Leh: Ladakh Lieutenant Governor Kavinder Gupta on Monday celebrated Diwali with Army personnel in Leh and lauded their unwavering dedication in safeguarding the nation’s borders.
Reaffirming the commitment of the central government and the UT administration towards the welfare of serving soldiers, ex-servicemen, and their families, Gupta expressed gratitude for their selfless service under challenging conditions.
The Lt Governor was accompanied by Lt Gen Hitesh Bhalla, General Officer Commanding (GOC) 14 Corps, Maj Gen Praveen Chhabra, GOC 72 Sub Area, and other senior officers at a Diwali celebration organised by the Fire and Fury Corps, according to a Raj Bhavan spokesperson.
Extending festive greetings to the troops on behalf of the people of Ladakh, Gupta praised their valour, discipline, and commitment in defending the nation amid harsh weather and remote terrains. He noted that while citizens celebrate Diwali with their families, soldiers remain on duty, ensuring the nation’s safety and peace.
Paying tribute to the Army’s heroic role during the 1999 Kargil War and their continued vigil at Siachen Glacier—one of the world’s highest battlefields—he hailed their indomitable spirit in temperatures dropping below minus 50 degrees Celsius.
Gupta also urged citizens to contribute actively towards nation-building, emphasizing the collective goal of transforming India into a Viksit Bharat (developed nation) by 2047.
Later, the Lt Governor interacted with soldiers, shared Diwali sweets, and conveyed his best wishes for a peaceful, prosperous, and progressive year ahead.
