In a comprehensive overview of India’s achievements, the Prime Minister celebrated strides in space missions, infrastructure development, and international recognition. Modi underscored the vital role played by women in the armed forces, marking milestones such as the commissioning of women officers.
In an auspicious Diwali tradition, Prime Minister Narendra Modi shares the festival of lights with the armed forces in Lepcha, Himachal Pradesh, underscoring the critical role of the military in fortifying the security of India. Modi not only expressed gratitude for the soldiers’ sacrifice but also highlighted India’s advancements in defence, emphasising the inseparable link between Diwali celebrations and national security.
“At such an important time, it is necessary that India’s borders are protected and there is an environment of peace in the country, and you have a big role in this,” Modi, dressed in Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) fatigues, said.
“India is protected till the time my brave-hearts are standing on the borders, unflinching as the Himalayas,” the prime minister said. He added that after independence, “these brave-hearts (Army personnel) fought so many wars and won the country’s heart…Our jawans have snatched victory in the face of challenges”.
“It is said that ‘parv‘ is where the ‘parivaar‘ is. On festivals, being away from the family and deployed on the borders exemplifies the commitment to duty. The country is indebted to you,” Modi told soldiers.
“Therefore, on Diwali, one ‘diya‘ is for your safety, and in every prayer, people wish for your safety,” the prime minister said, noting that for 30-35 years he has been travelling to border areas on Diwali to celebrate the festival with soldiers.
Modi highlighted that he has been doing it since long before he was elected as prime minister or chief minister. “The place where jawans are posted is no less than any temple for me. Wherever you are, my festival is there,” he said.
India’s soldiers have always walked ahead, risking their lives, and have always proven that they are the “strongest wall” at the borders, he said. “For me, a place where our security forces are deployed is no less than a temple,” Modi said.
During his address, PM Modi acknowledged the global expectations placed on India and the nation’s emerging stature as a key player in the defence sector. He praised the armed forces for their unwavering commitment to duty, drawing a parallel between their presence on the borders and the strength of the Himalayas.
In a comprehensive overview of India’s achievements, the Prime Minister celebrated strides in space missions, infrastructure development, and international recognition. Modi underscored the vital role played by women in the armed forces, marking milestones such as the commissioning of women officers.
Adding a security dimension, PM Modi lauded the armed forces for their contributions to evacuations and disaster relief efforts, emphasising the critical link between national security and the country’s journey towards self-reliance (Atmanirbhar Bharat). The celebration served as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by the armed forces in safeguarding the nation, reinforcing a sense of unity and resilience in the pursuit of enhanced security.