NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to address the nation at 5 PM on Sunday, as confirmed by the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO). The PMO has not disclosed the specific topic of the address. With the onset of Navratri and upcoming GST reforms effective from Monday, it is anticipated that the Prime Minister’s speech will focus on these economic developments.
In the past, PM Modi has often utilized such addresses to announce significant policy changes or national milestones, ranging from the demonetization initiative to defense operations. These speeches have typically served to inform citizens about government initiatives and key national events.
Notable past addresses include:
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Demonetization (November 8, 2016): Modi announced the demonetizationof ₹500 and ₹1,000 notes, emphasizing that this measure aimed to combat corruption, black money, and terrorism. The old currency denominations ceased to be legal tender immediately.
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Mission Shakti (March 27, 2019): Following India’s successful anti-satellite missile test, the Prime Minister conveyed national pride, stating, “In the journey of every nation, there are moments that bring utmost pride and have a historic impact on generations to come. One such moment is today.” This operation positioned India among a select group of countries with space-based missile defense capabilities.
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Abrogation of Article 370 (August 2019): After Parliament’s resolution to revoke Article 370 and reorganize Jammu & Kashmir into two Union Territories, Modi addressed the nation, underlining that the special status had been a longstanding promise of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). He stated that this move would promote greater integration and development in the region.
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COVID-19 Pandemic Addresses (2020-2021): During the pandemic, Modi frequently addressed the nation. Notable speeches included a May 12, 2020 address where he announced a ₹20 lakh crore economic package to support those affected by the lockdown, and a June 30, 2020 update on ‘Unlock 2.0’ guidelines as restrictions began to ease.
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Repeal of Farm Laws (November 19, 2021): On Guru Nanak Jayanti, Modi announced the repeal of three controversial farm laws after nearly a year of protests by farmers, urging them to return home and start afresh.
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Operation Sindoor (May 12, 2025): Following a counter-terror operation in response to an attack in Pahalgam, Modi condemned the incident and praised the Indian Armed Forces, asserting that the operation was a decisive response to terrorism.
As anticipation builds for Sunday’s address, analysts suggest it may also touch on Modi’s recent calls for promoting “Swadeshi” products and fostering an ‘Atmanirbhar’ (self-reliant) India in light of trade tensions, including the 50% tariff imposed by the United States on India.
