During his Friday speech, Modi also hinted India would continue its unilateral suspension of the Indus Water Treaty. The treaty, which India suspended after the April massacre, allows sharing of the Indus River that runs about 2,897 kilometers (1,800 miles) through South Asia and is a lifeline for both countries.

Since 1947, India’s Prime Ministers have addressed the nation from the Red Fort on Independence Day, using the moment to outline challenges, set priorities, and offer a vision for the future. A review of these speeches shows how each leader has approached issues ranging from governance and foreign relations to the economy and national security.