India’s Modi highlights infrastructure plan amid Independence Day celebrations

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi addresses the gathering during Independence Day celebrations at the historic 17th-century Red Fort in New Delhi, India (Manish Swarup/AP)

India will soon launch a 1.35 trillion dollar national infrastructure plan that will boost the country’s economy, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced as part of Independence Day celebrations.

Wearing a flowing bright saffron-coloured turban, Mr Modi addressed the nation from New Delhi’s 17th-century Mughal-era Red Fort to mark the 74th anniversary of India’s independence from British rule.