On Thursday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi celebrated Diwali with personnel from the Border Security Force (BSF), Army, Navy, and Air Force near the Indo-Pak border in Gujarat’s Kutch district. The Prime Minister visited the contested Sir Creek area, where he engaged with soldiers and distributed sweets to the troops, emphasizing his government’s unwavering commitment to national sovereignty.
During his address, PM Modi reaffirmed, “My government will never compromise with even an inch of the country’s land,” underscoring the importance of territorial integrity in the face of external challenges.
In a nod to modern warfare, he highlighted the government’s efforts to equip the armed forces with cutting-edge resources, aligning them with the demands of the twenty-first century. “We are placing the Army among the world’s most modern military forces, and the foundation of these efforts is self-reliance in the defence sector,” he stated.
Addressing the soldiers, PM Modi expressed gratitude for their role as protectors of India’s vision for a developed nation. “Today, as we rapidly progress towards the goal of a developed India, you all are essential to realizing this dream,” he said.
The Prime Minister also brought attention to the often-overlooked aspect of border tourism, noting that Kutch has significant potential to enhance national security. “When the world looks at you, it sees India’s strength. When our adversaries look at you, they see the end of their malicious plans,” he said, reinforcing the need for robust policies that reflect the resolve of the armed forces.
Speaking on the unity of India’s defense forces, PM Modi remarked, “While we see one army, one air force, and one navy individually, when they unite, they appear as one hundred and eleven.” This statement underscored the synergy between the branches of the military, which is crucial for national defense.
Continuing his tradition since taking office in 2014, PM Modi celebrated Diwali with military personnel at Lakki Nala in the Sir Creek area. He visited a BSF outpost along the Pakistan border, engaging with soldiers and exchanging festive greetings, fostering a sense of camaraderie and support.
Each year, the Prime Minister makes it a point to celebrate the festival with the armed forces at various locations across the country, highlighting the importance of their sacrifices and contributions to national security. This Diwali, his visit served not only to boost the morale of the troops but also to reaffirm the government’s commitment to ensuring the safety and integrity of India’s borders.
