NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday spent the occasion of Diwali with the soldiers at Longewala post in Jaisalmer and paid tributes to the valor of India's armed forces.
Speaking to jawans during his visit, the Prime Minister said that the sacrifices of our jawans teach the country discipline and a sense of service.
On the occasion, he recalled the fierce fight the post had witnessed in the 1971 war against Pakistan and paid tributes to Brig Kuldeep Singh Chandpuri, a hero of the battle, saying he became "rashtra deep" with his feat of bravery.
"Whenever history on the excellence of our soldiers will be written, the Battle of Longewala will be remembered," he said.
The saying ‘Jo bole so nihaal, sat sri akaal’ comes to mind every time we think about it (Longewala), he said.
The Prime Minister said the 1971 war against Pakistan was on example of the exemplary coordination among Army, Navy and Air Force. India had defeated Pakistan in the war, leading to the independence of Bangladesh.
The Prime Minister credited the soldiers for turning India into a country that gives a befitting reply to those challenging its sovereignty.
"Today India kills terrorists & their leaders by entering their homes. The world now understands that this nation won't compromise with its interests, not at any cost. This repute and stature of India is all due to your strength & valor," he told the soldiers.
In an indirect reference to China, he said that the entire world is being troubled by expansionist forces and India stands against such a mindset.
He said the entire world feels troubled by "expansionist" forces and expansionism shows a "distorted mindset" which belongs to 18th century.
"India believes in policy of understanding others and making them understand but if an attempt to test it is made, then the country will give a fierce reply," he asserted.
His unambiguous message came amid continuing standoff with China at Ladakh border.
Referring to his custom of celebrating Diwali with soldiers since he assumed office in 2014, Modi said his resolve to serve and protect the country becomes stronger by spending more time with them.
He also urged troops to innovate, practise yoga and learn an Indian language they don't know from colleagues
(With inputs from PTI)