27 years of Kargil Vijay Diwas: ARTRAC honours heroes of 'Operation Vijay'
Chandigarh, July 26
The Army Training Command headquarters on Sunday commemorated the 27th anniversary of Kargil Vijay Diwas, paying tribute to the courage, determination and supreme sacrifice of the soldiers who defended the nation's sovereignty during Operation Vijay in 1999.
According to an official release, the commemorative ceremony began at the Shradhhanjali Sthal in Annandale, where Lieutenant General Devendra Sharma, PVSM, AVSM, SM, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, ARTRAC, laid a wreath on behalf of all ranks to honour the fallen heroes.
A two-minute silence was observed as buglers sounded the solemn notes of the "Last Post."
Paying tribute to the heroes of Operation Vijay, the Army Commander recalled their extraordinary bravery, unwavering resolve and selfless devotion to duty in the face of formidable challenges across the unforgiving, icy heights of Kargil. He highlighted that the spirit & legacy of the Kargil heroes continue to serve as a perpetual beacon of inspiration, reinforcing the Indian Army's enduring commitment toward safeguarding the Country's Unity, Integrity and Sovereignty, the release said.
Marking the day's observances, the Army Commander also visited the Army Heritage Museum at Annandale. Located in the picturesque Annandale valley, the museum showcases the exceptional courage & sacrifices of Indian soldiers across generations.
The Army Commander appreciated the museum's dedicated efforts to preserve invaluable military artefacts, battle memorabilia and historical records; thus ensuring that the saga of patriotism and military honour is passed on seamlessly to future generations, the release said.
The commemoration concluded with All Ranks of HQ ARTRAC taking a collective pledge to uphold the highest ideals of patriotism, courage and selfless service; ensuring that the sacrifices of the Kargil heroes remain forever etched in the Nation's collective memory and continue to inspire millions of Indians.
— ANI
Reader Comments
So proud of our army's courage! The Kargil story is something every Indian child reads in textbooks but we need more such museums like ARTRAC has - it's important for the younger generation to see the actual artefacts. Maybe the government could sponsor more school visits to these heritage sites? Just a thought.
Having served in the army, I feel deeply emotional every Kargil Diwas. Those young soldiers gave up everything for our borders. But I hope our leaders don't just do these ceremonies for PR - the real tribute is ensuring our defence policies are strong and veterans get their due benefits. Respect to ARTRAC for keeping the legacy alive though.
The 'Last Post' being played at Annandale must have been so moving. The sacrifice of Captain Vikram Batra, Grenadier Yogendra Singh Yadav and others taught us what real bravery means. Let's also remember the role of our Air Force during Operation Vijay - they were crucial in turning the tide.
We should also talk about how Kargil happened due to intelligence failure. While we honour the heroes, we must question those in power who let the borders become vulnerable. That's the real lesson - honour the soldiers, hold the system accountable. But today let's just be grateful for our army's steadfastness.
27 years already? Feels like yesterday when the whole nation was glued to TV screens. My father still remembers collecting money for the Kargil relief fund in our colony. Glad ARTRAC is preserving this history. Hope our new generation stays connected to these stories - not just through movies but real heritage sites
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