Diwali: PM Modi takes a tank ride, distributes sweets among soldiers during visit to Rajasthan’s Longewala post

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday flew to Longewala Post in Rajasthan to celebrate Diwali with soldiers, a custom he has been observing since assuming office in 2014. (Picture source: @BJP4India/Twitter)

PM Modi said his Diwali is complete only after he comes among soldiers, adding he cannot stay away from his own on this festival. He said the more time he spends with the soldiers, the stronger his resolve to serve and protect the country gets. (Picture source: @BJP4India/Twitter)

PM Modi also rode on a tank during his visit to Longewala Post in Rajasthan. (PTI Photo)

Addressing soldiers at the forward post in Longewala, which has become a part of military legend after troops successfully thwarted numerically higher Pakistani forces in the 1971 war, Modi took a swipe at China without naming it, saying the world is troubled by "expansionist forces" and expansionism shows a "distorted mindset" that belongs to the 18th century. (PTI photo)

Delivering an unambiguous message to India's enemies, PM Modi asserted that it will give a "prachand jawab" (fierce reply) if provoked. (PTI Photo)

Extending greetings to jawans, Modi said, “I extend my Diwali greetings to you. I have brought the greetings of every Indian to you today. You may be on snow-capped mountains or in deserts, but my Diwali is complete only when I celebrate with you. My happiness doubles when I look at the joy on your faces." (Photo: PTI/ Screenshot from a video stream)