Just like the Vijay Diwas 1971, Kargil Vijay Diwas marks India’s victory against Pakistan during the 1999 Kargil War fought along the Line of Control (LOC). This battle lasted almost two months, from May 3 to July 26, 1999. Unfortunately, the war resulted in 527 Indian casualties. Since then, numerous events and ceremonies are organized annually on July 26 by both government agencies and the Indian Armed Forces to honor these brave soldiers.
Defence Minister’s Visit
On this day, the government and soldiers visited the Kargil War Memorial at Dras in Ladakh. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh laid a wreath at the memorial before visiting the Hut of Remembrance Museum, created to honor fallen soldiers. Additionally, earlier that day, he met veterans as well as families of martyred soldiers.
Saluting the Sheer Bravery
At the celebrations, he paid his respects to those who had given their lives for India and encouraged them to carry on the noble work they were doing. He noted how the efforts of these soldiers have enabled India to be powerful and secure – and noted this was why so much effort goes into commemorating them on Kargil Vijay Diwas 2023.
Army Chief General Manoj Pande, along with top military officials and family members of fallen soldiers attended this ceremony to mark this eventful momentous Kargil Diwas Date and to pay respect to the Kargil War Heroes name list. To do so, 559 lamps – one for each soldier who died during battle – were ceremonially lit as part of an elaborate lighting ceremony conducted in conjunction with Ladakh Scouts Regimental Centre Fusion Band performances.
Remembering the Kargil War Heroes
Odisha jawans have earned many honors during this conflict and are remembered today with Kargil Vijay Diwas being celebrated across the nation. Let us bring you stories about some of these Kargil war heroes who died while protecting the country.
Captain Vikram Batra
Captain Vikram Batra, a top IMA graduate, was an extraordinary soldier and recipient of India’s highest military honor, the Param Vir Chakra. His bravery in Kargil War has inspired many and still continues to motivate youngsters to join the armed forces. He was undoubtedly one of the best soldiers the nation ever had. Critically acclaimed films like Lakshya and Shershaah are based on his life journey of exemplary courage and immense achievements.
Post the end of the war, a roadway was named “Vikram Batra Marg” in New Delhi in his honor.
Yogendra Singh Yadav
Born into a farming family in Kalinganagar village of Kandhamal district of Uttar Pradesh, Grenadier Yogendra Singh Yadav joined Ghatak Platoon during the 1999 Kargil war and was assigned the task of capturing strategic Pakistani bunkers located 5,500m up Tiger Hill at great personal risk by climbing its steep cliffs en route to his mission – fearlessly seizing strategic Pakistani bunkers at great height. He never lost faith in his mission nor ever lost faith in himself or his mission until finally being posthumously awarded the Param Vir Chakra on his deathbed.
He stands as a true inspiration to all those who aim to serve their nation with such dedication. Leading his unit from the front, he showed exceptional leadership qualities – truly embodying what a soldier and patriot should be! Hats off!
