PM Modi roars in Ladakh, gives clear message to China

Leh (Nimu)/ New Delhi: (News on India-China stand-off) Friday's schedule for Prime Minister Narendra Modi goes like this: He left for Ladakh from New Delhi at 6.30 AM in the morning. At around 11 am in Nimu, at the height of 11,000 ft where oxygen levels are low and breathing is difficult, he addressed Indian troops, raised their morale. When he came back in the capital to the evening, he had four long meetings that lasted till late at night at the time of writing this report.

Coming back to his Ladakh visit, PM Modi interacted with troops at Nimu. Nimu is surrounded by the Zanskar range and is on the banks of river Indus. Pm Modi spoke at length about how the virtues of peace, friendship and courage have been a part of India's culture since time immemorial. He recalled that India has always given a befitting reply to anyone who has tried to disturb the prevailing atmosphere of peace and progress.

Giving a clear message to China PM Modi said that 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, airpower, space power and the strength of our army. Modernization of weapons and the upgradation of infrastructure has enhanced our defence capabilities multifold. Prime Minister recalled that Indian soldiers had a long history of bravery and competence in global military campaigns, including in the two World Wars.

PM said that the time for expansionism is over. This is the era of development. He recalled that it is this mindset of expansionism that 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 the 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.

Modi 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 the creation of CDS, construction of a grand National War Memorial, the fulfilment of OROP after decades and steps to ensure the well-being of the families of the armed forces personnel.

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