JAIPUR/JODHPUR
Governor Haribhau Bagde described Kargil Vijay Diwas as an enduring symbol of the nation’s integrity, sovereignty and the supreme sacrifice of Indian soldiers, saying it is a solemn occasion to honour their courage, patriotism and unwavering commitment to the country.
Addressing the ‘Operation Vijay Kargil-2026’ event organised by Kreeda Bharati, Jodhpur Prant, at Rawati-Ghoda Valley near Mehrangarh Fort on Sunday, Bagde said the 1999 Operation Vijay was among the world’s most challenging military campaigns. He noted that Indian troops reclaimed strategically important peaks in Kargil, Dras and Batalik from Pakistan-backed intruders through exceptional military strategy, discipline and valour.
He said the victory reflected not only success on the battlefield but also the Indian Army’s strategic capability, leadership and patriotism. Highlighting Rajasthan’s legacy of bravery, Bagde recalled the contributions of Bappa Rawal, Maharana Sanga, Maharana Pratap, Major Shaitan Singh and Company Havildar Major Piru Singh. He also cited Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj as a timeless example of leadership, courage and nation-first values, urging young people to draw inspiration from his life.
Bagde said Kargil Vijay Diwas reinforces the spirit of “Nation First” and inspires citizens to imbibe the ideals of sacrifice and patriotism while contributing to the vision of a developed, secure and self-reliant India.
A major attraction of the programme was a symbolic re-enactment of the Tiger Hill battle and other key operations of the Kargil War. The natural terrain of Rawati-Ghoda Valley was transformed to resemble the rugged Kargil landscape, vividly portraying the battlefield conditions, military strategy and the bravery of Indian soldiers.
Union Minister for Culture and Tourism Gajendra Singh Shekhawat said the Kargil victory remains a timeless chapter of the Indian Army’s courage, discipline and dedication to the nation. He noted that despite sub-zero temperatures and altitudes of 16,000 to 17,000 feet, Indian soldiers overcame severe challenges to reclaim the strategic peaks and hoist the national flag.
During the event, Governor Haribhau Bagde and Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat honoured 16 Kargil War veterans and Veer Naris in recognition of their exceptional courage and service to the nation.
