Leh. 03 July 2020. “The enemies of India have seen the fire and fury of our Forces. Due to the exemplary bravery of our Armed Forces in the recent weeks, the world has taken note of India’s strength. India’s commitment to peace should not be seen as India’s weakness,” reiterated Prime Minister Narendra Modi while addressing the troops in Nimu, Ladakh today.
He added that the era of expansionism is over, this is the era of development. “It is this mindset of expansionism that did great harm. In the last few years, several steps have been taken for the wellbeing of India’s forces and furthering India’s security preparedness. This includes ensuring availability of modern weaponry, increased border infrastructure, border area development and expanding the roads network. Expenditure on border infrastructure has been enhanced three times,” he added.
Prime Minister also mentioned the efforts to strengthen the national security apparatus and to ensure the well-being of our armed forces. He highlighted recent initiatives of the government such as creation of CDS, construction of a grand National War Memorial, fulfilment of OROP after decades and steps to ensure the well-being of the families of the armed forces personnel.
“Today India is becoming stronger, be it in naval might, air power, space power and the strength of our army. Modernization of weapons and upgradation of infrastructure has enhanced our defence capabilities multifold,” he stated.
Prime Minister paid rich tributes to the valour of the Armed Forces, stating that their courage and devotion to the nation is unparalleled. He stated that Indians can go about their lives peacefully because they know that our Armed Forces are standing firm, protecting the nation. Remembering the sacrifice at Galwan Valley he said that those who were martyred belong to all parts of India and epitomize our land’s ethos of bravery. He affirmed that be it Leh-Ladakh, Kargil or the Siachen Glacier, be it the high mountains or the icy cold water that flows in the rivers, these are testimony to the gallantry of India’s Armed Forces. The enemies of India have seen the fire and fury of our forces, said the Prime Minister.
Prime Minister spoke at length about how the virtues of peace, friendship and courage have been a part of India’s culture since time immemorial. He recalled that India has always given a befitting reply to anyone who has tried to disturb the prevailing atmosphere of peace and progress. He affirmed that India is committed to peace and friendship but this commitment to peace should not be seen as India’s weakness. Prime Minister recalled that Indian soldiers had a long history of bravery and competence in global military campaigns, including in the two World Wars.
