Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Memories from the Kargil War 25 Years Ago
New Delhi, India – July 26: The Modi Archive, a platform that tracks Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s life and journey, shared photos and clippings from his visit to the Kargil battlefield 25 years ago. These entries describe his experiences and the lessons he learned from speaking to the war heroes.
A Pilgrimage of a Lifetime
Today marks 25 years since the Kargil War, a significant event in India’s history. Pakistani troops had infiltrated Indian territory, leading to Operation Vijay. The Indian Army fought fiercely, reclaiming the land and securing the nation’s integrity.
The Battle of Tiger Hill
One of the fiercest battles was at Tiger Hill. On July 4, 1999, after a relentless fight, Indian forces hoisted the tricolour atop Tiger Hill, leading to the eviction of Pakistani intruders by July 26, 1999. Narendra Modi, then overseeing work in Himachal Pradesh, supported the soldiers during this time.
Modi boarded a Mi-17 helicopter with essential supplies and landed in Srinagar amidst continuous shelling. He spoke with the brave soldiers, who credited their victory to then-Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee. Inspired by Vajpayee’s commitment, the soldiers fought with renewed vigour and achieved victory.
Political Lessons from Kargil
Modi learned that the opposition might politicize national security. He questioned Congress leader Sonia Gandhi’s silence on Pakistan and criticized the opposition for politicizing issues during critical times. He highlighted how Atal Bihari Vajpayee supported Indira Gandhi during the 1971 war, showing true national unity.
Tribute to the Bravehearts
On Friday, PM Modi paid tribute to the brave soldiers who sacrificed their lives in the 1999 Kargil War. He laid a wreath at the Kargil War Memorial in Drass, Ladakh, on the 25th Kargil Vijay Diwas, commemorating the success of Operation Vijay.
Doubts Revealed
Prime Minister Narendra Modi -: He is the current Prime Minister of India, which means he is the leader of the country.
Kargil War -: This was a conflict between India and Pakistan in 1999, fought in the Kargil district of Jammu and Kashmir.
Modi Archive -: A collection of photos, videos, and documents related to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s life and work.
Kargil battlefield -: The place where the Kargil War was fought between Indian and Pakistani soldiers.
war heroes -: Brave soldiers who fought in the war and showed great courage.
Atal Bihari Vajpayee -: He was the Prime Minister of India during the Kargil War and is remembered for his leadership.
opposition -: Political parties or groups that are not in power and often criticize the government.
politicizing national security -: Using issues related to the safety of the country for political gain or to criticize others.
Kargil Vijay Diwas -: A day celebrated in India on July 26th to honor the soldiers who fought in the Kargil War.
tribute -: Showing respect and admiration, often for someone who has done something brave or important.