Onlykashmir.in News Desk
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Saturday declared that India’s Armed Forces stand fully prepared to counter every challenge from hostile neighbours, asserting that persistent proxy war and infiltration attempts have failed to shake the nation’s resolve. Speaking at a commemorative event in Dras on the eve of the 27th Kargil Vijay Diwas, Singh paid tribute to the soldiers whose valour secured India’s victory in the 1999 Kargil War, describing their courage as a lasting source of inspiration for the armed forces and the country alike.
Singh said the enemy’s tactics remain unchanged even as India’s defence forces stay vigilant and combat ready, adding that no adversary dares threaten the nation while the soldiers’ patriotism and determination remain unshaken. Interacting with troops during the traditional Barakhana, he stressed that while the country takes pride in the Kargil victory, continued preparedness remains essential given persisting security challenges. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to soldier welfare and highlighted ongoing efforts to modernise the forces with advanced weapons, technology and training, underlining India’s growing self-reliance in defence production.
The event, called Shaurya Bhoj, was held at Vishwanathan Stadium in Dras and featured displays of drones, robotic mules, Army martial arts drills and cultural performances celebrating Ladakh’s heritage. Singh was joined by Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh Vinai Kumar Saxena, Chief of Army Staff General Dhiraj Seth, General Officer Commanding in Chief of Northern Command Lieutenant General Pratik Sharma, Kargil War veterans, gallantry awardees, Veer Naris, families of martyrs and civil dignitaries.
Earlier in the day, the Defence Minister attended Shaurya Sandhya at the Kargil War Memorial, where patriotic performances, inter faith prayers, the Beating Retreat ceremony and lamp lighting honoured the heroes of Operation Vijay, with ten families of martyrs felicitated for their sacrifice. The commemorations also included Yudh Sansmaran at Lamochen View Point, where veterans and bereaved families recalled the events of the war, accompanied by a documentary and special tributes to forty war heroes.
The observances will culminate on July 26, when Rajnath Singh leads the nation in honouring all 545 martyrs of Operation Vijay, including 537 Army personnel, five Air Force personnel, one from the Border Security Force and two civilians who gave their lives defending India’s territorial integrity.
