Prime Minister Modi's Diwali Tradition: Strengthening National Security and Morale
A Unique Diwali Tradition
Dr. Amrik Singh Thakur
Prime Minister Narendra Modi's annual Diwali visits to border areas aim to bridge the psychological gap between the government and its armed forces. By being present at the front lines during this festival, the Prime Minister transforms the government's role from merely administrative to one of empathy. These visits serve a dual purpose: they uplift the spirits of military personnel while also demonstrating the nation's commitment to security and civil-military cooperation.
Festivals are a reflection of a civilization's identity, and Modi's Diwali pilgrimages to the borders symbolize a deeper connection between the state and its defenders. Historically, interactions between leaders and defense personnel were limited to formal events, but since 2014, Modi has made it a point to celebrate Deepawali with those stationed at the nation's most challenging frontiers.
From the icy terrains of Siachen to the forests of Bastar, Modi's visits have evolved into a significant statecraft tool, providing psychological support to troops and promoting national security policies. This annual tradition, spanning from 2014 to 2026, has become a vital part of India's defense narrative, emphasizing self-reliance and operational readiness.
In Indian culture, Diwali signifies the triumph of good over evil, and the lighting of diyas represents unity and renewal. For military personnel stationed far from home, these celebrations can amplify feelings of isolation. Modi's presence during Diwali directly addresses this issue, fostering morale and reinforcing the government's commitment to its armed forces.
The tradition began in 2014 when Modi celebrated his first Diwali with troops at Siachen Glacier, setting a precedent for prioritizing the welfare of soldiers. In subsequent years, he visited various significant locations, including historic battlefields and high-altitude posts, linking modern military readiness with India's rich military history.
Each visit has been strategically chosen to address specific security concerns. For instance, in 2017, Modi celebrated in the Gurez Valley, emphasizing stability along the sensitive Line of Control. His 2018 visit to Harsil focused on enhancing infrastructure in remote northern borders, while the 2019 celebration in Rajouri highlighted institutional stability post-Article 370.
In 2020, Modi's visit to Longewala reinforced India's anti-expansionist stance, while in 2021, he returned to Nowshera to showcase tactical advancements. The following year, he celebrated in Kargil, emphasizing the importance of robust defense capabilities for national growth. In 2023, he visited Lepcha in Sikkim, reaffirming the need for high-altitude surveillance and infrastructure readiness.
The evolution of this tradition reached new heights in 2025 and 2026, with Modi celebrating Diwali aboard INS Vikrant, India's first indigenous aircraft carrier, and later in the forests of Bastar, marking a shift towards internal security and regional peace.
These visits serve four key purposes: enhancing morale, providing strategic deterrence, catalyzing border infrastructure development, and reclaiming internal security landscapes. Modi's commitment to spending Diwali with defense personnel has become a model of strategic leadership, reinforcing the state's dedication to national defense and the welfare of its armed forces.