New Delhi, 03 July (H.S.): Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla and several political leaders on Friday paid tribute to Param Vir Chakra awardee Captain Manoj Kumar Pandey on his martyrdom day, remembering his extraordinary courage and supreme sacrifice during the 1999 Kargil War.

In a post on X, Om Birla said Captain Manoj Kumar Pandey displayed exceptional bravery, leadership, and unwavering dedication to the nation while leading operations in the Batalik sector during the Kargil conflict. He said that despite extremely challenging circumstances, the young officer led his troops from the front and laid down his life in the defence of the motherland. Birla added that Captain Pandey's courage, sense of duty, and sacrifice would forever remain etched in the glorious history of the Indian Army, and that his life and devotion to the nation would continue to inspire generations.

Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan also paid homage, saying every particle of India's soil would forever remain proud of brave sons like Captain Manoj Kumar Pandey, who made the ultimate sacrifice to uphold the honour of the nation.

Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Law and Justice Arjun Ram Meghwal said Captain Pandey's unparalleled valour, unwavering patriotism, and supreme sacrifice remain a lasting source of inspiration for every Indian. He added that the nation would always remain indebted to his courage and sacrifice.

Union Textiles Minister Giriraj Singh also remembered the fallen hero, stating that Captain Pandey's supreme sacrifice in safeguarding India's sovereignty and territorial integrity would continue to inspire generations to serve the nation with dedication.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath paid tribute, saying Captain Pandey's unmatched bravery and supreme sacrifice in defence of the motherland would forever remain an enduring inspiration for the nation.

Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta said his extraordinary courage and ultimate sacrifice for protecting the nation's unity and integrity would continue to motivate citizens toward national service and a strong sense of duty.

Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma and Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav also paid their respects to Captain Pandey on his martyrdom day.

Aam Aadmi Party National Convener Arvind Kejriwal saluted the Kargil hero, saying his unmatched courage and supreme sacrifice would continue to inspire every citizen of the country.

Captain Manoj Kumar Pandey is remembered every year on July 3 for his extraordinary heroism during Operation Vijay in the 1999 Kargil War. He attained martyrdom on July 3, 1999, while leading his troops in capturing the strategically important Khalubar Top in the Batalik sector from Pakistani intruders. He was posthumously awarded the Param Vir Chakra, India's highest wartime gallantry award.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar