Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday reached the Longewala post at the Rajasthan border to celebrate Diwali with the soldiers, a tradition that he has followed since 2014.
As per reports, Chief of Defence Staff Bipin Rawat, Army Chief MM Narvane, Border Security Force Director General Rakesh Asthana are also scheduled to be a part of the celebration.
Earlier in the day, the prime minister extended Diwali wishes to the people. “May this festival further brightness and happiness, he tweeted. “May everyone be prosperous and healthy.”
On Friday, Modi had asked the people to light diyas as a tribute to the armed forces. “This Diwali, let us also light a Diya as a salute to soldiers who fearlessly protect our nation,” he said. “Words can’t do justice to the sense of gratitude we have for our soldiers for their exemplary courage. We are also grateful to the families of those on the borders.”
About 100 BSF troops along with Army troops will participate in the celebrations.
The Diwali celebration programme is being held at Longewala, the Thar desert of Rajasthan.