Kargil War Reaffirmed India’s Constant Preparedness to Defeat Enemy Designs: Dr Jitendra Singh

GG News Bureau
New Delhi, 27th July. Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh reaffirmed India’s unwavering preparedness to counter enemy threats during the 25th Kargil Vijay Diwas celebration held at the Ambedkar International Centre on Friday. Addressing the event, Dr. Singh emphasized that the Kargil War served as a powerful testament to India’s resilience and unity in the face of external challenges.

Dr. Singh highlighted that the conflict sent a clear message: when India’s integrity and borders are under threat, the nation rises as one to confront and overcome adversaries. The Kargil War, he noted, exemplified the highest values of secularism, with soldiers setting aside caste, creed, religion, and regional affiliations to defend their motherland with unwavering commitment.

Reflecting on the conflict, Dr. Singh noted that it underscored Pakistan’s persistent refusal to accept the status of Pakistan-Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK) as part of India since 1947. Despite various confrontations and proxy wars, Pakistan’s reluctance persisted, necessitating India’s adaptation in political and military strategies.

Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership since 2014, significant strategic shifts have been implemented. The army now operates with greater autonomy, evidenced by the surgical strikes and the response to the Pulwama attack. The defense budget was notably increased to ₹6.22 lakh crore, underscoring a commitment to national security.

India has transitioned from being a major importer to a significant exporter of defense equipment, identifying 5,000 defense-related items to be manufactured domestically. However, the Kargil War also highlighted the need for vigilance due to Pakistan’s unstable policies and the disconnect between its political leadership and military.

In Kashmir, post-abrogation of Article 370, there has been a marked improvement in peace and tourism. The youth of Kashmir, recognizing the value of moving forward, are eager to embrace the opportunities under Prime Minister Modi’s leadership. The issue of PoJK remains integral to India’s stance, as reaffirmed by resolutions from 1993 and 1980.

Dr. Singh praised the efforts of the Jammu and Kashmir Study Centre in raising awareness among youth and traced his own association with the group. Col. Girish Kumar Mediratta and Ashutosh Bhatnagar also attended the occasion.