26th July is a proud date for every Indian
Tarun Chugh
Many dates in Indian history hold a permanent place of pride in the hearts of Indians. One such historic date is July 26, which is a day of immense pride for every Indian. On July 26, 1999, brave Indian soldiers compelled the Pakistani army and government to surrender. This day is etched in the annals of Indian history. India is set to celebrate the 25th anniversary of Kargil Vijay Diwas this year. July 26th is a day dedicated to Indian soldiers, as it commemorates the valour of the martyrs during the Kargil War. Kargil Vijay Diwas is observed in memory of the soldiers who were martyred during the India-Pakistan conflict of 1999. The Kargil War, fought between May and July 1999, holds significant importance in India’s history as it demonstrated the unbreakable resolve and extraordinary courage of the Indian armed forces.
India is globally recognized for its bravery and valour. However, the hostility between India and Pakistan is no secret. The Kargil War was an attempt by the Pakistani army to seize control of the Kargil-Drass mountain ranges. This war stands as evidence of Pakistan’s malicious intentions. The then Pakistani army chief, Pervez Musharraf, attempted to infiltrate Indian borders. However, India fought bravely and defeated Pakistan, once again proving its strength to the world. The then Prime Minister of India, Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee, showcased India’s valor and strength to the world, teaching Pakistan a lesson. Even the international supporters of Pakistan had to acknowledge India’s resolute and stern response.
The Kargil War resulted in a significant defeat for Pakistan, questioning its credibility. India also lost many brave soldiers whose sacrifice became a source of inspiration for the nation. The country will never forget the sacrifice of these heroes. Hence, every year on July 26, we observe Kargil Vijay Diwas.
Since the partition of India and Pakistan, Pakistan’s intentions and actions have not been favorable towards India. They have continually tried various methods to infiltrate Indian territory. The Kargil War was a result of one such infiltration attempt. India was unaware of Pakistan’s deceitful intentions, but upon realizing it, India responded promptly. The presence of infiltrators was confirmed by an attack on a patrol team in the area. Initially, soldiers were sent to drive out the infiltrators, mistaking them for jihadists. However, with increasing reports of infiltrators in various areas and retaliatory attacks, the Indian army quickly understood that this was a large-scale infiltration planned by Pakistan, involving both jihadists and the Pakistani army. In response, the Indian army launched ‘Operation Vijay’ involving 30,000 soldiers. Over 500 Indian soldiers were martyred, and 1,300 were injured in this war, which is considered the most severe after World War II. Despite the hardships, the soldiers did not let the honor of Mother India fall and hoisted the Indian flag on the Kargil peaks, defeating the Pakistani soldiers. Remembering this day fills every Indian with pride. After immense struggle, we won the battle and raised our flag of victory. Kargil Vijay Diwas is recorded in the annals of Indian history. Every Indian celebrates this day with great pride, remembering the bravery and sacrifice of the soldiers.
India has constructed a memorial in Kargil to honor the victory, where Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi pays tribute every year on this date. Kargil Vijay Diwas is celebrated across India, and people pay homage to the soldiers and martyrs. Prime Minister Modi visits Amar Jawan Jyoti in Delhi to honour the soldiers. Various social and cultural programs are organized in schools and other educational institutions to remember the brave heroes. It is essential for the new generation to know about this significant chapter in Indian history and the glorious outcome for the country. On this day, the entire nation salutes the bravery and sacrifice of our soldiers. Prime Minister Modi has boosted the morale of our soldiers and showcased India’s strength. Every Indian is proud of their soldiers.
On the glorious occasion of Kargil Vijay Diwas, we pay tribute to the martyred soldiers who sacrificed their lives for the country.
(The author is National General Secretary of Bharatiya Janata Party)
