Today marks a solemn yet triumphant occasion for India as the nation observes the 25th anniversary of Kargil Vijay Diwas, a day etched into the collective memory of every Indian. On July 26, 1999, India successfully reclaimed the heights of Kargil from Pakistani intruders, culminating in Operation Vijay, a testament to the bravery and sacrifice of our armed forces.The conflict erupted when Pakistani soldiers, aided by militants, crossed the Line of Control into the Kargil district, seeking to seize strategic positions in the high-altitude region. Swift detection of the intrusion in May 1999 prompted decisive military action from India, leading to a fierce two-and-a-half-month-long battle amidst challenging mountain terrain.Operation Vijay, named aptly for the victory it sought and achieved, saw Indian forces reclaim critical peaks, including the iconic Tiger Hill, through determined and coordinated efforts. The sacrifices made by 490 Indian army officers and soldiers during this operation are solemnly remembered today, underscoring the price paid for securing our nation’s sovereignty.In commemoration of this historic milestone, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Defense Minister Rajnath Singh will lead the nation in paying homage to the martyrs at the Stupa of Martyrs in Dras, located in the rugged Dras sector of Ladakh. Special ceremonies and events are planned to honor the courage and indomitable spirit of our soldiers who valiantly defended our borders.Prime Minister Modi is scheduled to arrive in Srinagar and then proceed to Dras in a military helicopter, emphasizing the significance of this occasion and the steadfast commitment to honoring our heroes. Stringent security measures have been implemented across Ladakh to ensure the safety and smooth conduct of these commemorative activities.As India reflects on the lessons and legacy of the Kargil conflict, it stands united in gratitude to those who laid down their lives for the nation and reaffirms its resolve to defend its sovereignty against any threat. The 25th Kargil Vijay Diwas serves as a poignant reminder of the courage, sacrifice, and unwavering determination that define the spirit of our armed forces and the resilience of our nation.