Srinagar: Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid homage to the bravehearts who made the supreme sacrifice in the line of duty on the 25th Kargil Vijay Diwas in Ladakh. He also attended the Shraddhanjali Samaroh, where he heard the Gaurav Gatha—a briefing on the Kargil War by NCOs—and visited the Amar Sansmaran: Hut of Remembrance and the Veer Bhoomi.
Additionally, the Prime Minister witnessed the first blast of the Shinkun La Tunnel Project in Ladakh virtually. The Shinkun La Tunnel Project involves the construction of a 4.1 km long Twin-Tube tunnel at around 15,800 feet on the Nimu–Padum–Darcha Road, aiming to provide all-weather connectivity to Leh.
Addressing the Shraddhanjali Samaroh, Prime Minister Modi remarked that Ladakh is celebrating the 25th anniversary of Kargil Vijay Diwas, which reminds us that sacrifices made for the nation are immortal. He emphasized that even as time passes, the lives sacrificed to protect the nation’s borders are never forgotten. “The nation is forever indebted and deeply grateful to the mighty superheroes of our armed forces,” he added.
Recalling the Kargil War, the Prime Minister expressed his fortune at having been among the soldiers at the time and commended their bravery in executing difficult operations at high altitudes. “I salute the brave sons of the country who made the supreme sacrifice to protect the motherland,” he said. Modi highlighted that the Kargil victory was not only a military success but also an example of ‘truth, restraint, and strength.’ He pointed out Pakistan’s deceit during India’s efforts to maintain peace and stressed that “falsehood and terror were brought down to their knees by truth.”
Condemning militancy, the Prime Minister criticized Pakistan for its persistent use of militancy and proxy wars despite past defeats. “Our bravehearts will trample all the terror attempts,” he asserted. Reiterating India’s resolve to overcome development challenges in Ladakh and Jammu & Kashmir, Modi noted that on August 5th, the abrogation of Article 370 will complete five years, marking a new future full of dreams for Jammu & Kashmir. He cited examples of progress, including G20 meetings in J&K , infrastructure development, tourism, cinema halls reopening, and the resumption of the tazia procession after 35 years. “This heaven on earth is swiftly moving towards peace and prosperity,” he added.
The Prime Minister highlighted the Shinkun La Tunnel as a key development for Ladakh, providing year-round connectivity and easing hardships caused by extreme weather. He congratulated the people of Ladakh and emphasized the government’s commitment to improving their quality of life. Modi praised the government’s efforts to boost ease of living and provide services to Ladakh, noting a six-fold increase in the budget from Rs 1,100 crores to Rs 6,000 crores in the past five years. He mentioned achievements such as over 90% coverage of drinking water in households under the Jal Jeevan Mission, the upcoming Sindhu Central University, and ongoing infrastructure projects like the 13-kilometer Zojila Tunnel for all-weather connectivity. Referring to ambitious targets for border areas, Modi noted that the Border Roads Organization (BRO) has completed over 330 projects, including the Sela Tunnel, showcasing New India’s capabilities.
Emphasizing the need for upgrading military technologies, the Prime Minister stressed the importance of modern weapons and equipment. He pointed out that while past governments failed to prioritize defense reforms, the current administration has focused on making forces more capable and self-reliant.
He highlighted the increased role of the Indian defense industry in procurement and the significant rise in defense production.
Modi also lauded the Agnipath Scheme as a crucial reform to address the average age of the Indian forces and ensure they remain young and battle-ready. He criticized the politicization of this issue and the past neglect of military modernization. “The Agnipath scheme will enhance the country’s strength and provide capable youth. We have prioritized Agniveers for the private sector and paramilitary forces,” he said.
Rejecting claims that the Agnipath Scheme aims to save on pension burdens, Modi explained that pension liabilities will arise decades later and emphasized that national security is more important than politics. He criticized those who misled the youth and reminded them of past governments’ failures to build a war memorial or provide adequate bulletproof jackets. Concluding his address, the Prime Minister said “The victory of Kargil was not the victory of any government or party. It belongs to the country and is a festival of pride and self-respect.” He saluted the soldiers on behalf of the nation and extended best wishes to all on the 25th anniversary of Kargil victory.
