New Delhi, Jul 26 (IANS): As the country celebrated Kargil Vijay Diwas on Tuesday, Army chief General Manoj Pandey, Navy chief Admiral R. Hari Kumar and Air Force's Air Chief Marshal V.R. Choudhary laid wreaths at the National War Memorial in Delhi.

Kargil Vijay Diwas is celebrated across the country on this day. 23 years ago on July 26, 1999, the brave soldiers of India gave a befitting reply to Pakistan and drove out the Pakistani intruders.

On this occasion, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has saluted the spirit of the soldiers, remembering the valour of the Indian Army. "Kargil Vijay Diwas is a symbol of pride and glory of Mother Bharati. On this occasion, my salute to all the brave sons of the country who have accomplished their valour in the defence of the motherland," Modi tweeted.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has also saluted the bravery, courage and sacrifice of the armed forces on Kargil Vijay Diwas. "India salutes the bravery, courage and sacrifice of our armed forces. They fought bravely in extremely harsh conditions to protect our motherland. Their valour and indomitable spirit will always be etched as a defining moment in the history of India," he tweeted.

President Droupadi Murmu also remembered the valour and determination of the army on this occasion. "Kargil Vijay Diwas is a symbol of extraordinary valour and determination of our armed forces. I bow to all the brave soldiers who laid down their lives to protect Mother India. All the countrymen will always be indebted to them and their family members," Murmu wrote on Twitter.