11.00 a.m.: Greetings everyone. It is human nature to love rainy season. Heavy rains make us realise water's destructive power. Nature nurtures but it can be destructive too. Changes in weather cycle are casting a negative impact.
Floods
Normal life is affected due to floods in Assam, North East, Gujarat, Rajasthan and Bengal. Government is doing its best rescue and relief work.
Several organisations are helping the people Army, Airforce, NDRF, para-military. Floods damage crops and cause loss to farmers. Insurance companies are being made pro-active. The 24x7 helpline number 1078 has been helpful for flood victims.
Thanks to modern technology, we learn to use weather forecast.
GST
11.05 a.m.: GST is more than just a tax reform! It ushers in a new culture.
GST's returns are evident. GST has made articles of need cheaper. Faith of customers over traders has increased. GST has a positive impact on transport and logistics. Pollution has become lesser and materials are reaching the destinations sooner.
This tax system has simplified and created a positive impact. People have adopted it quickly. In future, India's GST would be seen over as a role model.
It will be a case study in several universities in the world, especially when it involved millions of people. All states are stakeholders of GST.
It is every government's responsibility to help the poor. With the help of GST App, all information is now available on your phone. The dream on One Nation, One tax has been fulfilled.
There is mutual trust between govt and traders. I congratulate all ministries, departments and officials of state and central govt.
It is not merely a tax reform, but it is a way for social reform. I thank countrymen for this achievement.
Freedom movement
11.12 a.m.: The month of August has seen historic movements in India.
Let's remember Non-cooperation movement that began on August 1, 1920. We are celebrating 75 years of Quit India Movement that began on August 9, 1942.
Dr. Yusuf Meher Ali coined this term 'Quit India Movement.'
People's anger against foreign role and sacrifices of freedom fighters led to August 15, Independence Day. Mahatma Gandhi's 'Do or die' and his call for Quit India led to all leaders imprisoned.
Dr. Lohia, Jai Prakash Narayan were at the forefront.
1942 was different from 1920. The mainstay of success was support of the people. Whole country stood united in this struggle.
Our freedom struggle continued from 1857 till 1942. Within 5 years, Britain had to quit. These five years were decisive years. It has been 70 years. Systems were built, changed, developed. Successes were achieved.
We have another opportunity to celebrate 75 years of freedom in 2022.
New India
11.16 a.m.: If 125 crore Indians decide to do something for the country, resolve like the one of 'August Kranti Diwas' in 1942.
We can shape a new future for India in 2022. We have to make 2017 as year of resolve. Poverty, corruption, communalism, casteism quit India. All individuals and institutions should resolve, come up with new ideas, contribute to New India.
When I am speaking on 15th August from the ramparts of the Red Fort, I am merely the medium. It is the people whose voice is resonating. This time too I invite you all to send me suggestions on MyGov or Narendra Modi App. I will try and incorporate them in my Independence Day speech. Some people have told me my speeches were long. This time I have thought to complete it in 40-50 minutes.
Festivals
11.20 a.m.: Our festivals bring economic opportunities for the poor. Our festivals are also campaigns of social reforms. All our festivals are directly linked to the poor. These are occasions for poor to earn well. For e.g., Rakhis are made by these workers with silk and khadi threads.
Diwali is not just a festival of lights. The poor make earthen lamps. Festivals light the lamp of prosperity in the homes of the poor.
I also want to talk about the environmental aspect of festivals. Many conscious citizens have requested me to talk about eco-friendly Ganesh idols. Lokmanya Tilak ji started this tradition. This year is the 125th year of Ganesh Utsav celebrations and 125 crore Indians.
We should hold essay competitions this year. We should remember Tilak ji's contributions and I am confident you will all come together in using Ganesh idols made out of mud.
I give my best wishes to all for upcoming festivals.
Women's cricket
11.25 a.m.: My dear countrymen, our daughters are reaching great heights. I got a chance to meet cricketers and sensed they felt low for not winning Women's World Cup. I told them expectations are high from players. This time the country stood together with them. I see it as a pleasant change. I told them they are lucky to have that support. Don't think you failed. You have won hearts of 125 crore people. My heartiest wishes to our youth, especially daughters.
11.30 a.m.: My dear countrymen, I remind you yet again of August Kranti, of August 9, of Independence Day, August 15. We have to take the country to great heights. Let us walk together on this path and move ahead with this belief. Thank you.