Pics: Spoorthi Ullal

Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru (VP)

Mangaluru, Jul 26: On the occasion of the 25th anniversary of Kargil Vijay Diwas, the Mangaluru City Corporation (MCC) held a felicitation ceremony for former soldiers on Friday, July 26, at Mangala Auditorium here.

Speaking at the event, mayor Sudheer Shetty Kannur stated, "Today we are celebrating the 25th anniversary of Kargil Vijay Diwas, and we have gathered to honour all former soldiers and those currently serving. India has always spread messages of peace and love, never initiating conflicts with neighbouring countries. Despite facing many invaders and conflicts post-independence, including with Pakistan and China, our nation stands resilient."

The mayor further announced, "The MCC has decided to grant Rs 5 lac to the families of martyred soldiers under the 'Namma Yodha' scheme. Additionally, we will name a road after Flight Lieutenant Ronald Kevin Serrao and dedicate a circle to Capt Pranjal, each with a budget of Rs 15 lac."

Brig I N Rao shared his experience, saying, "My family was initially against my decision to join the army, fearing for my safety. During the Kargil conflict, we were stationed at Sikkim and later redeployed to Jammu and Kashmir, where we faced significant challenges, including the loss of three soldiers."

Former mayor Premanand Shetty expressed gratitude, "We thank Mayor Sudheer Shetty Kannur for organizing this event and ensuring the 'Namma Yodha' initiative is included in our budget, which will greatly benefit the families of martyred soldiers."

Leader of the Opposition, Praveen Chandra Alva, emphasized the importance of such events, stating, "Organizing these events helps us understand the challenges faced by our soldiers. We should aim to double the financial support for the families of martyred soldiers in the next budget."

The event honoured and felicitated Brig I N Rao, Col Sharath Bhandary, Capt Deepak Adyanthaya, Sgt Srikanth Shetty, Naik B Prasanna, along with Anand C L, MCC commissioner; Girish Nandan, deputy commissioner of revenue; Doddananjaya and Kashinath of MCC; and the wives of Lt Murlidhar B S, Usha Kiran, and Lt Harish Kumar, Geetha Kumari.