Indian Army Marks 26th Anniversary of Kargil Vijay Diwas
As India commemorates the 26th anniversary of Kargil Vijay Diwas, the Indian Army has organized a series of solemn events to honor the bravery and sacrifices of soldiers from the 1999 Kargil War. The main ceremonies took place at the Kargil War Memorial in Dras, attended by prominent dignitaries including Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, the Minister of Labour and Employment, and General Upendra Dwivedi, Chief of the Army Staff. The events featured tributes to the 545 martyrs, cultural performances, and the inauguration of several legacy projects aimed at preserving the memory of the fallen heroes and enhancing community engagement.
Commemorative Events and Ceremonies
The commemorative activities began with a Battle Briefing and Remembrance Ceremony at the Lamochen Viewpoint in Dras, where veterans and active personnel shared their experiences from the Kargil conflict. This emotional gathering was enhanced by an audio-visual presentation that vividly depicted the stories of courage and resilience displayed during the war. Following this, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya honored the Next of Kin of Kargil heroes, acknowledging their sacrifices and courage. The day also featured a community meal known as Vijay Bhoj, symbolizing unity and gratitude among attendees. Soldiers, NCC cadets, and students from Army Goodwill Public Schools showcased their talents through regional and cultural performances, adding a vibrant atmosphere to the occasion. A technology demonstration highlighted the Army’s advancements in drone technology, showcasing swarm and logistics drones, which are crucial for operations in challenging terrains.
Shaurya Sandhya: A Tribute to the Fallen
The evening culminated in the ‘Shaurya Sandhya’ program at the Kargil War Memorial, a heartfelt tribute to the soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice. The event commenced with a musical performance titled ‘Gaurav Gatha’ by the Army band, celebrating tales of heroism. Religious leaders from various faiths offered prayers, symbolizing national unity in remembrance of the fallen. A significant moment was the lighting of 545 lamps, each representing a soldier who lost their life during Operation Vijay. The Felicitation Ceremony honored the Next of Kin of nine brave soldiers, attended by over 400 guests, including military and civil dignitaries, Veer Naris, and local citizens, all expressing their collective gratitude.
Main Commemoration on Kargil Vijay Diwas
The main event on July 26 began with a Wreath Laying Ceremony at the Kargil War Memorial, led by Dr. Mandaviya, Minister of Labour and Employment, and General Upendra Dwivedi. They were joined by senior military officials and families of the martyrs, as the haunting notes of the “Last Post” echoed through the valley, evoking deep emotions. In his keynote address, General Dwivedi paid tribute to the soldiers, reflecting on the Indian Army’s historic victory in 1999 and its ongoing commitment to national sovereignty. He emphasized the Army’s transformation into a future-ready force, highlighting new initiatives and technologies aimed at enhancing operational readiness. The General also called upon the youth to serve the nation with dedication, reaffirming the Army’s role in national development and security.
Legacy Projects and Community Engagement
General Upendra Dwivedi inaugurated several legacy projects aimed at preserving the memory of the Kargil martyrs and fostering community engagement. The Indus View Point, located in the Batalik sector, offers a scenic view of the Indus River and promotes Battle Area Tourism. The e-Shradhanjali portal allows citizens to pay virtual tributes to the martyrs, encouraging nationwide participation. Additionally, a QR-based Audio Gateway at the War Memorial provides historical insights through digital devices. The Army also conducted a special outreach drive, visiting the Next of Kin of all 545 martyrs across India and Nepal, rekindling pride among families. The #OnThisDay campaign utilized digital storytelling to recreate significant battles of the Kargil War, raising awareness among the youth. Adventure and cultural activities were organized across Kargil, Dras, and Batalik, fostering community participation and honoring the legacy of the soldiers.
As the sun set behind the peaks of Dras, the Kargil War Memorial stood as a beacon of national pride, reminding all of the sacrifices made for the country. The 26th Kargil Vijay Diwas served not only as a tribute to history but also as a reaffirmation of the enduring spirit of the soldiers in the heart of the nation.
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