Indian Defence Forces fully prepared to face any challenge, says Rajnath Singh on eve of Kargil Vijay Diwas

Speaking during a commemorative event in Dras on the eve of the 27th Kargil Vijay Diwas, Rajnath Singh said, "Even as the enemy's intentions remain unchanged and it continues to employ nefarious tactics such as proxy wars & infiltration, the Indian Defence Forces stand fully prepared to face any challenge."

Paying tribute to the bravehearts who secured India's victory in the 1999 Kargil War, the Defence Minister said the courage, resolve and patriotism displayed under the harshest conditions continue to inspire both the military and the nation.

Expressing confidence in the defence forces, Rajnath Singh stated that no one dares to cast an evil eye upon India as long as the patriotism and resolve of the valiant troops of the nation remain unwavering. Their courage enables every citizen to pursue and realise their dreams without fear, he added.

According to the Ministry of Defence, Rajnath Singh interacted with the troops over Barakhana; he asserted that "While we feel a sense of pride recalling the Kargil victory, we must remember that the challenges facing us have not diminished".

He reiterated Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led Government's commitment towards the welfare of soldiers, adding that sustained emphasis is being laid on defence modernisation to ensure that the military is equipped with world-class weaponry and training.

Rajnath Singh acknowledged the defence forces for embracing the latest technologies, emphasising that their stories of valour and commitment are recognised not just nationally, but globally as well. "This century belongs to us; the future belongs to us. Given the strides we have made towards self-reliance, I am confident that our defence forces will become the best in the world in the times to come," he said.

The event 'Shaurya Bhoj' at the Vishwanathan Stadium also featured a display of drones, robotic mules and Army Martial Arts Routine drills, as well as a cultural programme showcasing the rich heritage of the region.

Rajnath Singh later joined the Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh Vinai Kumar Saxena, Chief of the Army Staff General Dhiraj Seth, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Northern Command Lieutenant General Pratik Sharma, other serving personnel, Kargil War veterans, gallantry awardees, Veer Naris, Next of Kin of the heroes, civil dignitaries and local citizens for the Shaurya Bhoj.

Before 'Shaurya Bhoj', Rajnath Singh graced 'Shaurya Sandhya' at the Kargil War Memorial, where patriotic tunes set the tone for a solemn tribute to the heroes of Operation Vijay. 10 Next of Kin of Kargil War heroes were felicitated in recognition of the courage, resilience and sacrifice of their families.

A Kalash containing 'Veeron Ki Mitti' was presented to Rajnath Singh. Inter-faith prayers offered by religious teachers were followed by the solemn Beating Retreat ceremony and the National Anthem. Thereafter, he lit lamps at the memorial in homage to the soldiers who made the supreme sacrifice during the war.

The commemorative events began with 'Yudh Sansmaran' at Lamochen View Point, attended by Kargil War veterans, Next of Kin of the fallen soldiers and other dignitaries. The programme featured the screening of the Yudh Sansmaran film and a short video recounting the extraordinary acts of courage and valour of 40 heroes of Operation Vijay.

The Next of Kin were felicitated, following which family members shared their cherished memories of the soldiers.

The afternoon programme at Vishwanathan Stadium commenced with patriotic performances by the Ladakh Scouts Regimental Centre Band. It was followed by a spectacular motorcycle display by the 'Shwet Ashwa' team of the Corps of Military Police Centre and School, demonstrating precision riding, discipline and professional excellence.

Students presented a vibrant National Integration Dance, besides glimpses of the Indian Army's growing integration of cutting-edge technologies for operations in high-altitude and challenging terrain. The programme was followed by 'Vijay Bhoj', bringing together dignitaries, veterans, serving personnel and the families of the heroes in a spirit of remembrance, gratitude and solidarity.

The celebrations will culminate on July 26, with he paying homage to the heroes of 'Operation Vijay' on behalf of the nation during the 'Shradhanjali Samaroh'.

The commemorations pay tribute to the 545 bravehearts who laid down their lives during the Kargil War: 537 personnel of the Indian Army, 5 of the Indian Air Force (IAF), one from the Border Security Force (BSF) and two civilians whose supreme sacrifice ensured India's victory and safeguarded the nation's territorial integrity. (ANI)