Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his surprise visit to the base camp here on Thursday said the country can celebrate Diwali because of the efforts of the armed forces. "As countrymen light diyas today, they should recall that the warmth of the earthen lamps has been fuelled by the sweat and toil of the jawans of the Indian armed forces. Let those jawans inspire the rest of the country to work towards achieving the dreams and aspirations of the common man," Prime Minister Modi said while addressing the soldiers here.
Assuring the soldiers that the nation stands shoulder to shoulder with the armed forces, Prime Minister Modi said the dreams and responsibilities of the armed forces are the entire country's responsibility. He also said he would do his utmost to ensure a life of dignity for them. The Prime Minister said the promise of One Rank, One Pension had been fulfilled and added that preparations were being made for a National War Memorial that the country could be proud of.
Prime Minister Modi further said the Indian armed forces were unique because they spelt danger for the enemy on the battlefield but were the difference between life and death for all countrymen affected by disasters or natural calamities. He also recalled the contribution made by the armed forces during the recent floods in Kashmir.
The Prime Minister also professed delight at the significant contribution of women in the armed forces. Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Modi extended the nation Diwali greetings from Siachen, the world highest battleground, as he interacted with the troops stationed here. "From the icy heights of the Siachen Glacier & with the brave Jawans & Officers of the Armed Forces, I wish all of you a Happy Diwali," he tweeted.
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