Drass, Kargil, July 26 (KNO): Ladakh Lieutenant Governor Kavinder Gupta on Saturday visited the Kargil War Memorial in Drass to commemorate the 26th Kargil Vijay Diwas and honour the soldiers who laid down their lives in the 1999 war.
While interacting with the media, Gupta as per the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO) said it was a deeply emotional moment for him to stand where the history of bravery was written in blood and sacrifice. “Being present here is a matter of pride. Today is not just about looking back; it’s about reminding the youth what true service to the nation means,” he said.
He emphasized the importance of instilling patriotism in future generations by remembering the courage of the Indian soldiers. “We must carry forward their legacy. The nation gives us so much and it’s our duty to contribute in return,” Gupta remarked.
Saluting both the soldiers and their families, he added, “These are not just stories of war, but stories of selfless love for the country. I bow before these brave hearts and their families who stood strong. I am thankful to Union Ministers Mansukh Mandaviya and Sanjay Seth for joining us here in Drass.”
Reflecting on the significance of bravery, Gupta urged citizens to find inspiration close to home. “Rather than waiting for heroes to be born elsewhere, we must create that spirit in our own families,” he said.
Earlier in the day, families of the martyrs laid floral tributes at the memorial. The commemorative ceremony drew large crowds as people from different walks of life came together to pay their respects.
Every year on July 26, the nation observes Kargil Vijay Diwas, a solemn reminder of India’s victory in the 1999 Kargil War during Operation Vijay, where Indian forces reclaimed territory from infiltrators—(KNO)