"Their sacrifice became our freedom": India head coach Gambhir pays tribute to Kargil heroes
New Delhi, July 26
India head coach Gautam Gambhir on Sunday paid tribute to the Indian soldiers who fought in the Kargil War, remembering their courage and sacrifice on Kargil Vijay Diwas.
"Their courage became our victory, their sacrifice became our freedom!" Gambhir wrote on X.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also paid tributes to the soldiers who laid down their lives for the country during the 1999 Kargil War, saying Kargil Vijay Diwas reminds everyone of the "extraordinary courage" displayed by the armed forces in the face of extreme challenges.
Addressing the 136th episode of his monthly radio programme 'Mann Ki Baat', PM Modi said that India continues to strengthen its defence capabilities and is emerging as a trusted global defence partner."Today is Kargil Vijay Diwas. This day fills us with pride, and it reminds us of the extraordinary courage of our brave soldiers."
"The towering peaks of Kargil, the harsh weather, the enemy's challenge--every circumstance stood before our soldiers, but their resolve was greater than every challenge. They dedicated everything they had to protect Mother India. Today, on 'Kargil Vijay Diwas', I pay my humble respects to all the brave martyrs and valiant soldiers," PM Modi said.
The Prime Minister also highlighted the 'Shaurya Vijay Yatra' organised to commemorate Kargil Vijay Diwas. "This year, a special 'Shaurya Vijay Yatra' has been organised. This motorcycle journey, which began on July 14th from the National War Memorial in Delhi, will reach the Kargil War Memorial in Drass," PM Modi said."Its message is - 'One Ride, One Nation, One Salute.' This journey reminds us that the sacrifices made for the nation can never be forgotten," he added.
Kargil Vijay Diwas, observed annually on July 26, is a day of profound significance for every Indian. It commemorates the bravery, sacrifice, and unwavering determination of the Indian armed forces during the Kargil War of 1999.
On this day, we pay tribute to the valiant soldiers who laid down their lives to protect our nation's sovereignty and integrity.
The conflict that came to be known as the Kargil War began in May 1999 when intruders stealthily crossed the Line of Control and occupied Indian posts on towering ridges. Their sinister aim was to sever National Highway 1A, the vital artery connecting Srinagar to Leh.
But they underestimated the will of a nation. India responded with Operation Vijay, a mission that combined meticulous planning, steely determination, and the indomitable spirit of its soldiers. For more than two months, our forces fought inch by inch across the harshest terrain, until every intruder was driven out and every post restored to Indian control.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Every year on July 26, I feel a mix of pride and sorrow. Pride for our soldiers' valor, sorrow for their families who lost loved ones. PM Modi's words about strengthening defence capabilities are reassuring, but we must also ensure veterans and their families are well taken care of.
As someone who served in the US Army, I have immense respect for the Indian soldiers who fought in Kargil. Fighting at those altitudes in harsh weather is no joke. Glad to see leaders like Gambhir and Modi keeping the memory alive. 🇺🇸🤝🇮🇳
Great tribute by Gambhir and PM Modi. But let's not forget that many families of Kargil martyrs still struggle for basic entitlements. Our government should ensure their sacrifice translates into real support for their loved ones. That would be the truest homage.
The Shaurya Vijay Yatra sounds inspiring! "One Ride, One Nation, One Salute" - what a powerful message. My father served in the Indian Army and he always says Kargil Vijay Diwas is more than a date, it's a reminder of why we should never take our borders for granted. 🙏
I'm from Canada and I've always admired India's resilience. The Kargil story is a testament to the indomitable spirit of your armed forces. Gambhir's words are simple but powerful - sacrifice truly became freedom. Much respect.
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