Headline: PM Modi Celebrates Diwali with Armed Forces in Kutch
On October 31, 2023, Prime Minister Narendra Modi marked the auspicious festival of Diwali with personnel from the Border Security Force (BSF), Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force in the challenging terrain of Lakki Nala, located in Gujarat’s Kutch district. This annual tradition of honoring India’s brave soldiers during the festival of lights reinforces the government’s commitment to recognizing the sacrifices made by military personnel.
Celebrating Diwali in Harsh Terrain
Modi’s visit to Sir Creek—a marshy area near the India-Pakistan border known for its inhospitable conditions—provided a poignant backdrop for this year’s festivities. “This (Sir Creek) is an extremely inhospitable place, due to the very hot days and very cold nights. The terrain is also challenging,” an official source remarked, highlighting the difficult circumstances faced by the security forces stationed there.
During his visit, PM Modi shared warm Diwali greetings with the soldiers stationed at the BSF outpost, engaging them in conversations that fostered camaraderie and spirit. The Prime Minister’s dedication to celebrating Diwali with military personnel has been a hallmark of his tenure since he assumed office in 2014. Each year, Modi has visited various military installations across the nation, signifying his respect for those who serve on the front lines.
The Significance of Sir Creek
Sir Creek’s strategic importance cannot be overstated, especially considering its proximity to the contested India-Pakistan border. Despite its unwelcoming environment, the area serves as a crucial point for maintaining national security. The region’s salt flats, mudflats, and mangroves contribute to its challenging navigation, but they also serve as a reminder of the resilience and dedication of the armed forces stationed there.
A Tradition of Honoring the Armed Forces
Since taking office, PM Modi has made it a tradition to acknowledge and celebrate with the military during Diwali. His past visits include:
- 2014: Siachen Glacier
- 2015: Memorials in Punjab commemorating the Indian Army’s 1965 war efforts
- 2016: Himachal Pradesh, engaging with the Indo-Tibetan Border Police
- 2017: Gurez sector in North Kashmir
- 2018: Troops in Harsil, Uttarakhand
- 2019: Soldiers in Jammu and Kashmir’s Rajouri
- 2020: Border post of Longewala
- 2021: Nowshera in Jammu and Kashmir
- 2022: Kargil
- 2022: Lepcha in Himachal Pradesh
National Unity Day Observance
Before visiting the soldiers, PM Modi made a stop at the Statue of Unity in Ekta Nagar to pay floral tributes to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel on the occasion of his birth anniversary, which is celebrated as National Unity Day. This dual observance underscores the theme of unity, resilience, and leadership in challenging times.
Positive Developments Along the LAC
This year’s Diwali celebrations also coincided with favorable developments along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) between India and China. Notably, the two countries exchanged sweets at multiple border points, symbolizing a thaw in tensions. This diplomatic gesture followed the completion of troop disengagement at two friction points in eastern Ladakh.
An Indian Army source reported, “Sweets exchange between members of the troops of India and China took place at several border points along the LAC on the occasion of Diwali.” Such exchanges were observed at five Border Personnel Meeting (BPM) points, including Bum La and Nathu La, highlighting efforts toward maintaining peace.
As India’s armed forces carry out their duties under challenging circumstances, the Prime Minister’s annual Diwali visit serves as a vital reminder of the importance of recognizing their contributions. Not only does this gathering bring joy and festive spirit to the soldiers, but it also reinforces the nation’s commitment to safeguarding its borders.
For those interested in the ongoing developments regarding India’s military presence and geopolitical maneuvers, further reading can be found at authoritative sources such as TechCrunch, Wired, and The Verge.
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