Sacrifices make the country

Ham Amn Chahte Hai Magar Zulm Ke Khilaf

Gar Jang Lazmi Hai to Phir Jang Hi Sahi

With these lines of Sahir Ludhianvi, I pray my tributes to the fallen heroes of Kargil. Every year on July 26, whole country unites in reverence and remembrance to honor the bravery and sacrifice of the soldiers on Kargil Vijay Diwas. This day marks the anniversary of the success of Operation Vijay in 1999, when the Indian Armed Forces reclaimed the territories infiltrated by Pakistani soldiers and terrorists in the Kargil district of Jammu and Kashmir. This year, the observance is particularly poignant as we commemorate the 25th anniversary of this momentous victory, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi Ji visiting Kargil War Memorial in Ladakh to pay tribute to the fallen heroes.

Kargil Vijay Diwas is not just a date on the calendar; it is a solemn reminder of the sacrifices made by our soldiers, a celebration of their valour, and a unifying moment of national pride and gratitude. The Kargil War, which raged from May to July 1999, was a stark reminder of the volatility of the region and the perpetual threat to India’s sovereignty. The conflict saw our soldiers battling in harsh, mountainous terrains under extreme conditions, displaying unparalleled courage and resilience.

The war, which resulted in the loss of nearly 490 Indian officers, soldiers, and Jawans, stands as an evidence to the indomitable spirit of the Indian Armed Forces. The lines by Lal Chand Falak perfectly describes the situation of sacrifice and bravery.

Dil Sey Niklegi Na Mar Kar Bhi Watan Ki Ulfat

Meri Mitti Se Bhi Khushbu-e-Wafa Aaegi

The successful recapture of strategic positions like Tiger Hill and the subsequent victory on July 26, 1999, were hard-won achievements that came at a great cost. These sacrifices rule the immense bravery and commitment of our soldiers to protect the nation’s integrity and sovereignty.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Ji's visit to Ladakh this year is a significant gesture, symbolizing the nation’s ongoing gratitude and respect for the sacrifices made by the soldiers. His presence in Ladakh, one of the theatres of the conflict, serves to reinforce the collective memory of the war and the valor of those who fought in it. It is a powerful reminder of the unity and solidarity that the Kargil War inspired among Indians from all walks of life.

The history leading up to the Kargil War is a chronicle of enduring tensions between India and Pakistan. After the formation of Bangladesh in 1971, the two countries continued to clash, including the battle for dominance over the Siachen Glacier. Despite efforts to maintain peace through the Lahore Declaration in February 1999, the conflict erupted when Pakistani soldiers and terrorists infiltrated the Indian side of the Line of Control (LoC) in Kargil. The discovery of this infiltration in May 1999 prompted the Indian Army to launch Operation Vijay, leading to intense battles over two months.

Kargil Vijay Diwas is a celebration of this victory and a tribute to the soldiers who fought with valor and determination. It is a day to remember their sacrifices, to honor their bravery, and to reflect on the values of courage, unity, and patriotism that they embodied. This day serves as a unifying force, bringing together people from all corners of India in a collective spirit of resilience and solidarity. I remember Firaq Gorakhpuri's lines and these go like this:

Lahu Watan Ke Shaheedu Ka Rang Paaya Hai

Uchhal Raha Hai Zamane Mei Nam-e-Azadi

The stories of heroism from the Kargil War continue to inspire future generations, instilling a sense of duty and dedication to the nation. The observance of Kargil Vijay Diwas ensures that the sacrifices of our soldiers are never forgotten. It serves as a powerful reminder of the cost of freedom and the responsibility each citizen bears to uphold the values for which our soldiers fought.

As we mark the 25th anniversary of Kargil Vijay Diwas, let us honor the memory of those who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country. Their legacy is a beacon of courage and patriotism, guiding us to build a nation worthy of their sacrifices. In the words of Prime Minister Narendra Modi Ji, let us pledge to uphold the unity and integrity of our nation, inspired by the valor of our heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice for the country. In the end, I conclude with the lines of Javed Akhtar,

Isi Jagah issi Din To Hua Tha Ye Elaan Andhere Haar Gaye Zindabad Hindustan

Dr Shenaz Ganai is an Ex-MLC, Jammu and Kashmir. She is associated with Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)