On Wednesday, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh reiterated the government’s commitment to maintaining peace at the borders but issued a stern warning that India would not hesitate to retaliate if provoked. He made these remarks during the 24th Kargil Vijay Diwas celebration. Prior to his speech, Singh paid homage to the soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice during the 1999 Kargil war by laying a wreath at the War Memorial in Drass, Ladakh. This war witnessed Indian armed forces battling in challenging terrains and harsh weather conditions in Drass, Kargil, and Batalik sectors.
Singh assured the nation that the government is fully devoted to safeguarding national interests, irrespective of the challenges. He emphasized that there would be no compromise when it comes to protecting the country’s sovereignty, unity, and integrity. The Defence Minister also expressed confidence in the Indian Armed Forces, granting them the freedom to eliminate the nation’s enemies. While India is a peace-loving nation that values international laws and its centuries-old principles, it will not hesitate to cross the Line of Control (LoC) if required to protect its interests.
Praising the valour and commitment of the armed forces, Singh credited their sacrifices as the foundation on which modern India stands. He described ‘Operation Vijay’ as an episode that showcased India’s grit and determination in the face of adversity, serving as a launchpad for the nation’s subsequent success.
Despite facing a tactically superior adversary during the war, Indian forces exhibited unparalleled bravery and skill, pushing back the enemy and reclaiming the nation’s territory. This victory sent Pakistan and the world a clear message that India’s military would not back down if the nation’s interests were threatened.
Drawing parallels with the Russia-Ukraine conflict, the Defence Minister highlighted the unpredictable nature of contemporary conflicts. He called on the citizens to be prepared not only to indirectly support wars but also to participate directly if the need arises. Singh encouraged people to be mentally prepared to aid the Armed Forces whenever required, emphasizing that every Indian should be ready to play the role of a soldier.
Furthermore, Rajnath Singh called on the Indian Army to ensure that the contributions of the unsung heroes do not go unnoticed, underscoring the importance of acknowledging and honoring their service to the nation.
