New Delhi, 26 July (H.S.): On the occasion of Kargil Vijay Diwas, the grateful nation is paying homage to the brave soldiers who made the supreme sacrifice during the Kargil War. This year, the main commemorative programme is being held at the Kargil War Memorial in Drass, Ladakh, instead of New Delhi.

On the eve of the occasion, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh reached Drass and paid tribute to the valiant soldiers of the Indian Army who defeated the enemy during the historic conflict. Vice President C.P. Radhakrishnan, Union Home and Cooperation Minister Amit Shah, and Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha also paid their tributes to the brave soldiers of the Indian Armed Forces through their posts on X on Saturday morning.

Vice President Radhakrishnan wrote, On Kargil Vijay Diwas, the nation pays tribute to the brave soldiers of the Indian Armed Forces whose extraordinary courage, unwavering determination, and supreme sacrifice led India to a historic victory in the Kargil War and safeguarded the country's sovereignty and territorial integrity. This victory stands as a testament to India's military strength, national unity, and its unbreakable resolve to protect every inch of the motherland. The nation will always remain grateful to our brave soldiers and their families. Jai Hind.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah wrote, Kargil Vijay Diwas is a symbol of the Indian Army's indomitable courage and remarkable valour. In 1999, despite challenging circumstances on the snow-covered Himalayan peaks and the enemy holding strategically advantageous positions at higher altitudes, our brave soldiers forced the adversary to surrender through Operation Vijay. On Kargil Vijay Diwas, I salute all those brave sons of the nation who preserved India's unity and integrity by making the supreme sacrifice.

Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha wrote, On Kargil Vijay Diwas, I bow to the martyrs who made the supreme sacrifice to protect the sovereignty and honour of Mother India during Operation Vijay. The extraordinary courage of our Armed Forces will continue to inspire generations to come. I also express my deepest respect to the families of the fallen heroes. Their selfless dedication remains a lasting symbol of our nation's pride.

It is significant that this year, the main Kargil Vijay Diwas programme is being organised at the Kargil War Memorial in Drass, Ladakh, instead of New Delhi. On the eve of the event, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh arrived in Drass and paid homage to the martyrs. The Kargil War was fought for nearly 60 days, from May 1999 to July 26, 1999.

After the infiltration by Pakistani forces in the harsh winter months was detected, the Indian Army launched **Operation Vijay**, while the Indian Air Force initiated **Operation Safed Sagar**. Facing extreme challenges, including rugged mountainous terrain and sub-zero temperatures, Indian soldiers recaptured key strategic peaks such as Tololing, Tiger Hill, and Point 4875 from Pakistani forces.

Following the unmatched courage and valour displayed by the Indian Armed Forces, India successfully regained control of all the occupied positions on July 26, 1999. To commemorate this historic victory, Kargil Vijay Diwas is observed every year on July 26 to honour the bravery, sacrifice, and dedication of the nation's soldiers.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar