Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on July 26, honoured the brave souls who sacrificed their lives in the line of duty during the 25th Kargil Vijay Diwas at the Kargil War Memorial in Dras, Ladakh. He also attended the Shraddhanjali Samaroh, listened to the Gaurav Gatha—a briefing on the Kargil War by NCOs—and visited the Amar Sansmaran: Hut of Remembrance, along with the Veer Bhoomi.
Additionally, the Prime Minister observed the first blast of the Shinkun La Tunnel Project in Ladakh virtually. This project involves constructing a 4.1 km Twin-Tube tunnel at approximately 15,800 feet on the Nimu–Padum–Darcha Road to ensure all-weather connectivity to Leh. Once completed, it will be the highest tunnel in the world. The Shinkun La Tunnel aims to enhance the swift and efficient movement of armed forces and equipment while promoting economic and social development in Ladakh.
Addressing the Shraddhanjali Samaroh, Prime Minister Modi remarked that Ladakh’s glorious land is commemorating the 25th anniversary of Kargil Vijay Diwas. “Kargil Vijay Diwas reminds us that the sacrifices made for the nation are immortal,” he stated. He emphasized that, despite the passage of time—months, years, or even centuries—the lives sacrificed to defend the nation’s borders cannot be forgotten. “The nation is forever indebted and deeply grateful to the mighty superheroes of our armed forces,” he added.
Reflecting on the Kargil War, the Prime Minister recalled his experience with the soldiers and their challenging operations at high altitudes. “I salute the brave sons of the country who made the supreme sacrifice to protect the motherland,” Shri Modi said.
“In Kargil, we not only won the war but also set a remarkable example of ‘truth, restraint, and strength,’” Prime Minister Modi remarked. He highlighted Pakistan’s deceit during India’s efforts to maintain peace, noting, “Falsehood and terror were brought down to their knees by truth.”
The Prime Minister condemned terrorism and criticized Pakistan for its persistent failures and continued warfare under the guise of terrorism and proxy wars. “Pakistan has not learned from its past and continues to wage war to stay relevant,” he said, asserting that “our brave hearts will trample all the terror attempts.”
Reiterating India’s commitment to overcoming challenges, the Prime Minister emphasized that the country will address development issues in Ladakh and Jammu & Kashmir. He reminded that on August 5, the abrogation of Article 370 will mark five years, with Jammu & Kashmir now envisioning a new future full of dreams. He cited progress examples such as G20 meetings in the UT, increased infrastructure and tourism focus, the reopening of cinema halls, and the initiation of the tazia procession after decades. “This heaven on earth is swiftly moving in the direction of peace and prosperity,” he added.
Highlighting developments in Ladakh, the Prime Minister said the Shinkun La Tunnel would ensure year-round connectivity. “This tunnel will open doors to new possibilities for Ladakh’s development and better future,” he remarked. He congratulated the people of Ladakh, noting that the tunnel would ease their lives by mitigating the hardships caused by the region’s extreme weather.
The Prime Minister underscored the government’s commitment to the people of Ladakh, recalling efforts to evacuate citizens from Kargil during the COVID-19 pandemic. He mentioned the establishment of a quarantine zone in Jaisalmer for testing before sending them to Ladakh. He highlighted a six-fold increase in the budget from Rs 1,100 crores to Rs 6,000 crores over the past five years, addressing areas such as roads, electricity, water, education, and employment. “Every direction of Ladakh is transforming,” PM Modi said, citing holistic planning for the first time. He provided examples of over 90 percent coverage of drinking water under the Jal Jeevan Mission, the upcoming Sindhu Central University, the establishment of a 4G network, and the ongoing work on the 13-kilometer-long Zojila Tunnel.
Discussing ambitious targets for border areas, the Prime Minister informed that the Border Road Organization (BRO) has completed over 330 projects, including the Sela Tunnel, showcasing New India’s capabilities and direction.
Emphasizing the importance of upgrading military technology, the Prime Minister noted that the defense sector needs the latest equipment and modern practices. He acknowledged past shortcomings but praised recent defense reforms for enhancing capability and self-reliance. “In the last 10 years, Defence reforms have been prioritized, making our forces more capable and self-reliant,” he said. He also highlighted that 25 percent of the defence and research development budget is reserved for the private sector, leading to a defence production exceeding 1.5 lakh crore. “India is now making its mark as an arms exporter,” he added, contrasting the past image of being an arms-importing nation.
The Prime Minister praised the defence forces for reforms such as the Agnipath Scheme, aimed at keeping the forces young and battle-ready. He criticized past politicization of this issue and the neglect of Air Force modernization. “The Agnipath scheme will enhance the country’s strength and provide capable youth,” he said, noting the priority given to Agniveers in the private sector and paramilitary forces. He rejected claims that the scheme is intended to save on pension burdens, asserting that the focus is on national security over politics.
The Prime Minister contrasted the current government’s achievements with past failures, noting that previous governments had neglected the armed forces and failed to build a war memorial, provide adequate bulletproof jackets, or acknowledge Kargil Vijay Diwas.
Concluding his address, the Prime Minister stated, “The victory of Kargil was not the victory of any government or party. This victory belongs to the country; it is the heritage of the nation. This is a festival of pride and self-respect.” He saluted the brave soldiers on behalf of the entire nation and extended his best wishes for the 25th anniversary of Kargil victory.
