Prime Minister Narendra Modi will maintain his tradition of celebrating Diwali with the armed forces.
He will mark the twelfth year in a row of visiting soldiers stationed at India’s borders.
Since becoming Prime Minister in 2014, Modi has celebrated Diwali away from Delhi.
He shares the festival with soldiers on active duty.
Over the past decade, the Prime Minister has celebrated Diwali in some of the country’s most difficult terrains -from the freezing heights of the Siachen Glacier and the Gurez Valley in Jammu and Kashmir to the deserts of Jaisalmer and the mountain passes of Kinnaur in Himachal Pradesh.
Each visit has carried a simple but powerful message: that the joy of Diwali is brighter when shared with those who protect the nation.
Officials have withheld details of this year’s visit for security reasons.
Officials expect the trip to occur somewhere along the northern border.
Sources indicate that the Prime Minister will meet troops from the Army and paramilitary forces. He will share sweets and extend Diwali greetings to them.
For the soldiers, these visits bring warmth and encouragement.
Many members of the armed forces say the Prime Minister’s presence recognises their service and sacrifices.
PM Modi describes the armed forces as ‘the guardians of India’s peace.’ He has stated that sharing Diwali with them is one of the most meaningful aspects of his public life.
More than a ritual, the practice emphasises the enduring relationship between India’s armed forces and the nation they serve.
Furthermore, this tradition reminds citizens that while the nation celebrates Diwali, soldiers continue their watch to ensure everyone’s safety.
Twelve years on, the ritual remains one of PM Modi’s most personal and enduring gestures of gratitude toward India’s defenders.
