Social reform & reconstruction

PM's speech focuses on advice for citizens

Much was expected from Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s speech on the 75th anniversary of Indian Independence. While in the past Independence Day speeches have served as a map to government action in the coming years, Mr Modi’s unique ability to connect with the Indian electorate on any given occasion has meant that his speeches from the ramparts of Red Fort are often dominated by reminders of how Indians can live up to their requirements of citizenship or justify the sacrifices of their forebears. Monday’s speech was no different; the prime minister outlined, for example, five principles for Indians: Moving forward