Kargil Vijay Diwas: PM Modi Hails ‘Unparalleled Courage’ of Soldiers on 26th Anniversary of Victory
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday led the nation in paying tribute to the armed forces on the 26th anniversary of Kargil Vijay Diwas. The day commemorates India’s victory in the 1999 Kargil War against Pakistan. In a message, the Prime Minister said the occasion is a reminder of the bravery of the soldiers who laid down their lives for the country.
“This occasion reminds us of the unparalleled courage and valor of those brave sons of Mother India who dedicated their lives to protect the nation’s pride,” Prime Minister Modi stated. He emphasized that their spirit of sacrifice will continue to inspire future generations.
President Droupadi Murmu also paid homage to the martyrs, stating that the day symbolizes the “extraordinary valour, courage, and unwavering determination of our troops”. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh honored the soldiers who fought under extremely challenging conditions, saying, “I pay heartfelt tributes to our bravehearts who displayed extraordinary courage, grit and determination in defending our nation’s honour in the toughest of terrains”.
Kargil Vijay Diwas is observed annually on July 26 to mark the successful conclusion of “Operation Vijay,” the Indian military’s response to oust Pakistani intruders who had stealthily occupied strategic heights in the Kargil district in May 1999. After nearly two months of intense fighting in treacherous high-altitude terrain, the Indian Army successfully reclaimed all occupied positions. More than 500 Indian soldiers lost their lives in the conflict.
Across the country, solemn ceremonies and patriotic events are being held to remember the fallen heroes. The main commemorative event takes place at the Kargil War Memorial in Dras, where senior military officials and dignitaries lay wreaths to pay their respects. This year’s anniversary includes a two-month nationwide tribute organized by the Indian Army to engage with local communities and honor the families of the martyrs.
