‘My festival is where you are’: PM tells soldiers in Himachal’s Lepcha on Diwali

India is rapidly emerging as a “big global player” in the defence sector and the capabilities of Indian security forces too are steadily rising, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Sunday.

Addressing soldiers in Lepcha in Himachal Pradesh after celebrating Diwali with them near the China border, Modi said global circumstances were such that the expectations from India were constantly rising.

"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," said Modi, dressed in the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) fatigues.

The prime minister paid handsome tribute to the Indian soldier. "India is protected till the time my bravehearts are standing on the borders like the Himalayas," he said.

He said the soldiers had fought many wars and won the country's heart, at times snatching victory in the face of challenges.

India’s progress

The prime minister also said that India had made unprecedented achievements since the last Diwali. He then listed various developments including India’s mission to the Moon, the passage of the women's reservation bill and India becoming the fifth largest globally in terms of GDP.

"If India is touching heights of development with its full force, the credit for that also goes to your capabilities, resolve and sacrifices," Modi said. "There was a time when we were dependent on others for small things. But now, we are also fulfilling the needs of our friends and allies.”

The prime minister also pointed out that in recent years more than 500 women officers were given permanent commission in the Army. “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 said. "Therefore, on Diwali, one 'diya' is for your safety, and in every prayer, people wish for your safety.”

Celebrating Diwali

Modi said that he had been celebrating Diwali with soldiers for the last 30-35 years, even before he became the chief minister of Gujarat. "For me, a place where our security forces are deployed is no less than a temple," he said.

The prime minister credited the Indian military with rescuing Indians from Sudan and helping the quake hit in Turkey. “Wherever Indians are in danger, security forces are always committed to ensuring their safety,” he said. The prime minister shared photographs of his interactions with the soldiers in which he is seen offering sweets to them.

In his post on X, Modi said: “Spending Diwali with our brave security forces in Lepcha, Himachal Pradesh, has been an experience filled with deep emotion and pride.”

“Away from their families, these guardians of our nation illuminate our lives with their dedication,” he said. “The courage of our security forces is unwavering. Stationed in the toughest terrains, away from their loved ones, their sacrifice and dedication keep us safe and secure.”

(With agency inputs)