New Delhi, Oct 30 (IANS): Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday lauded the courage of our soldiers and thanked the nation for sending them messages.

"From last few months our jawans (soldiers) are sacrificing their lives, we should celebrate this Diwali in their name," Modi said while speaking on Mann Ki Baat, his monthly radio address.

Modi also applauded Indian soldiers for their undying love and sacrifice for the country and said that this Diwali dedicated to them.

"Every citizen of the country is proud of our soldiers," he said.

"People from walks of life sent messages of love and encouragement for our jawans (soldiers), just as they light candles for their well being,' he added.

Modi also said that #Sandesh2Soldiers hashtag was used so much by everyone and we were flooded with well wishes and love for jawans from citizens.

"I also have to thank the citizens of the nation for their support and love for our security forces and jawans (soldiers) protecting us," he said.

Recognising the works of the Armed forces, Modi said, "Be it BSF (Border Security Force), CRPF (Central Reserve Police Force), Assam Rifles, ITBP (Indo Tibetan Border Police), Navy, Air Force, our jawans are on duty and guarding us. That is why we are celebrating Diwali joyfully," the Prime Minister said.

Modi also said that when we remember our soldiers on festivals we give a message that we are with them.

More than 10 lakh messages have came for soldiers from across the nation.