New Delhi, Aug 2026 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday extended warm greetings to the people of the country on the occasion of India’s 80th Independence Day, urging citizens to abandon limited aspirations and embrace bigger dreams and higher ambitions for the nation.
Addressing the nation from the historic Red Fort, PM Modi said the entire country was celebrating the occasion with a renewed sense of pride, enthusiasm and determination. He noted that the spirit of patriotism was visible across the country, with the Tricolour adorning homes and resonating in the hearts and minds of citizens.
"All of us are celebrating the 80th Independence Day. Today, the heartbeat of every heart is echoing with the chant of 'Vande Mataram'," the Prime Minister said.
"Today, there is a Tricolour at every home, and the Tricolour resides in every mind and heart. Filled with enthusiasm and zeal, embracing new resolves, the nation is moving forward," he added.
Extending his greetings to citizens, Modi said, "Very warm greetings and best wishes to all of you on Independence Day."
The Prime Minister also paid rich tribute to the freedom fighters whose sacrifices and struggles paved the way for India’s independence. He said the nation would always remember those who dedicated their entire lives to the cause of freedom and made the ultimate sacrifice.
"Today, the nation reverently remembers those great sons of Mother India who reached the pinnacle of sacrifice and devotion for the freedom of the nation," Modi said.
He also bowed to Mahatma Gandhi and the revolutionaries who inspired generations through their courage and sacrifice.
The Prime Minister said nations achieve greatness when they combine their dreams, determination and capabilities to move steadily towards their goals. He stressed that India could no longer afford to limit its aspirations.
"We can no longer proceed with small dreams. We must have big dreams, because big dreams expand our thinking; they broaden our horizon," he said.
Modi emphasised that determination must remain firm, particularly in the face of challenges and crises. A steadfast resolve, he said, provides the strength to overcome difficulties and find a path forward even during adversity.
He further underlined the importance of setting lofty goals, saying that higher aspirations raise the level of a nation's capabilities and efforts. According to the Prime Minister, when dreams and resolutions are ambitious, the country develops the capacity and determination needed to transform those aspirations into reality.
