NEW DELHI, Aug. 15 (Xinhua) -- Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced a series of major initiatives, including a nationwide AI-skilling program, as the country celebrated its 80th Independence Day on Saturday.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi receives a ceremonial guard of honor as he arrives to address the nation from the rampart of the Red Fort monument during the country's Independence Day celebrations in New Delhi, India, Saturday, Aug. 15, 2026. (Photo: AP)

The AI-skilling program was designed to benefit 10 million young people nationwide, according to Modi in his address to the nation.

"We organized the AI Impact Summit recently. The expansion of AI is taking place at a very rapid pace ... We have decided that, in the next one year, we will train one crore (10 million) young people in AI skills, so that the youth of our country have the capability to lead in the world of AI as well," Modi said.

The initiatives also included free online coaching for competitive examinations, civil defense reforms, a sports talent hunt for children, expansion of semiconductor manufacturing and new targets for nuclear power generation.

The prime minister highlighted the critical role of semiconductor chips in the digital and technological world and said India was moving towards self-reliance in this sector.

Modi also underlined the importance of energy security and nuclear power.

Ahead of India's Independence Day celebrations, security was beefed up across the country, including the capital city New Delhi.