Officials, youth, families pay homage to soldiers at Kargil War Memorial
Drass (Ladakh): On the 26th Kargil Vijay Diwas, commemorative events and a padyatra were organized in Drass to honor the conclusion of Operation Vijay in 1999.
The events, led by Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya and Minister of State for Defence Sanjay Seth, included a 1.5-kilometre march from Himabass Public High School to Government Higher Secondary School, Bhimbet, with over 1,000 participants, including youth volunteers, military personnel, and families of fallen soldiers. The ministers visited the Kargil War Memorial, where Sanjay Seth laid a wreath in remembrance of the soldiers who lost their lives. He emphasized the importance of the soldiers’ stories in guiding future generations. Families of the deceased soldiers gathered at Lamochen Viewpoint to pay their respects, sharing memories and fostering community remembrance. During the events, Mandaviya encouraged the youth to engage in national service, asserting that victory is inherent to the nation. Seth reflected on the 1999 conflict, highlighting India’s military response to Pakistan’s actions and the reclaiming of occupied territories by the Indian Army. He reaffirmed the nation’s support for current soldiers stationed at the borders. The day also featured official programs with local officials, students, and civil society members, including tributes, flag hoisting, and remembrance ceremonies. The Indian Air Force contributed by releasing a video tribute and a collection titled “The War Diary in Photographs.” Kargil Vijay Diwas is observed annually on July 26 to commemorate the end of the Kargil War, which lasted over two months and resulted in India regaining control of strategic heights occupied by Pakistani forces.
