Guwahati, Assam – India today, with profound reverence and fervent patriotism, observed the 25th anniversary of Kargil Vijay Diwas, commemorating its decisive triumph in the 1999 Kargil War. This significant day honours Operation Vijay, the successful military campaign that saw the Indian Armed Forces valiantly reclaim high-altitude outposts illicitly occupied by Pakistani intruders, thus reaffirming the inviolable sanctity of the Line of Control (LoC).
To honour the indomitable courage and supreme sacrifice of the brave soldiers who laid down their lives in the line of duty, a poignant wreath-laying and commemorative ceremony was meticulously organised at the State War Memorial, Dighalipukhuri, Guwahati, by the Directorate of Sainik Welfare, Assam. The solemn event was graced by the Hon’ble Governor of Assam, Shri Lakshman Prasad Acharya, who attended as the Chief Guest. He was accorded full military honours, including a ceremonial Bugle Welcome, a General Salute by the NCC Guard, and the resonant National Anthem. A respectful Present Arms was offered to the Amar Jawan, followed by a heartfelt wreath-laying ceremony, a poignant tribute to the fallen heroes.
A wreath was also laid on behalf of the Hon’ble Chief Minister of Assam, Shri Himanta Biswa Sarma, by Brigadier Polash Choudhury, Sena Medal (Retd), Director, Sainik Welfare, Assam, himself a distinguished Kargil War veteran. Floral tributes were also offered by representatives of the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force, symbolising the unified spirit of the armed forces. Esteemed retired officers, including Brigadier Ranjit Borthakur, SM (Retd), Commodore K. C. Choudhury, VSM (Retd), and Group Captain Debananda Gohain (Retd), laid wreaths on behalf of their respective services, demonstrating their enduring respect.
The event saw the participation of Ex-Servicemen, *Veer Naris, *Veer Matas, and family members of Kargil War heroes, all united in their homage. Colonel Dilip Kumar Borah (Retd), who commanded the 18 Grenadiers during the Kargil conflict, also paid tribute, recounting his personal and vivid battlefield experiences, which brought a poignant realism to the ceremony. A special felicitation ceremony was a highlight of the event, honouring the Veer Naris and Veer Matas, acknowledging their incredible strength, resilience, and the immeasurable sacrifices borne silently by the families of the martyrs.
Esteemed military veterans, including Lt Gen R. P. Kalita, PVSM, UYSM, AVSM, SM, VSM (Retd) and Lt Gen P. K. Bharali, VSM (Retd), delivered deeply moving addresses, recalling the extraordinary bravery and unparalleled valour of the Indian Armed Forces during the intense conflict. In his keynote speech, Governor Acharya paid heartfelt tribute to the unwavering courage, profound patriotism, and steadfast dedication of the armed forces. “Their sacrifices have shaped the destiny of our nation and must never be forgotten,” he stated, his words echoing the sentiment of a grateful nation.
The event also featured vibrant cultural performances and inspiring speeches by NCC cadets and students of Army School Narengi, including soul-stirring patriotic songs and a moving skit that stirred deep emotions of pride, respect, and unity among all attendees. Kargil Vijay Diwas continues to serve as a powerful and timeless reminder of India’s military resilience and the immortal legacy of its fallen heroes, ensuring their sacrifice is forever etched in the nation’s collective memory.
Read More: Meghalaya Unveils Major Sports Economy Push with True North Center Inauguration