Honoring the Heroes of Kargil
Prime Minister Narendra Modi marked the 25th anniversary of India’s victory over Pakistan in the Kargil War with a tribute to the fallen soldiers. At the Drass War Memorial, Modi laid a floral wreath to honor the officers and soldiers who sacrificed their lives for the nation. On July 26, 1999, the Indian Army concluded “Operation Vijay,” securing victory after nearly three months of intense combat in the icy heights of Kargil, Ladakh. This day is commemorated annually as ‘Kargil Vijay Diwas.’
Celebrating the Silver Jubilee of Victory
To celebrate the silver jubilee of Kargil Vijay Diwas, the Indian Army organized a two-day event, the ‘Kargil Vijay Diwas Rajat Jayanti Varsh,’ beginning on July 25 in Drass. This significant milestone honors the bravery and sacrifice of the Indian armed forces during the Kargil War. The events include various ceremonies and activities to remember the heroes who laid down their lives for the nation. Veterans, serving officers, and families of the fallen soldiers participated in the celebrations, reflecting on the courage and dedication that led to India’s victory.
PM Modi’s Key Messages
During the commemoration, PM Modi delivered a powerful speech, emphasizing India’s resolve and the sacrifices of its soldiers:
Immortal Sacrifices: “Today, this great land of Ladakh is witnessing the 25th anniversary of Kargil Vijay Diwas. Kargil Vijay Diwas tells us that the sacrifices made for the nation are immortal. Those soldiers will be remembered forever, and we are indebted to their sacrifice.”
Defeating Terrorism: “I want to tell the masters of terror that their evil designs will never succeed. Our enemy will be given a befitting reply. India will defeat every challenge coming in the way of the development of Ladakh or Jammu and Kashmir.”
Personal Reflections: “During the Kargil war, I was among the soldiers, and being here again has taken me back to those times. It was the most difficult terrain, and I bow my head for the martyrs of the Kargil war.”
Pakistan’s Failures: “Pakistan has failed in all its nefarious attempts in the past. But Pakistan has not learned anything from its history. It is trying to keep itself relevant with the help of terrorism and proxy war.”
Direct Address to Terrorists: “Today, I am speaking from a place where the masters of terror can hear my voice directly. I want to tell these patrons of terrorism that their nefarious intentions will never succeed. Our soldiers will crush terrorism with full force, and the enemy will be given a befitting reply.”
Development and Progress: “Be it Ladakh or Jammu and Kashmir, India will defeat every challenge that comes in the way of development. In a few days, on August 5, it will be five years since Article 370 was abolished. Jammu and Kashmir is talking about a new future, talking about big dreams.”
Economic and Social Growth: “Along with infrastructure development, the tourism sector is also growing rapidly in Ladakh and Jammu and Kashmir. After decades, a cinema hall has opened in Kashmir. After three and a half decades, the Tazia procession has been taken out in Srinagar for the first time. Our heaven on earth is rapidly moving towards peace and harmony.”
Self-Reliance in Defense: “I am happy that our army has given a list of 5,000 items that will be made and not procured from outside the country.”
The 25th anniversary of Kargil Vijay Diwas served as a reminder of the valor and sacrifice of India’s armed forces. PM Modi’s stern message to Pakistan and his emphasis on development in Jammu and Kashmir highlighted India’s commitment to peace and progress. The silver jubilee celebrations not only honored the past but also looked forward to a future of self-reliance and growth.
(With inputs from agencies)
