Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed the courage of soldiers of Armed Forces and their families on Armed Forces Flag Day on Saturday.

"On Armed Forces Flag Day we salute the indomitable courage of our forces and their families. I also urge you to contribute towards the welfare of our forces", the Prime Minister said.

A little girl pinned a flag on Prime Minister Narendra Modi's jacket and he thereafter made a contribution in a small donation box carried by the girl for the welfare of Armed Forces.

On the occasion, the Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said: "Let us express our gratitude to Armed Forces who have fought for the honour of this country. You may contribute to Armed Forces Flag Day Fund through online transaction or by writing a cheque. Contributions to Armed Forces Flag Day Fund are exempted from Income Tax."

Since 1949, December 7 is observed as the Armed Forces Flag Day throughout the country to honour the martyrs and the men in uniform who valiantly fought on borders to safeguard the country's honour.

On this occasion, the Indian Army, the Indian Air Force and the Indian Navy organise a variety of programmes to showcase their efforts towards national security. The fund collected on the Flag Day is used for the welfare of serving personnel and ex-servicemen and also to rehabilitate battle casualties.IANS