Nation Unites on Kargil Vijay Diwas: Tributes and Triumphs

Union Minister Jitendra Singh and Prime Minister Narendra Modi honor Kargil Vijay Diwas, emphasizing national unity and military valor. Celebrations mark the 25th anniversary of India's victory over Pakistan, with leaders paying tribute and acknowledging policy changes enhancing the nation's defense capabilities.

Union Minister Jitendra Singh affirmed on Friday that Kargil Vijay Diwas stands as a testament to national unity in the face of any challenge threatening the country's borders. "Kargil Vijay Diwas symbolizes the nation's solidarity whenever India's sovereignty is at stake," Singh remarked.

"Since Prime Minister Modi took office, various policy changes have been instituted, granting the Armed Forces more autonomy and increasing the defense budget. These measures have enabled India to become a defense exporter," Singh added. His comments coincided with the 25th anniversary of Kargil Vijay Diwas, celebrated on July 26, marking India's victory over Pakistan.

Earlier, Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid homage to the soldiers and laid a wreath at the Kargil War Memorial. Virtually, he initiated the first blast of the Shinkun La Tunnel Project. President Droupadi Murmu also honored the soldiers, praising the "courage and extraordinary valour" of the armed forces.

In a post on X, President Murmu encouraged compatriots to take inspiration from the soldiers' sacrifices. "Kargil Vijay Diwas is a moment for the nation to salute the indomitable courage and valor of our armed forces. I bow in reverence to those who made the ultimate sacrifice in Kargil in 1999," President Murmu stated. "I am confident that all countrymen will draw inspiration from their sacrifice and valour. Jai Hind! Jai Bharat!" she concluded.

Kargil Vijay Diwas, observed on July 26 annually, commemorates Operation Vijay's success in 1999, when Indian forces reclaimed strategic positions in the Kargil sector, Jammu and Kashmir, from Pakistani intruders.

(With inputs from agencies.)