‘SHOW YOUR AFFECTION TO SECURITY FORCES’

Prime Minister Narendra Modi appealed to the people on Monday to develop the culture of showing their love and attachment to security forces.

Extending thanks to the people of Kashi for celebrating ‘Chhoti Diwali’ on September 29, the day when the Indian Army carried out surgical strikes in PoK, he said people should not forget the valour of the army. Addressing a huge gathering during an event at DLW ground, Modi said: “I call upon the countrymen to come forward to develop a culture of showing our attachment and bond with the soldiers of the armed forces – including army, BSF, ITBP, coast guards, navy, air force and CRPF personnel.”

He said people showed their affection for soldiers on special occasions only but it should be a regular affair so that security forces knew that they had the support of 125 crore countrymen. The PM asked the people to send Diwali greeting to security forces. “Greetings can be sent through a mobile app which can be downloaded by giving a missed call on 1922,” he said, explaining the process of sending the message.

In an emotional message, Modi said: “We are able to celebrate Diwali and other festivals peacefully only because our soldiers protect the borders with utmost dedication and commitment.”

He also thanked the people of Varanasi for performing special ‘Ganga aarti’ for soldiers and showing allegiance to them.

The PM said he would ensure cooking gas connection to each house in the next three years and added his government believed in completing projects in time.

He also honoured two pradhans for ensuring opening of maximum number of accounts under various schemes to enhance financial inclusion. BJP leader and singer Manoj Tewari presented songs on this occasion.