The Indian Air Force (IAF) on Saturday celebrated the valorous troops of the 1999 Kargil war as the country marked the 26th anniversary of Kargil Vijay Diwas.
The solemn ceremony is a reminder of India's armed forces' exceptional bravery and sacrifice in protecting the nation's sovereignty.
To commemorate the day, the IAF uploaded a strong two-minute-plus video on social media. The homage, titled "The War Diary in Photographs," is comprised of rare photos from the war, depicting heart-wrenching moments and paying respects to the bravery of its staff.
Writing on X (formerly Twitter), the IAF had said: "The Indian Air Force pays heartfelt tribute to the valiant Warriors of the Kargil War. Their courage, sacrifice, and unwavering resolve continue to inspire a nation united in gratitude."
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also commemorated the day by acknowledging the heroism of the fallen soldiers.
"Warmest greetings to the countrymen on Kargil Vijay Diwas. This day reminds us of the unparalleled courage of those courageous sons of Mother India who sacrificed their lives in order to defend the honour of the nation," he said.
President Droupadi Murmu too was filled with similar feelings, offering tribute to the martyrs. "On the eve of Kargil Vijay Diwas, I am paying my sincerest respects to the gallant soldiers who had laid down their lives for the motherland. Their commitment and ultimate sacrifice will continue to motivate the people of our country," she stated.
One day prior to the anniversary, kin of the Kargil martyrs met at the Lamochen Viewpoint in Drass. The meeting was a highly emotive one, with collective memories and moving tributes to those who never made it back home.
Rajesh, whose brother lost his life in the fight for Tiger Hill, narrated a poignant personal experience:
We sent a letter to my brother during the war, and he responded that he was safe. But after he died, we discovered his diary, which he had passed on to a friend. He had written in it that he didn't believe he'd survive the mission."
Surekha Shinde, too, lost her brother in the war and articulated her pride and appreciation.
He had been working with the army for five years prior to the war. I am proud to be here today and thank the army for having invited us," she added.
Kargil Vijay Diwas is celebrated every year on July 26 to commemorate India's triumph in the 1999 Kargil war. Indian troops during the conflict had successfully repelled Pakistani troops who had infiltrated and occupied key mountain posts in the Kargil-Siachen region.
The war, which had continued for more than two months, ended with the successful launch of Operation Vijay. Indian soldiers captured strategic positions despite harsh terrain and massive fires from the enemy. India's ability to restrict the conflict to the Kargil area also showed serious political and military restraint.
As part of Operation Safed Sagar initiated on May 26, 1999, the Indian Air Force was pivotal in the war. It was the first time that air power was utilized in Jammu and Kashmir since the 1971 war.
The IAF conducted accurate bombing raids at high altitudes without crossing the Line of Control—demonstrating not only strategic restraint but also the compelling effect of air power in mountain warfare.
In the view of the IAF, the mission was a watershed moment that highlighted the kind of power aerial support could wield over the course of a battle, even in the confines of regional conflict.
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