Punjab Newsline | New Delhi
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday announced plans to establish a large nationwide civil defence network, calling for greater participation of citizens in strengthening the country’s security.
Addressing the nation from the Red Fort on the 80th Independence Day, Modi said security was no longer limited to protecting the country’s borders and required the active involvement of citizens.
“I am announcing from the Red Fort that we will soon create a large civil defence network across the country,” the Prime Minister said, adding that the network would be equipped to deal with modern security challenges.
Modi said young people would have a major role to play in the initiative and urged citizens, particularly the youth, to contribute to national security.
He also pointed to emerging threats beyond conventional warfare, saying that attacks could target critical infrastructure such as oil refineries and the banking sector. He stressed that the country needed to remain prepared to protect such vital systems.
The Prime Minister also highlighted the need to strengthen internal security while speaking about the government's fight against Maoism and Naxalism. He said armed Naxalism had declined significantly but warned against what he described as “ideological Naxalism”.
Modi said such elements must be identified and isolated to prevent them from pushing the country towards violence.
Emphasising the broader responsibility of citizens, the Prime Minister called for a collective approach to national security and nation-building, urging people to work together to make India safer and stronger.
