Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed soldiers in Ladakh Friday as he made a surprise visit to a forward post and interacted with the troops. His visit comes days after a violent faceoff with Chinese troops in which 20 Indian soldiers were killed in the line of duty in the Galwan Valley in eastern Ladakh.
Modi, accompanied by Chief of Defence Staff Gen Bipin Rawat and Army Chief MM Naravane, reached Leh in the morning.
Modi said Indian soldiers’ bravery “has sent a message to the whole world about India's strength.”
Here are the top quotes from PM’s address to the soldiers:
Those who are weak can never initiate peace, bravery is a prerequisite for peace
The tales of your bravery are echoing in every household. Bharat Mata has seen your fire and your fury
Your will power is as strong and firm as the Himalayas; the entire country is proud of you
Era of expansionism is over, this is the era of development. History is witness that expansionist forces have either lost or were forced to turn back
Our resolve for 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' becomes stronger because of you and your strong resolve
Bravery you have shown recently has sent a message to whole world about India's strength
