Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, on Wednesday celebrated Diwali with jawans of the Indian Army and ITBP, at Harsil in Uttarakhand.
Greeting the jawans on the occasion, PM Modi said that their devotion to duty in the remote icy heights, is enabling the strength of the nation, and securing the future and the dreams of 125 crore Indians. He said that Diwali is the festival of lights; it spreads the light of goodness and dispels fear. He said that the jawans, through their commitment and discipline, are also helping to spread the sense of security and fearlessness among the people.
Modi recalled that he has been visiting soldiers on Diwali, ever since he was the Chief Minister of Gujarat. He also spoke of his interactions with the jawans of ITBP, years ago when he was part of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra.
Prime Minister said India is taking great strides forward in the defence sector. He spoke of various measures being taken for welfare of ex-servicemen, including OROP (One Rank, One Pension).
PM Modi said that the Indian Armed Forces draw admiration and appreciation across the world, in UN peacekeeping operations.
PM Modi offered sweets to the jawans and also interacted with people from nearby areas who had gathered to greet him on Diwali.
