Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday said Lt. Nidhi Dubey and Lt. Swati Mahadik were two "extraordinary brave" women officers who evoked a new inspiration among millions of our countrymen.

In his monthly Mann Ki Baat programme, Modi congratulated the two officers for joining the Army earlier this month after completion of their training. The two women joined Army after their husbands died in service. 

"You (citizens) might have noticed one recent incident, a unique example of grit, determination and patriotism that was witnessed by all countrymen. The Indian Army has got two extraordinary brave women officers: they are Lieutenants Swati and Nidhi. Their husbands laid down their lives in the service of Mother India."

Lt. Swati Mahadik, the widow of Col. Santosh Mahadik, and Nidhi Dubey, widow of Naik Mukesh Dubey, joined the Indian Army as Lieutenants at the passing out parade of the Officers Training Academy (OTA) in Chennai. 

The Prime Minister said it was very natural for every countryman to have a deep sense of respect for these two bravehearts, "our Matri Shakti". 

"I convey my heartiest congratulations to both of them. They have evoked a new inspiration and a new awakening among millions of our countrymen," said Modi.