Sweets were exchanged between Indian Border Security Force (BSF) personnel and Pakistan Rangers in occupied Kashmir's Samba sector on the occasion of Holi on Thursday, the Indian media reported. The Border Security Forces (BSF) personnel also hoisted the Indian flag. The ancient Hindu festival of Holi, which heralds the end of winter and the victory of good over evil, is marked with a national public holiday in India and sees revellers pour onto the streets.
Meanwhile, Sindh province has also announced a public holiday to celebrate Holi, the first time the Hindu "festival of colours" was officially marked in Pakistan. The exchange of sweets between the troops from both sides on religious festivals and days of historical significance is part of the confidence building measures between the two sides. The move comes a day after Indian and Pakistani armies exchanged sweets and greetings on the Line of Control (LoC) to commemorate Pakistan Day.