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 for the country. This year, the main commemorative programme is being organised at the Kargil War Memorial in Drass, Ladakh, instead of New Delhi.

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

On the official X handle of the President’s Office, President Murmu wrote, On Kargil Vijay Diwas, I pay my humble tribute to the brave warriors who sacrificed their lives while defending the motherland. Their unparalleled valour, unwavering determination, and exceptional patriotism are remarkable examples of the glorious traditions of our Armed Forces. The nation will always remain indebted to them. The heroic tales of our brave soldiers will continue to inspire future generations to follow the path of national service and dedication towards duty.

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

Prime Minister Narendra Modi wrote, On Kargil Vijay Diwas, the entire nation expresses gratitude for the extraordinary courage and dedication of the brave soldiers who protected India's security. Even in extremely challenging circumstances, their unmatched courage will always remain a source of national pride. Their unwavering patriotism and commitment to duty will continue to inspire generations to come.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah wrote, Kargil Vijay Diwas is a symbol of the Indian Army's indomitable courage and extraordinary valour. In 1999, despite adverse conditions on the difficult snow-covered Himalayan peaks and the enemy occupying 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 safeguarded 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 exceptional courage of our Armed Forces will continue to inspire generations. I also express my deepest respect to the families of the fallen heroes. Their selfless dedication remains a lasting symbol of our nation's greatest pride.

It is significant that this year the main Kargil Vijay Diwas programme is being held 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 carried out during the winter months was detected, the Indian Army launched **Operation Vijay**, while the Indian Air Force initiated **Operation Safed Sagar**. Facing extreme challenges, including difficult 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 unparalleled courage and valour displayed by the Indian Armed Forces, the nation successfully regained control of all the lost positions on July 26, 1999. To commemorate this historic victory, Kargil Vijay Diwas is observed every year on July 26, honouring the bravery, sacrifice, and dedication of India's soldiers.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar