25th Kargil Vijay Diwas: PM Modi Pays Tribute, Launches Tunnel Project

GG News Bureau
Ladakh, 26th July. Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the Kargil War Memorial on Friday to commemorate India’s victory over Pakistan in the 1999 war. He paid tributes to the bravehearts who made the supreme sacrifice in the line of duty.

Additionally, the Prime Minister virtually initiated the first blast of the Shinkun La Tunnel Project, which includes a 4.1-km-long twin-tube tunnel at an altitude of around 15,800 feet on the Nimu-Padum-Darcha road. This project aims to provide all-weather connectivity to Leh, as per an official statement.

On social media platform X, PM Modi stated that July 26 is a special day for every Indian, marking the 25th Kargil Vijay Diwas. “It is a day to pay homage to all those who protect our nation. I will visit the Kargil War Memorial and pay tributes to our brave heroes. Work will also commence for the Shinkun La Tunnel Project. This project is important to improve connectivity to Leh, especially during bad weather,” he said.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh also honored the indomitable spirit and courage of the brave soldiers who fought valiantly in the 1999 war. “Their unwavering commitment, valour, and patriotism ensured that our country remained safe and secure. Their service and sacrifice will continue to inspire every Indian and our coming generations,” he wrote on X.

Meanwhile, people gathered to pay heartfelt tributes at the Kargil War Memorial in Dras, Ladakh. The memorial, a symbol of valor and sacrifice, witnessed a solemn commemoration as attendees honored the soldiers who displayed immense courage during the Kargil War. The event marked a significant milestone, reflecting the nation’s gratitude and respect for the heroes who defended the country’s borders.

Twenty-five years after the Indian bravehearts secured a memorable victory in the decisive battles fought in the icy heights of Kargil, the Indian Army is honoring their valour, indomitable spirit, and supreme sacrifices with a solemn celebration in Dras. The silver jubilee celebrations of Kargil Vijay Diwas culminated in Dras on Friday, amidst a wave of patriotic fervor.

The two-day event, known as the ‘Kargil Vijay Diwas Rajat Jayanti Varsh,’ began on Thursday (July 25) in Dras. This significant milestone pays tribute to the courage and sacrifice of the Indian armed forces during the Kargil War. The commemorative events include various ceremonies and activities aimed at remembering the heroes who laid down their lives for the nation. Veterans, serving officers, and families of the fallen soldiers are participating in the celebrations, reflecting on the bravery and dedication that led to India’s victory.

Each year, ‘Kargil Vijay Diwas’ is celebrated on July 26 to honor the valour and sacrifice of the soldiers who gave the supreme sacrifice during the Kargil War. On July 26, 1999, the Indian Army announced the successful culmination of “Operation Vijay,” declaring victory after a nearly three-month-long battle at the icy heights of Kargil, including super-high-altitude locations such as Tololing and Tiger Hill. Reports indicate that more than 500 soldiers laid down their lives for the safety and welfare of the country.