Prime Minister Narendra Modi remarked on Thursday that women's involvement in national security has reached new heights.
"Our daughters have time and again showcased their valour in our defence forces. They have played an immeasurable role in protecting our country," the Prime Minister said while addressing soldiers at Nowshera in Jammu and Kashmir.
"The role of women in the area of security of the nation is touching new heights. The women are being given a permanent commission in the army now. The doors of premier military institutions have also been opened for them now," he added.
The government had previously approved the admission of female cadets to Sainik Schools throughout the country.
The Prime Minister spoke on the occasion, reiterating his vision of 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' and stating that commitment to self-reliance in the defence sector is the only way to overhaul outmoded procurement procedures.
"Today's India is Aatmanirbhar and Sashakt! We are changing the narrative of importing defence equipment. Today, 65 per cent of our defence budget goes into buying defence equipment that is Made in India," the Prime Minister said.
"With the changing times, we have to change our defence preparedness. We are increasing our connectivity pool and laying down optical fibres across the borders," he added.
The Prime Minister celebrated Diwali with soldiers today, as he does every year. He flew from Delhi to Nowshera today with the bare minimum of security.
In his address at Nowshera, the Prime Minister said, "I am not here as a PM but as your family member to celebrate Diwali."
Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau paid tribute to soldiers who died in the line of duty.
