On July 26, India commemorates the 25th Kargil Vijay Diwas, a day observed to celebrate the country’s victory over Pakistan, during the Kargil war of 1999. It is not just a day of celebration, it’s a day of remembrance, gratitude and pride for all Indians.
The day marks the victory and exceptional bravery of all the soldiers of the Indian armed forces, who reclaimed the territories infiltrated by the Pakistani troops. In Indian history, this day, holds a special significance for all citizens to remember the sacrifices made by our heroes for their country.
Their selfless sacrifices will remain immortal in the hearts of every citizen. Despite the challenges, their impeccable determination and sheer willpower to recapture those territories will always be remembered.
PM Modi’s tribute to Indian Soldiers
In order to mark the 25th anniversary of India’s victory over Pakistan on Vijay Kargil Diwas, Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid a floral wreath ceremony at the Drass War Memorial. He paid tribute to all the officers and soldiers who made their supreme sacrifice to serve the nation.
On July 26, 1999, the Indian army announced the successful culmination of the “Operation Vijay” – the Indian operation to push back infiltrators in the Kargil War) after nearly 3 months long struggle on the icy heights of Kargil in Ladakh.
While paying homage to the brave hearts, on the wreath, PM Modi said, “I want to tell the masters of terror that their evil designs will never succeed. Our enemy will be given a befitting reply. India will defeat every challenge coming in the way of development of Ladakh or Jammu and Kashmir.”
He further highlighted that Pakistan has failed in all their attempts to overpower India in the past. But they have not learned anything yet from its deep primitive history.
“Today I am speaking from a place where the masters of terror can hear my voice directly, I want to tell these patrons of terrorism that their nefarious intentions will never succeed. Our soldiers will crush terrorism with full force and the enemy will be given a befitting reply,” the Prime Minister further added.
Remembering Captain Vikram Batra
Among the tales of the heroes from the Kargil war, the story of Captain Vikram Batra stands out for his exceptional bravery and leadership at the time of emergence. His famous slogan ‘Yeh Dil Mange More’ has become a symbol of war and resilience which continues to evolve among the patrons of India. This popular phrase from the Pepsi advertisement in 1998 gained national significance during the Kargil war.
Recognition and Tribute
Later, Captain Vikram Batra was also honored with the prestigious title of ‘Shershah’ for exhibiting his extreme courage. Born with an exemplified and unwavering commitment to serve his nation, in the small village of Palampur, Himachal Pradesh, his journey was not an ordinary one.
During the war eruption, he led the charge of his troops from the 13th Battalion of the Jammu and Kashmir rifles. His brave actions while fighting the Pakistani troops around Area Ledge Point 4875 until he lost himself, earned him the greatest Param Vir Chakra- the Highest Military honor.
Tragically, Batra lost his life in the line of his duty, but his legacy of bravery and selflessness will live forever.
Their unfinished love story
Additionally, the love story of Captain Vikram Batra and his beloved, Dimple Cheema is also a testament of true love, and sacrifice. Even after Captain Batra was martyred during the Kargil Conflict, Dimple Cheema chose not to marry anyone else. For 22 years, she remembered him every day, believing that their love is immortal and would reunite again someday. Apart from this, their story also exemplifies true love- a bond that transcends time and distance.
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