CM pays tribute to Kargil War heroes

On the occasion of Kargil Vijay Diwas, Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Saturday paid homage to the soldiers who demonstrated unparalleled bravery and patriotism by sacrificing their lives for the defence of the motherland.

She said the heroism displayed during the conflict by brave soldiers would remain forever engraved in the hearts of all Indians.

Kargil Vijay Diwas is observed on July 26 every year. On this day in 1999, the Indian Army announced the successful culmination of Operation Vijay, declaring victory after a nearly three-month battle on the icy heights of Kargil, including such super-high-altitude locations as Tololing and Tiger Hill.

Addressing a gathering at a ceremony organised by the Senior Citizens’ Welfare Committee at AB Block, the Chief Minister said the heroism displayed by Kargil warriors in reclaiming the treacherous mountain peaks will remain forever engraved in the hearts of all Indians.

Highlighting the importance of senior citizens in society, she also announced the Delhi Government’s Ayushman Vay Vandana Yojana, an initiative aimed at ensuring that senior citizens lead a dignified life with access to quality healthcare and dedicated services.

“Our goal is to ensure that no elderly person is left struggling for medical care and they are able to live securely and independently,” she said, adding that “true patriotism lies in preserving our glorious past while carrying out our present responsibilities with sensitivity and commitment.”

Delhi Home Minister Ashish Sood also paid tribute to the martyrs at an event in Shivaji College. Sood said everyone wishes to draw inspiration from Shaheed Bhagat Singh, but no one wants Bhagat Singh to be born in their own home.

“We all want a secure and prosperous nation, but expect the ultimate sacrifice to come from someone else’s family. Yet, such is the spirit embedded in the soil of our country that even today our youth are ready to serve in the armed forces with unwavering commitment,” he added.

He said in several Indian families, when one member becomes a martyr, the next generation is already prepared to follow in their footsteps. This drive comes not from duty alone, but from a deep sense of patriotism and pride in serving the nation.