Nation Observes 26th Kargil Vijay Diwas: President Murmu and PM Modi Lead Tributes to Valiant Martyrs
NEW DELHI, India – July 26, 2025: India today solemnly commemorated the 26th anniversary of Kargil Vijay Diwas, honoring the unwavering courage and supreme sacrifice of its soldiers during ‘Operation Vijay’ in 1999. President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Modi led the nation in paying heartfelt tributes to the martyrs who secured India’s victory on the icy heights of Kargil.
Remembering ‘Operation Vijay’
Kargil Vijay Diwas is observed every July 26, marking the successful completion of ‘Operation Vijay,’ in which the Indian Armed Forces reclaimed strategic mountain tops in the Kargil district of Jammu & Kashmir (now Ladakh) from Pakistani intruders. The nearly three-month-long conflict was fought on mountain terrain at upwards of 18,000 feet and officially came to an end on this date in 1999, with India declaring victory. During the operation, over 500 Indian soldiers laid down their lives for their motherland.
The war began in May 1999 when clandestine infiltration by Pakistani forces and militants occurred in the occupation of Indian positions along the Line of Control with the aim of severing the strategically vital Srinagar-Leh National Highway 1A. India launched a fast counter-military operation, mobilizing its army and air force in an operation within high-altitude conditions to evict the intruders.
Remembering the Bravehearts
In her message, President Droupadi Murmu remarked that Kargil Vijay Diwas “symbolizes the extraordinary valor, courage, and steadfast determination” of India’s soldiers and that their “dedication and supreme sacrifice for the nation will forever inspire citizens.” The President’s tribute underscored the everlasting legacy of the Kargil heroes.
Prime Minister Modi also paid homage, remarking that the day is a reminder of the “unparalleled courage and valor” of those soldiers who gave their lives guarding the pride of the nation. He stated that those who have sacrificed everything for the motherland “will continue to inspire every generation.” Defense Minister Rajnath Singh also paid his tributes, referring to “extraordinary courage, grit, and determination” shown by those bravehearts.
Remembrance Across the Nation and Legacy
Ceremonies and seminars in remembrance of our fallen heroes are taking place throughout the nation. These include wreath-laying programs at martyrs’ memorials, tribute services, and educational programs in schools and colleges on the themes of patriotism and unity. Despite its short duration, the Kargil War has emerged as a magnificent symbol of the gallantry and steadfastness of its armed forces in terms of delivering sovereignty to India.
The war also underlined the trials posed by high-altitude warfare and how strategically important an issue border security is. At the time of conflict, it was Atal Bihari Vajpayee who was India’s prime minister, while Nawaz Sharif was heading Pakistan. The undeniable involvement of the Pakistani military under General Pervez Musharraf was confirmed later, despite gross denial in the initial stages. However, the valor of the Indian soldiers, Captain Vikram Batra and Captain Manoj Kumar Pandey, who posthumously were awarded the Param Vir Chakra (PVC), continues to motivate one and all.
