Kiren Rijiju Celebrates Diwali with Soldiers, Highlights India's Border Infrastructure

Kiren Rijiju celebrated Diwali with Indian soldiers at Bumla Pass, lauding India's border developments. He noted pride in the infrastructure compared to China. During the festivities, festivities also included the unveiling of statues and discussions on border disengagement between India and China.

In a significant gesture of solidarity and patriotism, Kiren Rijiju, Minister of Parliamentary and Minority Affairs, marked Diwali by celebrating with Indian Army soldiers stationed at Bumla Pass in Arunachal Pradesh. Rijiju praised the advancements in India's border infrastructure, especially in comparison to Chinese developments. His visit emphasized national pride in India's capability to secure its borders.

Rijiju shared his experiences via social media, expressing gratitude to the army personnel. 'Celebrating Diwali with our brave soldiers made me feel proud and grateful. It is because of their dedication and courage that our country is safe,' he mentioned in a post on X. He also recounted attending celebrations at the Tawang Army Helipad earlier in the day.

Rijiju's visit coincided with the Run For Unity event and the unveiling of the 'Desh Ka Vallabh' statue of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. He also inaugurated the Major Ralengnao Bob Khathing Museum of Valour at Tawang and engaged with a Tangkhul Naga Group from Manipur involved in the statue's unveiling. Meanwhile, Indian troops initiated patrolling in the Demchok sector following an agreement with China to disengage and patrol based on mutual perceptions of the Line of Actual Control. Indian and Chinese armies also partook in a friendly exchange of sweets at multiple border locations to mark Diwali.

(With inputs from agencies.)