have already been established and production has begun for exports, while five to eight additional plants are expected to become operational over the next seven to eight years. Modi described chip manufacturing as critical for sectors ranging from electronics and medical equipment to transportation.
On energy security, Modi announced a target of achieving 100 GW of nuclear power capacity by 2047. He said the government aims to commission five new nuclear reactors within the current decade and highlighted India's progress in fast breeder nuclear technology. Taken together, the six announcements placed technology, education, national preparedness, sports, advanced manufacturing and energy security at the centre of the government's Independence Day agenda.
Also Read: PM Modi Announces Free Online Coaching For All, AI Training For 1 Crore Youth