Drass, July 26 (KNO): As the nation marks the 26th Kargil Vijay Diwas, Union Ministers and dignitaries gathered at Drass to honor the bravery and sacrifice of the soldiers who laid down their lives during the 1999 Kargil War and to engage with the youth of India.
A major highlight of the day was an interactive event held at the Old Horse Polo Ground in Bhimbhat, where Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya addressed hundreds of students, volunteers, and cadets.
Accompanied by Minister of State for Defence Sanjay Seth and LAHDC Kargil Chairman Dr. Mohd Jaffer Akhoon, Dr. Mandaviya called upon the youth to embody the spirit of patriotism and contribute actively to building a "Viksit Bharat" (Developed India) by 2047.
“India’s youth are the architects of tomorrow,” Dr. Mandaviya said. “With the spirit of ‘Nation First’, we must move ahead with courage and commitment. The sight of a young soldier guarding Tiger Hill last night reminded me of the resolve and patriotism that should inspire every young Indian.”
Referring to India’s defence stance, he added, “India never initiates conflict, but if challenged, we respond with strength and dignity as we did in Kargil.”
Minister Sanjay Seth echoed these sentiments, urging the youth to draw strength from the courage and sacrifice of the armed forces. "The legacy of our martyrs is not just to be remembered but lived through our values, discipline, and dedication to the nation," he said.
In a poignant moment, the Kargil Vijay Diwas Padyatra was flagged off from Himabass School Bhimbhat by Surekha Mahdukar Patil, sister of Kargil martyr Naik Mahadev Namdev Patil, alongside her husband.
The tribute march featuring over 1,000 participants included youth volunteers, veterans, and civil society members walking in honor of the fallen heroes.
Commemorative events continued at the Kargil War Memorial with wreath-laying ceremonies, patriotic performances, and engagements by dignitaries with the families of martyrs and local residents.
Kargil Vijay Diwas is observed every year on July 26 to commemorate India’s victory over Pakistan in the 1999 conflict and to honor the valour of the Indian Armed Forces—(KNO)