Prime Minister Narendra Modi Highlights Agnipath Scheme on Kargil Vijay Diwas in Ladakh
On the 25th anniversary of Kargil Vijay Diwas, Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke in Kargil, Ladakh, emphasizing the Agnipath scheme. He explained that the scheme aims to make the Indian Army younger and continuously fit for war. PM Modi noted that the need for major reforms in the army had been a long-standing demand.
He pointed out that the average age of Indian soldiers being higher than the global average was a concern, which the Agnipath scheme addresses. PM Modi criticized opposition parties for politicizing this sensitive issue related to national security.
He highlighted the reforms made in the defence sector over the last 10 years, making the Indian Army more capable and self-reliant. He mentioned that a significant share of defence procurement is now given to the Indian defence industry, and 25% of the research and development budget in defence is reserved for the private sector. As a result, India’s defence production has exceeded Rs. 1.25 lakh crore.
Earlier, PM Modi virtually initiated the first blast of the Shinkun La Tunnel project in Kargil. This 4.1-kilometre-long twin-tube tunnel will be the highest in the world, providing all-weather connectivity to Leh and fostering economic and social development in Ladakh.
PM Modi also paid tribute to the brave soldiers who sacrificed their lives in the 1999 Kargil War by laying a wreath at the Kargil War Memorial in Drass, Ladakh. Kargil Vijay Diwas, observed annually on July 26, commemorates the success of Operation Vijay, where Indian forces reclaimed strategic positions in the Kargil sector from Pakistani soldiers and terrorists.
Doubts Revealed
Narendra Modi -: Narendra Modi is the Prime Minister of India. He is the leader of the country and makes important decisions for the nation.
Agnipath Scheme -: The Agnipath Scheme is a plan to make the Indian Army younger and more fit for war. It aims to recruit young people into the army for a short period.
Kargil Vijay Diwas -: Kargil Vijay Diwas is a day to remember the victory of India in the Kargil War against Pakistan in 1999. It is celebrated every year on July 26th.
Ladakh -: Ladakh is a region in the northern part of India. It is known for its beautiful mountains and is a very cold place.
opposition parties -: Opposition parties are political groups that are not in power. They often have different ideas and criticize the government.
national security -: National security means keeping the country safe from threats like wars or attacks. It is very important for the safety of the people.
defence reforms -: Defence reforms are changes made to improve the military. These changes help make the army stronger and better prepared for any threats.
Shinkun La Tunnel -: The Shinkun La Tunnel is a new project to build a tunnel in the mountains. It will help people travel more easily in the Ladakh region.
Kargil War -: The Kargil War was a conflict between India and Pakistan in 1999. Indian soldiers fought bravely and won the war.