New Delhi: From the icy heights of the Siachen Glacier to the decks of the indigenous aircraft carrier INS Vikrant, the top brass of India’s armed forces celebrated Diwali with soldiers, airmen, and sailors stationed at some of the country’s most strategic frontiers.
At nearly 20,000 feet above sea level, the Siachen Glacier — the world’s highest militarised zone — stands as a testament to the grit of soldiers who brave sub-zero temperatures, frostbite, and relentless winds.
On the occasion of Diwali, Air Chief Marshal A. P. Singh, Chief of the Air Staff, visited the Ladakh sector, where he interacted with IAF and Army personnel deployed in the region. Commending their professionalism and dedication in protecting the nation’s borders under extreme conditions, he extended festive greetings to all. The IAF also shared photographs of his visit on social media platform X.
Meanwhile, Deputy Chief of the Air Staff Air Marshal Awadhesh Kumar Bharti celebrated the festival with troops at Siachen Glacier, acknowledging their contribution to recent operations. He also visited Terchey village near Thoise, meeting locals and conveying Diwali greetings.
Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi extended warm wishes to all citizens and troops on Diwali, urging everyone to remember the courage and sacrifice of India’s soldiers. “May the Festival of Lights and Happiness illuminate our lives with new opportunities and brighten the path to success,” the Army posted on X.
General Dwivedi spent the festival with troops of the Panchshul Brigade in Uttarakhand’s Pithoragarh and in forward areas of the Kumaon region, where he reviewed operational preparedness and ongoing nation-building initiatives. He was briefed on advancements in technology integration and coordination with other security agencies.
The Army said the Chief of Army Staff lauded the formation’s adoption of geothermal energy solutions and other green initiatives, calling them steps toward sustainable defence. He also praised innovations such as underground storage systems for water and fuel to ensure resilience during harsh winters.
Dwivedi addressed and interacted with troops, commending their professionalism, high readiness levels, and steadfast dedication in the face of difficult terrain and weather conditions.
In the south, Prime Minister Narendra Modi celebrated Diwali aboard INS Vikrant, calling the aircraft carrier a shining example of Aatmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India). Accompanied by Navy Chief Admiral Dinesh K. Tripathi, the Prime Minister spent Sunday evening watching naval air exercises, attending a cultural evening, and sharing a festive meal — Bara Khana — with Navy personnel.
