Prime Minister celebrates Diwali with soldiers at Nowshera.

SHYAM SOOD
RAJOURI NOVEMBER 04:— “If our armed forces are blessed with sky-touching valour, their hearts are an ocean of human kindness also, that is why our armed forces not only defend the borders but are also always ready to help during calamity and natural disasters. It has grown as a strong trust in the heart of every Indian. You are the custodians and defenders of India’s unity and integrity and the emotion of ‘Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat’. I am fully confident that with the inspiration of your bravery, we will take India to the zenith of growth and progress,” said Prime Minister Narendra Modi while celebrating festival of lights with soldiers in Rajouri district of J&K on Thursday.
At about 10 am Prime Minister landed at HQs of Infantry Brigade at Nowshera in Rajouri district to celebrate Diwali festival with the soldiers manning the LoC.
While paying rich tribute to heroes of Nowshera & Rajouri (who sacrificed their lives in 1947-48) Brig Usman, Naik Jadunath Singh, Lt R.R.Rane, & others PM said: “I have brought wishes of the 130 crore Indian for you”.
“Today’s India, in the ‘Amrit Kaal’ of the freedom, is alert about its capabilities and resources. Connectivity in border areas from Ladakh to Arunachal Pradesh, from Jaisalmer to Andaman Nicobar has been established with modern infrastructure, leading to unprecedented improvement in the infrastructure and convenience for soldiers” he added.
“Participation of women in the country’s defence is touching new heights. Indian Armed forces are as professional as the top armed forces of the world, but its human values make it distinct and extraordinary” said PM.
He further said: “We don’t perceive the nation as government, power or empire, for us, it is living, present soul, defending this is not limited to defending just the geographical boundaries. For us, national defence means defending national vibrancy, national unity, and national integration.”
“Spending Diwali with the Armed Forces, for me, is in the same spirit as celebrating Diwali with my family. I have celebrated all the Diwalis with the armed forces at the border after assuming a constitutional post. I have not come alone, but has brought with me the wishes of the 130 crore Indians, ” said PM while addressing the soldiers.
“Today evening, every Indian will light one ‘Diya’ to convey his/ her wishes for the brave soldiers of the country who are living security shield of the country. Serving the country is a good fortune that is not available to everyone” said PM.
From Nowshera, Shri Modi greeted the countrymen for Diwali and other upcoming festivals such as Goverdhan Puja, Bhaiyya Dooj, & Chatth.
“Nowshera’s history celebrates the bravery of India and its present is the embodiment of the bravery and determination of the soldiers. The region has stood strongly against the aggressor and encroachers,” said PM.
He paid rich tribute Brig.Usman, Naik Jadunath Singh, and Lt R R Rane, who had made supreme sacrifices for the liberation of Nowshera, Rajouri from the clutches of Pakistan intruders in 1947-48.
The Prime Minister also described his feelings for taking the blessings of Baldev Singh and Basant Singh, who supported armed forces steadfastly (in 1947-48).
He also praised the Nowshera’s Infantry Brigade for their role in the surgical strike while recalling the moment of relief when all the brave soldiers returned safely from the strike.
The PM talked about the growing Aatmnirbharta in defence and said that 65% of the Defence Budget is being used inside the country.
200 products will be procured only indigenously & and the list is going to be expanded soon. 7 new Defence companies launched on Vijaya Dashmi as the old ordnance factories will now make specialized sector-specific equipment and ammunition.
The Prime Minister emphasized that Indian Military power needs to be expanded and transformed according to the changing needs.
He said the fast-changing technology landscape has demanded new & that is why CDS and Department of Military Affairs are steps in that direction.
“Connectivity in border areas from Ladakh to Arunachal Pradesh, from Jaisalmer to Andaman Nicobar has been established with modern infrastructure, leading to unprecedented improvement in the infrastructure and convenience for soldiers” said the PM.
“Participation of women in the country’s defence is touching new heights. After being deployed on the frontlines in Navy and Air Force, now women’s role is being expanded in Army also. Along with opening up of the Permanent Commission, NDA, National Military School, and National Indian Military College for women” said the PM.
“Boundless capabilities, unwavering service spirit, strong determination, and incomparable sensitivity has made Indian Armed Forces unique among the armed forces of the world” said PM.
Indian Armed forces are as professional as the top armed forces of the world, but its human values make it distinct and extraordinary, he added.
“For you, this is not just a job for the salary, for you, this is a calling and worship, a worship in which you channel the spirit of 130 crore people,” said the Prime Minister.
“Empires come and go but India was eternal thousands of years ago, remains so today, and will remain eternal after thousands of years later. We don’t perceive the nation as government, power, or empire, for us, it is a living, present soul, defending this is not limited to defending just the geographical boundaries. For us national defence means defending this living national vibrancy, national unity, and national integration” said Prime Minister Narendra Modi.