What Is the ‘Saptadhara’ Announced by Prime Minister Modi from Red Fort?

Summary: On the occasion of India’s 80th Independence Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced from the Red Fort a seven-fold ‘Saptadhara’ (stream of powers) to build a developed India. Modi declared free online coaching for youth preparing for competitive exams and claimed India’s ambition to host the Olympics in 2036. He stated that armed Naxalism has ended and emphasized the need to identify and isolate ‘mind Naxalites’ who promote violence in society. Kathmandu, 31st Shrawan. On India’s 80th Independence Day, Modi unfurled the national flag from the ramparts of the Red Fort for the 13th consecutive time. In a nearly 75-minute-long speech, he highlighted his government’s achievements and announced new policies for the future. He stressed increasing production, defense manufacturing, and electricity generation. Announcements also included promoting the semiconductor industry and nuclear energy. Modi proclaimed the end of armed Naxalism and said that despite global fertilizer shortages, affordable fertilizer has been provided to farmers. He also introduced the government’s new vision of ‘Saptadhara of Power’ from the Red Fort.

What is ‘Saptadhara’?

Under ‘Saptadhara,’ Prime Minister Modi outlined seven types of ‘powers’ which, according to him, will contribute to building a ‘developed’ and ‘self-reliant’ India. Modi said, ‘Today I want to recall the era when India’s strength was recognized as the Saptsindhu (seven rivers), understood and heard. To build a developed India, a new stream is needed. From the Red Fort, I want to raise the voice of this Saptadhara of power before the nation. In the next 5 to 7 years, what has not been achieved in the last 5 to 7 decades, the strength of Saptadhara will take the country to new heights, speeds, and goals.’

The first power of ‘Saptadhara’ is manufacturing power. According to Modi, India must become a reliable hub in the global supply chain from design to production. He emphasized that India must meet global standards in price, quality, and production scale.

The second power is agriculture and food production. Modi mentioned that through free trade agreements, India has secured a large market.

The third power focuses on technology and innovation in AI and data centers, aiming to lead in artificial intelligence (AI), space, and data centers.

The fourth power is named ‘Gatisheelta’ (mobility), involving plans to connect cities through high-speed rail, develop modern highways, and improve ports.

The fifth power is defense production, attributed to the increase in defense manufacturing.

The sixth power is the green and blue economy. Modi stated the need to develop world-class capabilities in green hydrogen, renewable energy, energy storage, green transportation, and green manufacturing. He also emphasized promoting fisheries and coastal tourism.

The seventh and final power is India’s ‘soft power.’ Modi highlighted India’s influence in handicrafts, culture, film, creative industries, VFX, animation, gaming, and digital content.

In the context of dissatisfaction with the education system and recent student protests, the government has decided to provide free online coaching for youth preparing for competitive exams. Modi stated from the Red Fort, ‘To ensure that youth do not bear a financial burden, we will offer free online coaching for various exams. We will create a complete network that connects digital infrastructure, excellent talent, and teachers to provide free coaching to the country’s youth.’

Addressing the strategy against ‘mind Naxalites’ following the decline of armed Naxalism, Modi said, ‘Naxalism and Maoism destroyed the future of millions of youth.’ Using new terminology associated with Naxalism, he added, ‘There are fewer armed Naxalites now, but mind Naxalites are seeking opportunities. They are looking for ways to spread violence and anarchy. They are trying to mislead society. They must be identified, isolated, and connected with young people who will build a developed nation.’

Previously, Modi had used terms such as ‘Urban Naxal’ and ‘Khan Market Gang.’

India’s bid to host the 2036 Olympics: The Indian government plans to host the Olympic Games in Gujarat in 2036. Modi spoke about this during the Independence Day ceremony. From the Red Fort, he said, ‘We are moving forward with a strong bid for the 2036 Olympics. India will also host the Commonwealth Games in 2030.’

Modi urged youth to participate in sports in which Indian involvement has been low in recent years. ‘There are about 40 sports and around 325-350 events in the Olympics, and India does not compete in two-thirds of them,’ he stated. To increase participation, a nationwide talent search campaign (Talent Hunt) will be conducted. Modi announced plans to provide specialized training for talents aged 5 to 15 years to develop them into top athletes.