Independence Day 2017: Technology gets a special mention in Narendra Modi’s speech

Marking India's 71st Independence Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi today addressed the nation from the rampart of the Red Fort in Delhi. During his 54-minute speech, Modi touched upon a variety of issues, ranging from black money to employment. The PM also talked about the role of technology in paving the way for India's development.

Hailing the successful roll out of General Sales Tax (GST) in the country, Modi said that technology played a key role in the process. He added that the world is surprised by India's capability of rolling out such radical change in such a short span of time.

On the ongoing battle against black money and corruption, the prime minister pointed out that the government has made successful attempts at bringing transparency by integrating technology and Aadhaar. He also lauded the GeM portal that allows people in remote areas to supply products and services directly to the government.

Modi also talked about the impact of demonetisation in the country and encouraged people to adopt digital transactions. He urged everybody to start using the Unified Payments Interface (UPI)-based BHIM app for their financial transactions. He revealed that digital transactions have grown in the country by 34% in last one year. He also expressed hope that India will soon transition from the physical currency notes to full-fledged digital currency.

The prime minister said, "The changing nature of technology is resulting in the requirement of different skill-sets for employment. He also added that the youth is being nurtured to become job-creators, and not job-seekers."

The prime minister also announced a dedicated portal to honour all gallantry award winners since Independence. "In remembrance of our heroes who have been awarded gallantry awards since Independence, launched the site http://gallantryawards.gov.in/ . The portal http://gallantryawards.gov.in/ will preserve and tell the stories of our bravest men and women, civilians as well as armed forces personnel. If you have any information/photo that is missing and can be added to the portal, please share it through the feedback link on the site," the prime minister added.