Prime Minister Narendra Modi (PM Modi) on Sunday paid homage to the soldiers of the Indian Armed Forces on the 27th Kargil Vijay Diwas, honouring their courage and sacrifice during the 1999 Kargil War. The day commemorates India’s victory in Operation Vijay and remembers the 527 soldiers who laid down their lives while reclaiming strategic peaks from Pakistani intruders in the Kargil sector.

In a post on X, PM Modi said the nation remains grateful to the brave soldiers whose courage protected India’s sovereignty.

“On Kargil Vijay Diwas, our nation expresses gratitude to the brave soldiers for their extraordinary courage and commitment towards securing India. Their valour in the face of the most formidable conditions will forever remain a source of national pride. Their unwavering patriotism and devotion to duty will continue to inspire generations.”

Kargil Vijay Diwas marks India’s 1999 victory

India observes Kargil Vijay Diwas every year to mark the successful completion of Operation Vijay, which ended the Kargil conflict fought between May and July 1999. The war, considered the only conventional conflict between two nuclear-armed neighbours, was fought across the challenging terrains of Kargil, Dras, Batalik, Mushkoh and Kaksar in Ladakh.

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Indian soldiers fought at altitudes above 5,000 metres under extreme weather conditions, battling freezing temperatures, thin air and heavily fortified enemy positions. The Army successfully recaptured the occupied heights without crossing the Line of Control, a move that drew international recognition for its professionalism and restraint.

The victory has since become a defining chapter in India’s military history and continues to influence the country’s defence preparedness and strategic planning.

Amit Shah, Rajnath Singh and Rahul Gandhi pay tribute

Union Home Minister Amit Shah also remembered the soldiers, calling Kargil Vijay Diwas a symbol of the Indian Army’s courage and determination.

“‘Kargil Vijay Diwas’ stands as a symbol of the Indian Army’s indomitable courage and extraordinary valour. In 1999, despite facing adverse conditions and enemy positions situated at high altitudes amidst the treacherous, snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas, our brave soldiers forced the enemy to their knees through ‘Operation Vijay’. On ‘Kargil Vijay Diwas’, I pay tribute to all those brave sons who made the ultimate sacrifice to uphold the nation’s integrity.”

Speaking at the Kargil War Memorial in Dras on Saturday, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said the security challenges faced by India continue even today.

“We have to remember that even today challenges have not reduced; the intent of infiltrators hasn’t changed, and even today it adopts tools like a proxy war or infiltration.”

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He added, “I am fully assured that our Army is fully prepared for any such challenges.”

Rajnath Singh also said the government is working to modernise the armed forces through advanced technology, improved training and the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.

Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi also paid tribute to the fallen soldiers.

“A humble tribute to all the brave soldiers who made the supreme sacrifice while defending India’s borders, on Kargil Victory Day. The nation will forever remain indebted to your courage, valor, and supreme sacrifice.”

FAQs:

Why is Kargil Vijay Diwas celebrated every year?

Kargil Vijay Diwas is observed on July 26 to commemorate India’s victory in the 1999 Kargil War and honour the 527 soldiers who made the supreme sacrifice.

What did PM Modi say on the 27th Kargil Vijay Diwas?

PM Modi paid tribute to the Kargil heroes, saying their extraordinary courage, patriotism and sacrifice will continue to inspire generations of Indians.