Key Points

Air Force veteran Trilok shares emotional memories of the Kargil War, recalling the heavy casualties and sacrifices. He highlights the massive leap in India’s defence capabilities since 1999. Union ministers Mansukh Mandaviya and Sanjay Seth joined tributes in Drass, leading a padyatra with locals and students. The event echoed with patriotic chants, honouring the bravery of soldiers who reclaimed Ladakh’s peaks.

Key Points: Kargil War Veteran Trilok Reflects on Defence Advancements Since 1999

  • Trilok recalls heavy casualties during 1999 Kargil War
  • Defence systems now far more advanced than 1999
  • Union ministers pay tribute in Drass padyatra
  • Students and locals chant patriotic slogans in Kargil Vijay Diwas event
2 min read

Our defence systems have now become more advanced: Air Force Veteran reflects on Kargil War

Air Force veteran Trilok compares India’s defence capabilities from 1999 to today, highlighting advancements during Kargil Vijay Diwas tributes.

"Ajgajantar means rabbit, gaj means elephant, so there is so much difference. Earlier, it was not so much, now we have become very advanced. – Trilok, Kargil War Veteran"

Kargil, July 26

On the 26th Kargil Vijay Diwas, emotional memories, patriotic fervour, and a unique tribute marked the solemn occasion at Drass in Kargil. As the nation remembered its brave soldiers, Air Force veteran Trilok, who served during the 1999 Kargil War, reflected on the sacrifices made and the advancements that have followed since then.

Speaking about his role during the war, Trilok said, "During 1999, I was in Ops, Srinagar for the Kargil War."

Reflecting on the toll of war, he shared, "At that time, there were a lot of casualties. In fact so many people lost their lives, some became disabled, some got shot. Seeing this, the mind felt very sad. It is a sad story. You have to witness it, then you will feel it."

When asked to compare the armed forces strength capabilities with that of 1999, he remarked, "Ajgajantar means rabbit, gaj means elephant, so there is so much difference. Earlier, it was not so much, now we have become very advanced, and it is very good. Now take the example of Op Sindoor...it is very high, there is no doubt about it."

Union Minister Mansukh Mandaviya and Minister of State for Defence Sanjay Seth on Saturday paid tributes to the brave Indian soldiers who laid down their lives during the 1999 Kargil War.

The commemorative event was held in Drass, Kargil, where both Union Ministers participated in a padyatra alongside locals and students, in a symbolic gesture of national unity and remembrance.

With Indian flags held high, the atmosphere reverberated with chants of "Vande Mataram" and "Bharat Mata ki Jai." The padyatra witnessed enthusiastic participation from students and local residents, who walked together to honour the courage and sacrifices of the Indian Armed Forces.

A cultural programme was also organised as part of the tribute, where students dressed in traditional attire performed on stage.

Kargil Vijay Diwas honours the sacrifices of the soldiers who fought at the Line of Control on the snow-clad peaks amid relentless enemy fire. On July 26, the Indian flag was once again soaring over the mountains of Ladakh due to the efforts of our armed forces.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
My uncle served in Kargil... reading this brings tears. We must never forget what our soldiers went through in those freezing mountains. The veterans' stories need to be preserved for future generations.
R
Rohit P
While our defense has improved, we still need better equipment for our jawans at borders. The government should focus more on modernizing our forces rather than just ceremonies.
S
Sarah B
As someone who visited Kargil last year, the terrain is unimaginably difficult. What our soldiers achieved there was nothing short of miraculous. The memorial at Drass gave me goosebumps.
V
Vikram M
The elephant vs rabbit comparison is so apt! From Bofors to Rafale, our air power has come a long way. But let's not forget - it's the courage of our soldiers that matters most, not just machines.
K
Kavya N
Seeing students participate in the padyatra warms my heart ❤️ We need more such initiatives to connect our youth with our military history. Patriotism isn't just about flag-waving on social media!

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