Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Anil Chauhan paid heartfelt tributes to the fallen heroes of the 1999 Kargil War on the occasion of Kargil Vijay Diwas, honouring the valour, sacrifice, and unyielding spirit of the Indian Armed Forces.
In a message posted by the Headquarters Integrated Defence Staff (HQ IDS), General Chauhan extended greetings to serving personnel, veterans, and the families of martyrs, stating, “Their indomitable courage and supreme sacrifice will forever inspire us. Let’s honour their legacy by serving our nation with dedication and national pride.”
Reflecting on the harsh realities of the Kargil conflict, he emphasised the extraordinary bravery displayed by Indian soldiers who reclaimed high-altitude positions under enemy fire. “Our forces fought against impossible odds, climbing near-vertical cliffs in extreme weather conditions, and yet emerged victorious,” he said, highlighting the leadership of young officers who led from the front.
CDS Chauhan also underscored the deception of the Pakistani Army, which sent regular troops disguised as militants to occupy Indian territory. He called Pakistan’s betrayal a “bitter truth” that remains etched in the nation’s memory.
“Kargil Vijay Diwas reminds every Indian of the patriotism of our valiant soldiers and the treachery we faced. But it also serves as a powerful reminder that our preparedness and unity, as shown in operations like Op Sindoor, will always overcome any challenge,” he added.
General Chauhan urged citizens to draw inspiration from the legacy of Kargil heroes, calling upon every Indian to serve the nation with “utmost dedication and national pride.”
He concluded with a tribute: “We remember with deep reverence the Bravehearts who laid down their lives in the line of duty. Their courage will continue to guide our Armed Forces and inspire the youth of India. Their supreme sacrifice shall never be forgotten.”
Earlier in the day, families of Kargil martyrs, dignitaries, and thousands of citizens gathered at Dras War Memorial in Ladakh, offering floral tributes on the 26th anniversary of India’s victory in the Kargil War—a conflict that redefined India’s military resolve and national unity.
