India observes 21 yrs of Kargil Vijay Diwas

New Delhi: India is observing the 21st anniversary of Kargil Vijay Diwas on Sunday.

Named after the successful “Operation Vijay”, Kargil Vijay Diwas is a day when the country pays homage to the Kargil War heroes and celebrates victory over Pakistan.

“Operation Vijay” was the name given to India’s limited war against Pakistan after the neighbouring country occupied the high outposts in Jammu and Kashmir’s Kargil in 1999.

On July 26, 1999, India successfully recaptured the Indian territories which were captured by the Pakistani intruders in the Kargil-Drass sector. The war was fought for over 60 days.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi in a tweet 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.”
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Sunday paid tributes to soldiers who made supreme sacrifice in protecting India’s sovereignty 21 years ago in Kargil.

The Defence Minister was accompanied by his Deputy Minister Shripad Naik, Chief of Defence Staff Gen Bipin Rawat, Indian Army Chief Gen MM Naravane, Indian Navy Chief Adm Karambir Singh and Indian Air Force Chief ACM RKS Bhadauria to pay tributes at National War Memorial near India Gate.

The Defence Minister in a tweet said, “Paid tributes to fallen soldiers of the Indian Armed Forces who exhibited exemplary valour and made supreme sacrifice during Kargil War. #CourageInKargil.”

Earlier, in a series of tweets, Mr Singh said that the unwavering courage and patriotism of our Armed Forces has ensured that India is safe and secure.

“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. #CourageInKargil,” he said.

“My gratitude to those who laid down their lives in the service of the nation. I bow to their families, who despite losing their loved ones, remained steadfast in their support of the national resolve in driving out the enemies from our territory,” Mr Singh said in another tweet.

“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. #CourageInKargil,” the Defence Minister added. (UNI)