Prime Minister Narendra Modi landed in Kargil to celebrate Diwali with soldiers. He said India never considered war as the first option but if anyone casts an evil eye on the country, the armed forces will give a befitting reply. (Pics/PTI)
Updated On: 2022-10-24 02:40 PM IST
Addressing the armed forces on Diwali, the prime minister also recalled his visit to this frontier region in the aftermath of the Kargil conflict in 1999 when the Indian military had "crushed the hood of terror".
"There has not been a single war with Pakistan when Kargil has not flown the victory flag," PM Modi said adding that Diwali symbolised the "celebration of the end of terror".
"I have witnessed the Kargil war closely. It was my duty that had brought me to Kargil back then. There are many memories of that time when the sounds of victory were reverberating all around," PM Modi said, continuing with the tradition set by him to celebrate Diwali at the country's frontiers.
PM Modi said when India's strength rises, it will be beneficial for global peace and prosperity.
PM Modi said self-reliance is the most important to the nation's security. He said country's dependence should be minimal on foreign weapons and systems.
