PM Modi in Ladakh pays tribute to martyred soldiers, says era of expansionism over, but doesn’t mention China

Paying tributes to the 20 Army men killed in a violent face off with Chinese troops in east Ladakh, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said the bravery shown by the soldiers has sent a message about the strength of India.

Amid ongoing tension at borders with China in Eastern Ladakh, the prime minister paid a visit to Leh and forward locations on Friday morning to review the ground security situation, barely 18 days after a violent stand-off.

Addressing Army, Air Force and ITBP personnel during his surprise visit to Ladakh, he said India's resolve for 'atmanirbhar Bharat' (self-reliant India) becomes stronger because of you and your strong resolve.

He told the personnel that their will power is as strong and firm as the Himalayas and the whole country is proud of them.

He said bravery is a prerequisite for peace. The weak can never establish peace. Adding that the age of expansionism is over and now the time for development has come, PM Modi said that the government is putting adequate focus on the requirement of the armed forces. But in his address he did not mention China at all.

He was greeted by the chants of ‘Bharat Mata Ki Jai’ and ‘Vande Mataram’ when he arrived at Nimu, Ladakh.

The Prime Minister, accompanied by Chief of Defence Staff General Bipin Rawat and Army Chief General Manoj Mukund Naravane also interacted with injured soldiers at the military hospital in Leh.

With input from agencies