Modi says India aims to become developed nation in 25 years

India will aim to become a developed nation within 25 years, with policies to support domestic production in power, defence and digital technology, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said, in his Independence Day address on Monday,

Speaking from the 17th century Red Fort in Delhi, as India celebrates its 75th year of independence from British colonial rule, Modi exhorted the youth to "aim big" and give their best years for the cause of the country.

"We must turn India into a developed country in the next 25 years, in our lifetime," said the 71-year-old Modi, wearing a turban in the colours of the Indian flag, in his 75-minute-speech in Hindi.

"It's a big resolution, and we should work towards it with all our might."

The World Bank currently categorises India as a lower-middle income economy — meant for countries with a gross national income per capita of between $1,086 and $4,255. High income countries, like the United States, have a per capita income of $13,205 or more.

India is the world's sixth-largest economy and is expected to grow at over 7 per cent in the current fiscal year ending in March 2023 — the fastest among major economies.

Many experts say India's economy could expand to become the world's third-largest by 2050 after the United States and China, although per capita income, currently around $2,100, may remain low, compared to many countries.

• UAE: Indian expats mark 'landmark' Independence Day