New Delhi, Feb 26 On the first anniversary of Balakot airstrikes on Wednesday, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh saluted Indian Air Force for its bravery and courage exhibited during the air strikes.
Taking to his Twitter handle Defence Minister Rajnath Singh wrote, "India today celebrates the first anniversary of Balakot airstrikes. It was a successful counter terror operation launched by the fearless @IAF_MCC air warriors. With the success of Balakote air strikes India has clearly demonstrated its strong will against terrorism."
Union Minister Piyush Goyal wrote, "India celebrates the 1st anniversary of
@IAF_MCC's daring #BalakotAirstrike. Saluting PM @NarendraModi ji's decisive leadership and the courage of our air warriors. In New India, we clearly demonstrate our strong will to protect the motherland from terrorism."
"Salute the fearless air warriors of @IAF_MCC on the 1st anniversary of the #BalakotAirStrikes. A bold decision of #ModiGovt that hit the enemies of India in their own 'safehouse' and witnessed the emergence of a #NewIndia that does not cower to terror and terrorists" wrote Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.
Social media is flooded with reactions from common users as well who said they are filled with pride and love for Indian armed forces.
A user wrote, "On the 1st anniversary of #Balakot, big salute to @IAF_MCC air warriors who had carried out an air strike with precision. Jai Hind. Bharat Mata Ki Jai."
A post read, "Nation Salutes to Fit & Fierce Fighters of our Indian Air Force who conducted #BalakotAirStrikes last year on this day."
Following Pulwama terror bombing, in which 40 CRPF personnel were killed on February 14, the Balakot airstrike was conducted by the Indian Air Force (IAF) in the early morning hours of February 26 when the Indian warplanes launched an airstrike targeting a Jaish-e-Mohammed terrorist camp in Balakot in Pakistan's Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province.
( With inputs from IANS )