Ladakh, July 25 (NVI): Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Saturday said the Indian armed forces are fully prepared to meet any challenge, asserting that while India’s adversaries continue to pursue proxy war and infiltration, the country’s military remains vigilant and battle-ready.
Addressing troops during a commemorative event on the eve of the 27th Kargil Vijay Diwas at Dras, Singh paid tribute to the soldiers who fought in the 1999 Kargil War and said their courage, patriotism and sacrifice continue to inspire the nation.
“Even as the enemy’s intentions remain unchanged and it continues to employ proxy war and infiltration, the Indian Defence Forces stand fully prepared to face any challenge,” he said.
The defence minister expressed confidence in the armed forces, saying no one can cast an evil eye on India as long as its soldiers remain committed to protecting the country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Interacting with troops during a Barakhana, Singh said the challenges before the country have not diminished despite the historic victory in the Kargil conflict. He reaffirmed the Centre’s commitment to the welfare of soldiers and said sustained efforts are being made to modernise the armed forces with world-class equipment, technology and training.
He lauded the military for adopting advanced technologies and expressed confidence that India’s growing focus on self-reliance in defence production would further strengthen operational capabilities.
As part of the commemorative events, the defence minister attended the “Shaurya Sandhya” at the Kargil War Memorial, where he honoured the next of kin of Kargil War heroes, participated in an inter-faith prayer ceremony and paid homage by lighting lamps at the memorial.
Earlier in the day, he attended the “Yudh Sansmaran” programme at Lamochen View Point, where veterans and families of fallen soldiers were felicitated and documentaries highlighting the bravery of Operation Vijay heroes were screened.
At the Vishwanathan Stadium, Singh witnessed displays of drones, robotic mules, martial arts drills and cultural performances showcasing the region’s heritage. He also joined Kargil War veterans, serving personnel, Veer Naris and civil dignitaries at the “Shaurya Bhoj”.
The Kargil Vijay Diwas commemorations will conclude on Sunday with the Defence Minister leading the nation in paying homage to the 545 martyrs of the Kargil War during the “Shradhanjali Samaroh” at the Kargil War Memorial.(NVI)
