Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi
New Delhi, Jul 26: President Droupadi Murmu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and several senior leaders on Sunday paid heartfelt tributes to the soldiers who laid down their lives during the 1999 Kargil War, marking the 27th Kargil Vijay Diwas.
Observed every year on July 26, Kargil Vijay Diwas commemorates India's victory in Operation Vijay, when the Indian Armed Forces successfully recaptured strategic positions in the Kargil sector after a nearly three-month-long conflict with Pakistani troops in 1999.
President Droupadi Murmu paid homage to the martyrs, saying the nation would forever remain indebted to the brave soldiers who sacrificed their lives in defence of the motherland. In a post on X, she said their unmatched courage, unwavering resolve and supreme patriotism reflected the finest traditions of the Indian Armed Forces and would continue to inspire future generations.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also honoured the brave soldiers, expressing the nation's gratitude for their extraordinary courage and unwavering commitment to safeguarding India's sovereignty. He said their valour under the most challenging conditions would forever remain a source of national pride and inspiration.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh paid tribute to the heroes at the Kargil War Memorial in Dras, describing Kargil Vijay Diwas as a reminder of the courage, sacrifice and patriotism of India's armed forces. He said the country's defence forces remain fully prepared to face any challenge and reaffirmed the nation's commitment to safeguarding its sovereignty.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah said Kargil Vijay Diwas symbolises the Indian Army's indomitable courage and extraordinary valour. He paid homage to the soldiers who made the supreme sacrifice in defence of the nation, saying their bravery and dedication would always inspire the country.
The leaders joined millions of Indians in remembering the 1999 Kargil War, during which Indian soldiers fought in extreme high-altitude conditions to reclaim strategic peaks occupied by Pakistani intruders. The victory remains one of the defining moments in India's military history and is commemorated annually to honour the courage and sacrifice of the armed forces.