New Delhi, Aug 15 (TIWN) Addressing the nation for the ninth time from the historic ramparts of Red Fort on the occasion of Independence Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi called for a 'change in the mentality' towards the woman.

Addressing the nation from the ramparts of the Red Fort on the 76th Independence Day, Modi said respect for women is an important pillar for India's growth and stressed the need to extend support to 'Nari Shakti'.

"A distortion has crept in our conduct and we at times insult women," he said, and asked, "Can we take a pledge to get rid of this from our behaviour and values?" It is important that in speech and conduct "we do nothing that lowers the dignity of women", he said.