Defence Minister Rajnath Singh today paid tributes to the Kargil soldiers at the National War Memorial in New Delhi. (Twitter/Rajnath Singh)
Kargil Vijay Diwas Live Updates: On the occasion of the 21st anniversary of India’s victory over Pakistan in the Kargil war, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday paid tributes and recalled the valour of the Indian armed forces while saying the enemy perched atop heights was defeated by brave soldiers.
Taking to Twitter earlier in the day, the prime minister said: “On Kargil Vijay Diwas, we remember the courage and determination of our armed forces, who steadfastly protected our nation in 1999. Their valour continues to inspire generations.”
During the war, the Indian Army evicted Pakistani intruders and succeeded in recapturing Tiger Hill and other posts as a part of ‘Operation Vijay’. Indian soldiers had secured this victory after a three-month conflict that led to a loss of lives from both sides — the Indian side lost nearly 490 officers, soldiers, and jawans.
In order to commemorate India’s win in the war, Kargil Vijay Diwas is celebrated annually on July 26. However, celebrations are likely to be muted this year in wake of the coronavirus pandemic.
The Victorious Indian Army Jawans of 18 Grenadiers after recapturing the Tiger Hill in Drass sector of Jammu and Kashmir. (Express archive)
Karnataka Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa also paid his tributes to the soldiers at National Military Memorial Park.
On social media posts or remarks that demoralise soldiers, Modi said: "Sometimes, people forward things that are detrimental to the 'ongoing situation'. They should post things that lift the morale and spirit of Indian soldiers." "I urge all of you to visit www.gallantryaward.gov.in and read about our brave soliders," he added.
While paying his tributes to the Indian soldiers who died in action during the Kargil war, Modi said, "Friends, at that point in time, I, too, was blessed with the opportunity to go to Kargil and witness the gallantry of our jawans. That day is one of the most precious moments of my life."
The Prime Minister continued: "Twenty-one years ago on this day, our Army won the Kargil war. India was trying to have cordial relations with Pakistan but is said that it is in the nature of the wicked to have enmity with everyone for no reason. Pakistan undertook their misadventure with sinister plans to capture India's land and to divert attention from its internal conflicts."
"The the day is very special, as the war happened at a time and in a situation that nobody can forget. India wanted good relations with Pakistan, but that did not happen," Modi said.
"On behalf of our soldiers, I not only salute the soldiers of the Kargil War but also their mothers," PM Modi told the nation.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is addressing the nation through his monthly radio programme Mann ki Baat.
The Prime Minister also said "India remains eternally grateful to our soldiers for their bravery".
Taking to Twitter, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said: "On Kargil Vijay Diwas, we remember the courage and determination of our armed forces, who steadfastly protected our nation in 1999. Their valour continues to inspire generations. Will speak more about this during today’s #MannKiBaat, which begins shortly. #CourageInKargil."
Today, July 26, 2020, is the 21st anniversary of India's victory against Pakistan in the Kargil war. On this day in 1999, the Indian Army successfully completed ‘Operation Vijay’, ending the three-month war in the Kargil district of Jammu and Kashmir and along the Line of Control. (Express archive photo)
External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar tweeted: "On Vijay Diwas, salute the supreme sacrifice of our soldiers. Their commitment and resolve keeps our nation safe & secure."
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, MoS Defence Shripad Naik and three service chiefs today paid tributes at the National War Memorial in the national capital.
Sand artists in Prayagraj pay tribute to the soldiers on the occassion of Kargil Diwas.
Taking to Twitter on Sunday morning, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said: "Kargil Vijay Diwas is indeed the celebration of India’s proud tradition of outstanding military service, exemplary valour and sacrifice. The unwavering courage and patriotism of our Armed Forces has ensured that India is safe and secure. I am also grateful to those who despite becoming disabled in battle, continue to serve the country in their own ways and have set examples worthy of emulation by the Nation." He added: "On the 21st anniversary of Kargil Vijay, I would like to salute the brave soldiers of the Indian Armed Forces who fought the enemy under the most challenging conditions that the world had witnessed in the recent history."
The Indian Army today saluted the "undaunted courage, indomitable valour & sacrifice of our heroes".
Today, July 26, 2020, is the 21st anniversary of India's victory against Pakistan in the Kargil war. On this day in 1999, the Indian Army successfully completed ‘Operation Vijay’, ending the three-month war in the Kargil district of Jammu and Kashmir and along the Line of Control (LOC).