Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday paid heartfelt tributes to the brave soldiers who fought in the 1999 Kargil War, saying the nation not only remembers its heroes but is also ensuring that their stories of courage inspire future generations.
Addressing the 136th episode of his monthly radio programme, Mann Ki Baat, PM Modi said, “There are certain days in our lives that do not require a calendar to be remembered. Today, the 26th of July, is one such date. Today is ‘Kargil Vijay Diwas’. This day fills us with pride. This day reminds us of the extraordinary courage of our brave soldiers.”
Recalling the challenging conditions in which the war was fought, he said, “Towering peaks of Kargil, harsh weather, the challenge posed by the enemy – our soldiers faced every such circumstance, yet their spirit was greater than every challenge. They sacrificed their all for the defence of Maa Bharati. Today, on ‘Kargil Vijay Diwas’, I respectfully bow to all the brave martyrs and soldiers.”
Highlighting efforts to preserve the legacy of the Kargil heroes, the Prime Minister said today’s India is committed to passing on their stories of sacrifice to younger generations.
“The India of today not only remembers her heroes but also conveys their saga to the new generation. With this very sentiment, a special ‘Shaurya Vijay Yatra’ has been organized this year. Having started on the 14th of July from the National War Memorial in Delhi, this motorcycle rally will reach the Kargil War Memorial in Dras,” he said.
Explaining the significance of the initiative, PM Modi added, “Its message is – ‘One Ride, One Nation, One Salute.’ This journey reminds us that the sacrifice made for the nation can never be forgotten.”
The Prime Minister also highlighted India’s growing defence capabilities, saying the country is strengthening itself technologically while honouring the sacrifices of its soldiers.
“Today, alongside the courage of her soldiers, India is also continuously strengthening her technological capabilities. A few days ago, INS Mahendragiri was inducted into the Indian Navy. This modern warship has been designed and built in India itself. More than 75 percent of the materials used in it are indigenous. It is a symbol of the growing strength of an ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’,” he said.
Referring to recent achievements in defence research, he said, “This very month, the DRDO also successfully tested the Pinaka Long-Range Guided Rocket. Behind this success lies the collective perseverance of our scientists and engineers. Only two-three days ago, the DRDO also successfully tested the Kusha missile.”
PM Modi further said India continues to expand its defence production capabilities, increase defence exports and strengthen strategic partnerships with friendly nations.
“Whether it is defence production, defence exports, or political cooperation with friendly nations—India is continuously scaling new heights. Earlier this month, I was in Indonesia, where a major agreement regarding BrahMos and Astra missiles was concluded. Global confidence in India’s defence equipment and technology is growing,” he said.
The Prime Minister called upon the nation to honour the sacrifices of the Kargil martyrs by strengthening India’s security and self-reliance.
“This ‘Kargil Vijay Diwas’, let us pay tribute to our immortal martyrs and further strengthen our resolve to build a secure, capable, and self-reliant India,” he said.
