On the solemn occasion of Kargil Vijay Diwas, Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute to the bravery and supreme sacrifice of Indian soldiers who laid down their lives during the 1999 Kargil War, calling their courage “unparalleled” and a lasting inspiration for future generations.
Taking to X (formerly Twitter), the Prime Minister wrote: “Heartfelt greetings to the countrymen on Kargil Vijay Diwas. This occasion reminds us of the unparalleled courage and valour of those brave sons of Mother India who dedicated their lives to protect the nation’s pride. Their passion to sacrifice everything for the motherland will continue to inspire every generation.”
President Droupadi Murmu also honoured the fallen heroes, posting: “This day symbolises the extraordinary valour, courage, and steadfast determination of our jawans. Their dedication and supreme sacrifice for the nation will forever inspire its citizens.”
Meanwhile, families of Kargil martyrs gathered on Friday at Lamochen Viewpoint in Drass, where some of the war’s fiercest battles were fought, to pay emotional tributes to their loved ones.
Rajesh, brother of a soldier who died in action at Tiger Hill, shared a moving memory: “He told us he wasn’t part of the battle, but later we found a diary where he had written that he knew he may not return. He handed that diary to a friend before climbing up.”
Surekha Shinde, another family member, said: “My brother served for five years before Kargil. I feel proud to be here and thank the Army for honouring his memory.”
Kargil Vijay Diwas, observed annually on July 26, commemorates Operation Vijay, India’s decisive military victory in 1999 when the Indian Armed Forces reclaimed key positions infiltrated by Pakistani troops in the Kargil sector of Jammu and Kashmir.
The conflict, lasting over 60 days, ended with India successfully pushing back the intruders without crossing the Line of Control. The Indian Air Force’s Operation Safed Sagar, launched on May 26, 1999, played a critical role, marking the first large-scale air operations in the region since 1971.
The day remains a symbol of India’s military strength, strategic restraint, and the enduring legacy of its soldiers’ valour.
