PM Modi’s Diwali with the troops shows the profound respect and support between a nation and its defenders

In a powerful address from Kutch, Gujarat, Prime Minister Narendra Modi reiterated his Government’s unwavering commitment to the country’s sovereignty, vowing that India will not cede “even an inch” of its land. This steadfast message, delivered while celebrating Diwali with India’s security forces, emphasised the government’s pledge to fortify the nation’s defences to meet the challenges of the 21st century. “When the world looks at you, it sees India's strength,” Modi said to the soldiers. “When our adversaries look at you, they see the end of their malicious plans.” Addressing personnel of the Border Security Force (BSF), Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force at Lakki Nala in Gujarat’s Kutch region, the Prime Minister highlighted his administration’s dedication to transforming the country’s military into one of the most advanced in the world. Modernisation efforts, he said, are anchored on the principle of self-reliance, a cornerstone of his government’s vision for India’s defense sector. PM Modi also spoke on the lesser-discussed role of border tourism, an initiative he believes holds strategic importance in national security. With Kutch being a crucial geographical area, he mentioned that promoting tourism in border areas helps increase awareness, instills a sense of patriotism, and brings citizens closer to the nation’s defense reality.

This Diwali marks yet another year of Modi’s cherished tradition of celebrating the festival with India’s armed forces. Since 2014, the Prime Minister has made it a point to spend Diwali with soldiers across various fronts, symbolising both gratitude and solidarity with the defenders of the nation. Each year, his Diwali visits have become moments of deep emotional connection with the troops, underscoring the mutual respect and morale shared between the leader and his soldiers. As the Prime Minister continues to foster self-reliance in defence, his words serve not only as a reassurance to the nation but as a warning to adversaries. Indeed, the soldiers stationed in India’s remote borders stand as sentinels of peace, and their Diwali with the Prime Minister serves as a reminder of the unity and resilience that drive India forward. In times of celebration, when families gather to share in the joy of festivals, there exists a silent, steadfast group of heroes who forgo these moments with loved ones to protect the heart and soul of our nation. Our soldiers, standing guard at the borders, embody resilience, courage, and patriotism that transcends any personal sacrifice. They endure the harshest of conditions, from the scorching sun to the bitter cold, and face unforeseen challenges to ensure that our celebrations remain undisturbed, safe, and joyous.This sacrifice takes on a deeper meaning during festival seasons, such as Diwali. While we light our homes with lamps, these brave souls light the way of duty, standing as sentinels against any threats to our country. They spend their festivals under the open sky, far from the warmth of family and loved ones, driven solely by their sense of duty and deep love for the country.