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.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivers record-breaking 103-minute Independence Day speech, surpassing previous years' durations.

Friday’s address was also PM Modi’s 12th consecutive Independence Day speech, a feat that put him ahead of Indira Gandhi’s record.