PM Modi Celebrates Diwali with Security Forces in Bastar
Celebrating Diwali with Security Personnel
PM Modi in Bastar on Sunday. (Photo: IANS)
Bastar, Nov 8: On Sunday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the CoBRA Operations Base located in Karanpur, situated in Chhattisgarh's Bastar district, to celebrate Diwali with the security forces and commend their bravery and sacrifices in combating Naxalism.
This facility has served as both a training center and a launchpad for counter-Naxal operations in the Bastar region and Abujhmad, areas that were previously strongholds of Maoist insurgency.
During his address to the personnel at the base, PM Modi emphasized the significance of this year's Diwali, noting that the nation is celebrating the festival at a pivotal moment in its long-standing struggle against Maoist violence.
He remarked, "This Diwali is unlike any other in the past 40–50 years. It marks the first time our nation celebrates a Diwali free from Naxalism and Maoist terror. For the first time, every district in the country is liberated from Naxal influence, allowing millions to live without fear of Naxalism."
PM Modi hailed this achievement as a remarkable milestone for the country, attributing much of the credit to the security personnel present.
"This is an extraordinary accomplishment, and a significant portion of the recognition belongs to you. It honors the countless brave individuals like you, our soldiers, and security forces. That is why I am here today to celebrate Diwali with you," he stated.
The Prime Minister expressed that while millions across India and the globe were celebrating the festival with their families, he chose to spend this occasion with the security forces, whom he regards as part of his family.
"Today, millions of Indians are joyfully celebrating the revered festival of lights throughout the nation and beyond. People are traveling from afar to reunite with their families. I have come here to join you in the Diwali celebrations. Those who protect our nation at its borders and within, the defenders of our country, are like family to me," he added.
Highlighting his personal connection with the security personnel, PM Modi acknowledged the transformation in Bastar, crediting the security forces for their dedication and sacrifices in eradicating the Naxal threat and fostering development.
"You are all part of my family. This time, I have come to celebrate Diwali in the Bastar forests, an area where Naxalism posed a significant threat. Thanks to your sacrifices and commitment, that threat has been eliminated, ushering in a new era of development," PM Modi concluded.