Drass, Jul 25: “Today we breathe freely with our heads held high because our soldiers never lowered their weapons in Kargil. The Tricolour flies proudly in Kashmir because our martyrs defeated the enemy with extraordinary courage,” Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said on Saturday, paying tributes to the heroes of the 1999 Kargil War.
Addressing soldiers during the Shaurya Bhoj organised in Drass as part of the 27th Kargil Vijay Diwas commemorations, Singh said India’s freedom, security and national pride rest on the unmatched courage of its soldiers.
The Defence Minister praised the resilience and determination of soldiers serving in difficult terrain, saying that despite harsh weather, high-altitude conditions and operational challenges, their unwavering spirit remains unshaken.
“Your inner strength ensures that no force in the world can cast an evil eye on India. Every citizen is able to fulfil his dreams because you stand guard at the nation’s frontiers,” he said.
Reflecting on his long association with the Armed Forces, Singh said he had developed a deep understanding of the military during his tenure in public life and particularly as Defence Minister. He lauded the Armed Forces’ tradition of Bara Khana, describing it as a powerful symbol of unity, equality and teamwork where officers and soldiers dine together without distinction.
“Today, corporations spend enormous resources on team-building exercises, but our Armed Forces have practised true teamwork for generations through traditions like Bara Khana. It reflects mutual respect, equality and collective strength,” he remarked.
Highlighting the spirit of national unity, Rajnath Singh said soldiers rise above differences of caste, religion, language and region while serving the nation. He said the Armed Forces embody the highest ideals of patriotism, selflessness and national integration, making them role models for the entire country.
The Defence Minister also acknowledged the sacrifices made by the families of soldiers, saying that while troops defend the country’s borders, their loved ones fight emotional battles at home. He conveyed his gratitude and respect to the families for their unwavering support and sacrifices.
Referring to the evolving security scenario, Singh said although the Kargil War had ended in victory, India’s adversaries continue to employ proxy warfare and infiltration attempts. He asserted that the Indian Army remains fully prepared to tackle every challenge and safeguard the nation’s sovereignty.
He said the government, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has laid special emphasis on strengthening the Armed Forces through modernisation, advanced weaponry, cutting-edge technology and world-class training. Singh expressed satisfaction over the military’s successful adoption of new technologies and operational capabilities.
The Defence Minister also noted that the bravery and professionalism of Indian soldiers are admired globally. “Whenever I travel abroad, people speak highly of the courage and professionalism of Indian soldiers. Their bravery is unparalleled,” he said.
Reaffirming the government’s commitment to the welfare of the Armed Forces, Singh assured the soldiers that every effort would continue to be made to equip them with the best resources and ensure their well-being. He expressed confidence that India’s push towards self-reliance in defence manufacturing would further strengthen the military and help transform it into one of the world’s finest armed forces.
Singh said the nation remains indebted to its soldiers whose dedication and courage ensure the country’s security and bright future. Extending his best wishes to all ranks, he ended his speech with a resounding “Jai Hind.”
