Ladakh: Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid homage to the bravehearts who made the ultimate sacrifice during the Kargil War on the 25th Kargil Vijay Diwas in Ladakh today. He attended the Shraddhanjali Samaroh, listened to the Gaurav Gatha briefing by NCOs on the Kargil War, and visited the Amar Sansmaran: Hut of Remembrance and Veer Bhoomi.
During the event, PM Modi virtually witnessed the first blast of the Shinkun La Tunnel Project, which consists of a 4.1 km long twin-tube tunnel to be constructed at around 15,800 feet on the Nimu – Padum – Darcha Road. This project aims to provide all-weather connectivity to Leh.
In his address at the Shraddhanjali Samaroh, PM Modi highlighted the significance of Kargil Vijay Diwas, emphasizing the immortal sacrifices made by the soldiers to protect the nation. He stated, “Kargil Vijay Diwas reminds us that the sacrifices made for the nation are immortal.” Recalling his presence during the Kargil War, he saluted the soldiers who undertook the challenging operation.
PM Modi underscored the moral victory achieved in Kargil, noting how “truth, restraint, and strength” prevailed over Pakistan’s deceit and terrorism. He condemned Pakistan’s continued support for terrorism and proxy wars, asserting that India’s bravehearts will thwart all terror attempts.
He reiterated India’s commitment to overcoming challenges in Ladakh and Jammu & Kashmir, highlighting the progress in these regions since the abrogation of Article 370. The Prime Minister cited examples of infrastructure development, increased tourism, and the return of cultural events.
Focusing on Ladakh’s development, PM Modi announced that the Shinkun La Tunnel will ensure year-round connectivity, easing the hardships faced by the region’s residents due to extreme weather. He congratulated the people of Ladakh, emphasizing that the tunnel will open new possibilities for development and a better future.
The Prime Minister highlighted the government’s priority towards Ladakh, mentioning efforts such as the evacuation of citizens from the Kargil region during the Covid-19 pandemic and a significant increase in the region’s budget. He noted the achievements in providing drinking water, establishing Sindhu Central University, extending 4G network coverage, and constructing the Zojila tunnel for all-weather connectivity.
PM Modi also detailed the government’s ambitious targets for border area development, citing the completion of over 330 projects by the Border Road Organization, including the Sela Tunnel. He emphasized the importance of upgrading military technologies and prioritizing defence reforms over the past decade, making the forces more capable and self-reliant.
Addressing the Agnipath Scheme, PM Modi explained its role in maintaining a young and battle-ready force and criticized the politicization of the issue. He also highlighted the implementation of One Rank One Pension and the construction of a war memorial, underscoring the current government’s commitment to the armed forces.