Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla and Chief Minister N. Biren Singh led Kargil Vijay Diwas tributes, honouring the fallen heroes of the 1999 Kargil War. Leaders highlighted patriotism, sacrifice, national unity and the enduring legacy of India’s Armed Forces.
Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla and Chief Minister N. Biren Singh on Sunday led the state in paying heartfelt tributes to the brave soldiers who made the supreme sacrifice during the 1999 Kargil War, marking the 27th anniversary of Kargil Vijay Diwas with solemn ceremonies and messages of patriotism.
The commemorative programme, organised by the Manipur State Film Development Society (MSFDS) in Imphal, brought together senior ministers, civil and police officials, security personnel, ex-servicemen and Veer Naris to honour the courage and sacrifice of the Indian Armed Forces.
Addressing the gathering, Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla said that the nation stands united in saluting the unparalleled courage, unwavering determination and supreme sacrifice of the soldiers who defended India’s sovereignty and territorial integrity during the Kargil conflict. He remarked that Kargil Vijay Diwas is not only a day of remembrance but also an occasion to renew the country’s gratitude towards the armed forces and draw inspiration from their extraordinary courage and selfless service.
The Governor highlighted Manipur’s rich legacy of patriotism, noting that people from the state have served with distinction in the Indian Army, Navy, Air Force, Assam Rifles and Central Armed Police Forces. He said their contribution to national security remains invaluable and continues to inspire future generations.
Paying homage to the Kargil heroes, Governor Bhalla also acknowledged the sacrifices made by the Indian Armed Forces in safeguarding the nation over the years, including their recent contributions during Operation Sindoor. He further honoured the Veer Naris and Veer Matas, describing their resilience, strength and sacrifice as a lasting source of inspiration for the nation.
Calling Kargil Vijay Diwas an enduring symbol of patriotism, sacrifice and national pride, the Governor urged citizens to remember the martyrs and extend continued respect and support to their families. He also encouraged the youth of Manipur to embrace discipline, commitment and patriotism by dedicating themselves to serving the nation.
Emphasising that national security is a shared responsibility, Governor Bhalla appealed to citizens to strengthen peace, harmony and national integration as India moves towards the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.
Delivering the presidential address, Chief Minister N. Biren Singh said Kargil Vijay Diwas is observed across the country to commemorate India’s historic victory in the Kargil War, achieved through the exceptional bravery, determination and professionalism of the Indian Armed Forces.
Recalling the events of the 1999 conflict, the Chief Minister noted that the Kargil War, fought between May and July, posed a significant challenge to the nation after Pakistani Army personnel, supported by infiltrators, crossed into Indian territory in Jammu and Kashmir. Their objective was to disrupt National Highway 1-A connecting Srinagar and Leh, but the strategic route was successfully defended by Indian soldiers.
He highlighted that the Indian Army’s Operation Vijay, which lasted 78 days, ultimately secured victory despite the immense challenges faced during the conflict. Around 527 soldiers laid down their lives in the operation, including five brave soldiers from Manipur who made the supreme sacrifice in the service of the nation.
The Chief Minister also acknowledged the Indian Air Force’s Operation Safed Sagar, during which thousands of air sorties and helicopter missions provided vital support to ground forces. He praised the courage of Air Force personnel, stating that their precision strikes successfully disrupted enemy positions and supply routes despite operating under extremely difficult conditions.
In addition, he highlighted the Indian Navy’s Operation Talwar, which effectively disrupted Pakistani maritime operations by targeting key ports and sea routes, significantly weakening the enemy’s logistical capabilities during the conflict.
Khemchand Singh stressed that the combined efforts of the Army, Air Force and Navy demonstrated exceptional coordination, courage and unwavering commitment to protecting India’s territorial integrity. He urged the people of Manipur to work collectively with a shared sense of responsibility in contributing to national development and building a stronger, united India.
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The observance was attended by Home Minister Konthoujam Govindas Singh, Art, Culture and Tourism Minister Khuraijam Loken Singh, legislators, Chief Secretary Puneet Kumar Goel, Security Advisor Kuldiep Singh, Director General of Police Rajiv Singh, senior civil and police officials, personnel from central security forces, ex-servicemen and Veer Naris, who joined the state in paying respectful homage to the heroes whose sacrifices continue to inspire generations of Indians.
