Remembering The Kargil War Heroes

Not every hero wears a cape. Many protect us with their shield of courage, vigilance, and agility. They are the people for whom service to the nation comes before their own lives.

Yes, they are the soldiers of our country who dedicate their entire life to ensuring that even if they don’t sleep or are starving for days, everyone else in the nation can sleep peacefully and live in a secure environment.

Vande Mataram

We should be grateful to these iron men and women of our country every day throughout our lives. But more so today, as 26^th July serves as a reminder of the indomitable spirit of the Indian Army that gave India a magnificent victory. For those who know little, today – the 26^th of July, is celebrated as the Kargil Vijay Diwas in recognition of the success of Operation Vijay. It is a day to mark the innumerable sacrifices done by the army during the Kargil war, and otherwise, in the attempt to protect our nation from the invaders.

Operation Vijay

Amidst heightened tensions after both of the rival countries successfully created and tested the nuclear weapons, the historic Lahore agreement of 1999 was proposed and signed. It was a mutual agreement between the countries to solve the Kashmir issue in a non-destructive and peaceful manner.

Glimpse Of The Historic Kargil War

However, in the early winters of 1998, the Pakistani troops began infiltrating towards the Indian side of the Line of Control (LoC) under Operation Badr, in an attempt to dissociate the Indian troops in Siachen and to compel them to retreat. In response to this uninformed attack and sabotage, the Indian army launched the famous Operation Vijay. This glorious act involved the mobilization of more than 2,00,000 Indian troops and finally brought a swift end to the conflict. As a part of this operation, all the previously lost posts were recaptured by the Indian forces and the Pakistani troops were forced to leave and retreat from the LOC.

Furling The Indian Flag With Pride

With more than 500 soldiers losing their lives and over 1,500 injured, this victorious operation remains one of the most fiercely fought battles in the history of India. In words of the present prime minister, Shri Narendra Modi, it is the commemoration of the bravery of the son’s and daughters of India, of India’s resolve, and the capability and fortitude of this nation

Kargil Vijay Diwas 2020

This year India marks its 21^st anniversary of the Kargil Vijay Diwas, as a remembrance of the victory of the Indian Armed Forces in Operation Vijay against the infiltrating Pakistani troops. On this day, the armed forces offered their homage to all those who have lost their lives during this war. Not only this, but they also gave out a strong message in solidarity that be it today, tomorrow, or any day in the future, the armed forces will leave no stone unturned in protecting their nation with their lives.

On this occasion, the Government of India has also taken an initiative to inculcate the feeling of patriotism to the baton bearers of the future and to spread awareness about the importance of this day. As a part of this initiative, a national level online quiz on the Kargil Vijay Diwas has been announced which concludes on the 27^th of July 2020 and can be participated in by registering on the MyGov website.

Remembering The Kargil War Heroes

On this day, let us all take a moment to offer our prayers to all those who have lost their lives protecting us and to remember all those who are still fighting for our protection, security, and well-being. Not only the army but let us also offer our gratitude to those in the Indian Navy and Air Force and even to those who are out on the roads in the pandemic times, helping us, guiding us, and working day in day out for our safety.

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