PM Modi started his address by greeting the nation a happy and prosperous Diwali. PM Modi said that he feels great to share the festival with the soldiers who are never off duty and even congratulated the families and parents of the soldiers who are celebrating the festival of lights aways from their children.
Diwali 2020 LIVE Updates
PM Modi remembered the soldiers who sacrificed their lives in the battle of Longewala. PM said," Noone has forgotten the valour of the soldiers in the battle of Longewala and the country salutes Brigadier Kuldip Singh Chandpuri, the hero of the battle who showed Pakistan the strength of the army."
"India has long borders with several nations, but if there is one border post whose name is known by every Indian, it is Longewala. The Battle of Longewala is one that every Indian knows about and the saying 'Jo bole so nihaal, sat sri akaal' comes to mind every time we think about it," PM Modi said, addressing the soldiers.
Next year marks 50 years since the Battle of Longewala during the 1971 India-Pakistan war.
"Some people may wonder why Modi-ji goes to meet soldiers year after year on Diwali. But tell me one thing, Diwali is a festival we celebrate with family, and with those we call our own... so each year, I spend time with you all, because you all are my own, my family," PM Modi said, thanking the soldiers on behalf of the rest of the country.
"Be it the peaks of the Himalayas, the stretch of desert, dense forests or the depths of seas - your valour has always triumphed in every challenge.No power in the world can stop our security forces from protecting the nation", PM Modi at Longewala.
"Today the strategy of India is clear. Today's India believes in the policy of understanding and making others understand. But if attempts are made to test us, the reply they receive is intense", PM Modi in Jaisalmer.
"130 Crore Indians are standing with you. Every Indian is proud of the strength and valour of our soldiers. They are proud of your invincibility. No power in the world can stop our brave soldiers from guarding the borders of our country", PM Modi
PM Modi ended his address by focusing on the coronavirus pandemic and said, "With wearing masks these days due to COVID, people are realising the difficulty & the resilience it takes to dawn military gear and serve postings in difficult conditions. This realisation is making our countrymen resolve to be more disciplined."
Army to go Vocal for Local: PM Modi
"India is working rapidly to increase its defence capability & make its defence sector Atmanirbhar. We've decided to focus on the indigenous arms factory. This one decision of the defence sector propelled 130 crore Indians to work towards vocal for local doctrine", PM Modi in Jaisalmer.
Several top Army, IAF and BSF officials welcomed the PM in Jaislamer, who arrived by a special aircraft. BSF director general Rakesh Asthana reached the area before Modi's arrival. Chief of Defence Staff Bipin Rawat and Army chief MM Narvane also accompanied him.
PM Modi's visit also comes a day after eleven people including five soldiers were killed in ceasefire violations by Pakistani troops in several areas in north Jammu and Kashmir.
Light a diya to salute the soldiers: PM Modi
PM Modi also addressed the AirForce officers at Jaisalmer Airbase and said saluted the courage and sacrifice for their country. PM Modi hailed the world done by the security forces after Coronavirus hit the country and nation went under lockdown.
"The Indian Armed Forces worked on a war footing during COVID 19 pandemic and contributed at every level ensuring the availability of masks, sanitizers, PPE kits, medical equipment, and hospitals in the country," PM Modi at Jaisalmer Airbase.
PM urged the nation to light a diya this Diwali to salute the courage and contribution of soldiers in nation-building. PM also respected the decision of armed forces to boycott international products and become Atmanirbhar.
"If anyone casts an evil eye on us, our soldiers reply to them befittingly. This establishes the credibility of the Indian Army in the world. Today, the country's Army is engaged in military exercises with other big countries," PM Narendra Modi in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan.
Earlier, PM Modi had tweeted on Friday and asked everyone to light a diya for the ones protecting us at the borders.
"This Diwali, let us also light a Diya as a #Salute2Soldiers who fearlessly protect our nation. Words can't do justice to the sense of gratitude we have for our soldiers for their exemplary courage. We are also grateful to the families of those on the borders," PM Modi tweeted.
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