ITANAGAR, Jul 26: Arunachal Pradesh Governor Lt Gen (Retd) KT Parnaik on Sunday paid homage to the brave soldiers who laid down their lives during the 1999 Kargil War and called upon the youth to uphold the ideals of courage, patriotism and selfless service in building a developed India.
Participating in the Kargil Vijay Diwas celebration at Rupa in West Kameng district, the Governor laid a wreath at the War Memorial of the 5 Mountain Division and paid floral tributes to the martyrs of the Kargil War. He also interacted with officers and Junior Commissioned Officers (JCOs) who had participated in the war.
Addressing the gathering, the Governor said Kargil Vijay Diwas marks India's historic victory in the 1999 Kargil War, fought over 83 days in some of the world's most challenging high-altitude terrain. Despite harsh weather, difficult terrain and enemy occupation of strategic heights, the Indian Armed Forces displayed exceptional courage and determination to reclaim every inch of Indian territory, he said.
Remembering the sacrifice of more than 500 soldiers, the Governor paid tribute to the bravery of Captain Vikram Batra, Lieutenant Manoj Kumar Pandey, Grenadier Yogendra Singh Yadav and Rifleman Sanjay Kumar, among other gallant warriors.
He said the Kargil victory was not only a military triumph but also a symbol of national unity, with people across the country standing firmly behind the Armed Forces during the conflict.
Urging the younger generation to draw inspiration from the Kargil heroes, the Governor said they should contribute towards the vision of Viksit Bharat@2047 through dedication, innovation and patriotism.
Highlighting the strategic importance of border areas, Parnaik stressed the need for accelerated infrastructure development, better connectivity and sustainable livelihood opportunities in border villages to strengthen national security and resilience.
The Governor also underlined the importance of modernising the Armed Forces and enhancing strategic infrastructure to meet emerging security challenges. He expressed gratitude to serving soldiers, veterans and border communities for their unwavering commitment to safeguarding the nation.
Reaffirming the enduring spirit of Kargil, the Governor called upon citizens to uphold the values of courage, unity and national service for which the Kargil heroes made the supreme sacrifice.
He complimented the General Officer Commanding, 5 Mountain Division, for organising the commemorative event and appreciated the participation of the local MLA, civil administration, veterans and citizens.
Among those present were local MLA Tseten Chombay, General Officer Commanding 5 Mountain Division Maj Gen Amit Nautiyal, Commander 311 Mountain Brigade Brig Arun R Nambisan, Commander 351 Mountain Brigade Brig Vinay Jasrotia, Commander 5 Mountain Artillery Brigade Brig Vineet Goyal, West Kameng Deputy Commissioner Dr Dilip Kumar and Superintendent of Police DW Thungon.