Tributes and Tunnels: Modi Honors Kargil Heroes on 25th Vijay Diwas

Prime Minister Modi and other key officials paid tribute to the brave soldiers of the 1999 Kargil War on its 25th anniversary. Modi also virtually inaugurated the Shinkun La Tunnel Project, set to be the highest tunnel in the world, enhancing connectivity to Leh.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday honored the brave soldiers who laid down their lives during the 1999 Kargil War. Modi laid a wreath at the Kargil War Memorial in Drass, Ladakh, marking the 25th Kargil Vijay Diwas. Chief of Defence Staff Gen Anil Chauhan and other military ranks joined the solemn tribute.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh paid his respects at the National War Memorial in Delhi. Union Home Minister Amit Shah described Kargil Vijay Diwas as a symbol of unwavering resolve and bravery. Shah lauded the soldiers’ valor in overcoming the enemy on the Himalayas' harsh terrain, ensuring India's pride by reclaiming Kargil.

'Today on Kargil Vijay Diwas, I salute the brave soldiers who protected the motherland with their courage. The nation will never forget their sacrifice and dedication,' Shah posted on X.

On this 25th anniversary, families of the fallen soldiers reminisced about their loved ones’ bravery during the Kargil conflict. Observed each year on July 26, Kargil Vijay Diwas commemorates the success of Operation Vijay, which saw Indian forces reclaiming strategic positions infiltrated by Pakistan in 1999.

Adding to the day's significance, Modi virtually initiated the first blast of the Shinkun La Tunnel Project. This project comprises a 4.1 km long Twin-Tube tunnel at an altitude of around 15,800 feet on the Nimu-Padum-Darcha Road, promising all-weather connectivity to Leh. Once completed, it will be the world's highest tunnel, facilitating swift military movement and boosting Ladakh's economic growth.