President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi led the nation in honoring the brave armed forces personnel who fought with remarkable courage in the Kargil conflict 25 years ago.
Prime Minister Modi placed a floral wreath at the Drass War Memorial to commemorate the officers and soldiers who sacrificed their lives in defense of the nation. The Indian Army had announced the successful conclusion of "Operation Vijay" on July 26, 1999, marking the end of a nearly three-month battle on the harsh, icy peaks of Kargil in Ladakh. This day is celebrated as 'Kargil Vijay Diwas' to recognize India's victory over Pakistan in the conflict.
The Rashtrapati Bhavan expressed in a post on 'X', "Kargil Vijay Diwas is an occasion for a grateful nation to pay tribute to the courage and extraordinary valour of our armed forces. I pay tribute to each soldier who made the supreme sacrifice while protecting Mother India on the peaks of Kargil in 1999 and bow in reverence to their sacred memory," the Rashtrapati Bhavan said in a post on 'X'
"I am sure that all countrymen will draw inspiration from their sacrifice and valour," it said quoting Murmu.
As the Supreme Commander of the armed forces, President Murmu's words emphasized that the nation would draw inspiration from the soldiers' sacrifice and courage.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh also paid heartfelt respects to the soldiers who gave their lives in the war. In a post on 'X', Singh remarked, "Today, on 25th anniversary of Kargil Vijay Diwas, we remember the indomitable spirit and courage of the brave soldiers who fought valiantly in 1999 war."
"Their unwavering commitment, valour and patriotism ensured that our country remained safe and secure. Their service and sacrifice will continue to inspire every Indian and our coming generations," he said.
Chief of Defence Staff Gen Anil Chauhan and all members of the armed forces reflected on the ultimate sacrifices made by the "Bravehearts." The Integrated Defence Staff headquarters stated, "We draw inspiration from the heroes of Kargil, and we will continue to honour their legacy by defending our nation with courage, honour, and sacrifice," the headquarters of the Integrated Defence Staff said.
Events were held nationwide, including at the Kargil War Memorial in Drass, to mark the occasion. Over 500 soldiers gave their lives in the conflict.
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar also paid tribute to the courageous soldiers. He stated, "On Kargil Vijay Diwas, we honor the valor and dedication of our brave soldiers. Their legacy of courage and patriotism continues to guide all Indians."
Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir, Manoj Sinha, offered his respects to those who died in the Kargil war. On the 25th anniversary of Kargil Vijay Diwas, I pay my humble tributes to brave armed forces personnel, who made the supreme sacrifice in the service of the motherland during India's victory in 'Operation Vijay'," Sinha posted on X.
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