PM Modi's Independence Day Speeches Average Longer Than Any Other PM

PM Modi has delivered ten Independence Day speeches since taking office in 2014. His speeches have varied in length, from a shortest of 55 minutes in 2017 to a longest of 94 minutes in 2016.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Independence Day speeches average 82 minutes, longer than any other PM in India's history. Former PM IK Gujral comes close with 71 minutes, courtesy of his lone speech delivered in 1997.

As India celebrates its 77th Independence Day today, with PM Modi unfurling the flag from the Lahori Gate at the iconic Red Fort in Delhi, there are expectations that he will make some announcements ahead of the general elections next year. 

Since his first Independence Day speech in 2014, PM Modi has used the occasion to announce key policies and engage with citizens on a range of issues. In his 2014 speech, PM Modi announced a host of new programs, including the Swachh Bharat Mission and the Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana.