Rajnath Singh Pays Tribute to Kargil Heroes, Affirms Armed Forces’ Readiness Ahead of 27th Kargil Vijay Diwas
News Mania Desk/ 25th July 2026
Dras, Ladakh | July 25, 2026: On the eve of the 27th Kargil Vijay Diwas, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh paid heartfelt tributes to the heroes of the 1999 Kargil War, reaffirming that the Indian Armed Forces remain fully prepared to counter every threat to the nation’s sovereignty.
Addressing soldiers during the commemorative celebrations in Dras, the Raksha Mantri said that while India’s adversaries continue to pursue proxy wars and infiltration, the country’s defence forces are equipped and determined to meet every challenge.
“Even as the enemy’s intentions remain unchanged and it continues to employ nefarious tactics such as proxy wars and infiltration, the Indian Defence Forces stand fully prepared to face any challenge,” he said.
Interacting with troops during the traditional Barakhana, Rajnath Singh praised the courage, patriotism and unwavering commitment of the armed forces, stating that their sacrifice allows every Indian citizen to pursue their dreams without fear. He reiterated the government’s commitment to the welfare of soldiers and highlighted continued investments in defence modernisation, indigenous capabilities and cutting-edge military technology.
Expressing confidence in India’s growing defence strength, the Defence Minister said the country’s journey towards self-reliance in defence manufacturing would help build one of the world’s finest armed forces in the coming years.
The commemorative events included ‘Shaurya Bhoj’ at Vishwanathan Stadium, featuring displays of advanced military technologies such as drones, robotic mules, Army martial arts demonstrations and cultural performances celebrating Ladakh’s rich heritage. Rajnath Singh joined serving personnel, Kargil War veterans, Veer Naris, families of fallen soldiers and senior military leaders during the event.
Earlier, at the Kargil War Memorial, the Defence Minister attended ‘Shaurya Sandhya’, where families of ten Kargil martyrs were felicitated. He also received a ceremonial Kalash containing ‘Veeron Ki Mitti’, participated in inter-faith prayers, witnessed the Beating Retreat ceremony and lit lamps in memory of the fallen heroes.
The commemorations began with ‘Yudh Sansmaran’ at Lamochen View Point, where veterans and families of martyrs recalled the extraordinary bravery of Operation Vijay through documentary screenings and personal tributes.
The celebrations will culminate on July 26, when Rajnath Singh will lead the nation in paying homage to the 545 bravehearts—including 537 Army personnel, five Indian Air Force personnel, one BSF jawan and two civilians—who laid down their lives to secure India’s victory in the Kargil War and safeguard the nation’s territorial integrity.
