Giving out a clear message to China, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday, July 3, said that India has always given a befitting reply to anyone who has tried to disturb the prevailing atmosphere of peace and progress.
“India is committed to peace and friendship but this commitment to peace should not be seen as India’s weakness. Today India is becoming stronger, be it in naval might, air power, space power and the strength of our army,” he said while addressing the troops at Nimu in Ladakh on a surprise visit.
He also pointed out that modernization of weapons and upgradation of infrastructure has enhanced the defence capabilities many fold. Modi also recalled that Indian soldiers had a long history of bravery and competence in global military campaigns, including in the two World Wars.
Stating that the time for expansionism is over, Modi said that it was the era of development. He said that the mindset of expansionism did great harm.
He added that 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. He further shared that expenditure on border infrastructure has been enhanced three times.
The 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.
Remembering the sacrifice at Galwan Valley where Indian and Chinese forces had lately clashed each other, Modi said that the martyrs were proud sons of Mother India who made the supreme sacrifice at the Galwan Valley. “Those who were martyred belong to all parts of India and epitomize our land’s ethos of bravery.” He said.
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.
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