PM Modi Honors Kargil Heroes on 25th Kargil Vijay Diwas, Criticizes Pakistan

New Delhi: On the 25th anniversary of Vijay Diwas, Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the Kargil War Memorial in Dras to honor the memory of soldiers who gave their lives during the 1999 Kargil War. Speaking at the Shradhanjali Samaroh, PM Modi praised the bravery and determination of the Indian armed forces, emphasizing, “In Kargil, we not only emerged victorious but also demonstrated an exemplary model of truth, restraint, and strength. We defeated falsehood and terror through the power of truth.”

Modi’s address also took a critical tone towards Pakistan, highlighting the ongoing tension between the two countries. He remarked, “Pakistan has faced defeat for all its immoral and shameful actions in the past. Yet, it has not learned from its historical mistakes.” This pointed criticism underscores the persistent issues in the relationship between India and Pakistan, especially in light of the Kargil conflict.

In a significant development, PM Modi also initiated the first blast of the Shinkun La Tunnel Project via virtual ceremony. This high-profile infrastructure endeavor will see the construction of a 4.1-kilometer twin-tube tunnel at an altitude of around 15,800 feet on the Nimu-Padum-Darcha road. Upon completion, it will be the highest tunnel in the world, significantly improving all-weather access to Leh.

Vijay Diwas, observed every July 26, marks the conclusion of the Kargil War in 1999 and celebrates India’s decisive victory over Pakistani forces in the Ladakh region. The conflict resulted in the loss of 527 Indian soldiers, with 1,363 wounded and one prisoner of war, Fl Lt K Nachiketa, whose MiG-27 was shot down. This day remains a poignant reminder of the immense sacrifices made and the enduring spirit of the Indian military.