New Delhi, July 27: India on Saturday commemorated the 26th anniversary of its victory in the 1999 Kargil War, with President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi leading the nation in paying tribute to the soldiers who died during the nearly three-month-long conflict with Pakistan.
The day, observed annually as Kargil Vijay Diwas, marks the culmination of Operation Vijay, a military offensive launched to flush out Pakistani intruders from strategic mountain peaks in Kargil, in the northern union territory of Ladakh.
In a post on social media platform X, President Murmu described the day as a symbol of the extraordinary valour, courage and steadfast determination of the Indian armed forces. “Their dedication and supreme sacrifice for the nation will forever inspire its citizens,” she wrote.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi said the anniversary was a reminder of the unparalleled bravery of India’s soldiers. “Their spirit to sacrifice themselves for the motherland will inspire every generation,” he said.
Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh also paid his respects, calling the sacrifices made during the Kargil War a timeless reminder of the unwavering resolve of the armed forces. “India shall remain forever indebted to their service,” he said in his post on X.
The Kargil War broke out in May 1999 after Pakistani soldiers and militants occupied strategic heights along the Line of Control. India responded with a large-scale military operation to reclaim the territory, which ended in victory by late July.
