PM Modi celebrates Diwali with armed forces, greets nation

Prime Minister Narendra Modi observed Diwali on Saturday by celebrating with members of India's armed forces, reinforcing the government's commitment to recognizing the contributions of military personnel during the festive season. The occasion highlighted the tradition of national leadership engaging with defence services during major festivals. In a separate engagement, Modi met Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar to exchange Diwali greetings, continuing the customary practice of senior government officials extending festival wishes to one another. The exchanges reflected the significance of Diwali across India's political and institutional landscape. Modi's celebration with military personnel underscored the symbolic importance of including armed forces in the nation's festive observances, a practice that has become part of the government's annual Diwali protocol.