Back Kargil Vijay Diwas 2023: PM Modi commemorates fallen soldiers as celebrations begin in Ladakh

 Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh paid homage to the gallant soldiers on Kargil Vijay Diwas, commemorating India's triumphant moment over Pakistan in the historic 1999 Kargil conflict. Marking the significant occasion of Kargil Vijay Diwas, Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended his heartfelt tributes to the valiant soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice during the 1999 Kargil war, leading India to a resounding victory over Pakistan.

In a poignant tweet in Hindi, the Prime Minister underscored that Kargil Vijay Diwas stands as a poignant reminder of the extraordinary valor exhibited by India's unparalleled warriors, who shall forever remain a boundless source of inspiration for the nation. Meanwhile, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh paid his respects to the heroes of the Kargil war, laying a wreath at the solemn Dras war memorial.

According to PTI, the solemn two-day commemorative event to observe Vijay Diwas and honor the sacrifice of the 559 soldiers in the 1999 Kargil war commenced with reverence in a ceremony held here on Tuesday. From the Lamochen viewpoint, war heroes and the families of the fallen soldiers gathered to pay homage to the brave souls.

The Northern Army Commander, Lieutenant General Upendra Dwivedi, graced the occasion as the chief guest, while a cultural extravaganza followed, graced by the esteemed presence of Army Chief Gen Manoj Pande.

In the evening, heartfelt tributes were paid at the Kargil War Memorial, attended by the Army chief, along with numerous present and former top army officers.

In a poignant gesture to honor the supreme sacrifice of the soldiers during 'Operation Vijay,' 559 lamps were kindled at the Veer Bhoomi, each symbolizing a brave soldier.

Army Chief Gen Manoj Pande interacted with veterans, 'Veer Naris,' gallantry award recipients, and locals in Ladakh's Drass and conveyed his heartfelt gratitude on the eve of the 24th anniversary of Kargil Vijay Diwas.

On July 26, 1999, the Indian Army proclaimed the triumphant culmination of "Operation Vijay," declaring victory after an arduous three-month-long battle at the icy heights of Kargil, which included super-high-altitude locations like Tololing and Tiger Hill.

“On the eve of #KargilVijayDiwas 2023, General Manoj Pande #COAS interacted with #Veterans, #VeerNaris, Gallantry Award Winners, and Awam of #Dras and #Kargil and conveyed his gratitude. A mesmerizing display of military bands and cultural performances, showcasing the opulent and diverse culture of #Ladakh, was also presented during the event. #IndianArmy," the Army tweeted on Tuesday.