On the 55th anniversary of India's independence, President APJ Kalam addressed the nation,

offering his best wishes for well-being and happiness. He praised the men of the defence,
farmers, technicians, teachers, doctors, engineers, scientists, technologists, and other
professionals for their contributions to national development. Kalam also praised the youth of
India for their purposeful hard work and sacrifices. The freedom movement began in 1857 and
has evolved into a vision driven movement with Mahatma Gandhi as its leader. India has made
significant achievements in agriculture, food production, energy, healthcare, education, and
various fields of science and technology. Kalam emphasized the need for a second vision that
integrates people from all walks of society towards a common purpose. This vision aims to
transform India from a developing nation to a developed one, aiming to alleviate poverty,
illiteracy, and unemployment. He also reiterated that Jammu and Kashmir is an integral part of
India and is ready for bilateral dialogue once cross-border terrorism is brought to an end.
The country faces numerous challenges, including addressing droughts and floods, eradicating
communal conflicts, and combating terrorism. A long-term solution is the need for a water
mission that ensures water availability throughout the year while maintaining environmental
purity. This can be achieved through river networking, using technology and project
management capabilities, and desalination from the vast sea. Short-term techniques include
water harvesting and conservation, with large-scale participation in planning. The program
should focus on economic viability, employment potential, environmental sustainability, and
benefit sharing.
The Mahatma's values of non-violence, tolerance, acceptance of all religions and different ways
of life, search for truth, and fearlessness are the cornerstones of Indian polity and civilisational
heritage. Any act that goes against these eternal values poses a threat to the fabric of the free
Indian nation. To preserve our precious heritage and reach greater heights in the future, we
should work together to achieve the mission for Unity of Minds.

When interacting with school children and youth, they often ask for role models. Parents and
teachers should show them by example to live as enlightened citizens. Children also look for role
models at the national level in different fields. It is now time to create more role models from the
present. Members of Parliament and Legislatures can shape the future of our children by
becoming good role models. They have a crucial role in giving the vision of developed India and
value-based polity.

On the occasion of Independence Day, He urges the countrymen to take a vow that the nation is
more important than any individual, party, or organization. And He prays to the Almighty for
Unity of Minds and success in every aspect of life.