Bengaluru, Jul 26 (PTI) Karnataka Chief Minister D K Shivakumar on Sunday called soldiers the “lifeblood of the nation”, as he paid tributes to those who laid down their lives during the Kargil War, on the occasion of Kargil Vijay Diwas.
The CM visited the National Military Memorial and paid respects to the martyrs.
On July 26, 1999, the Indian Army announced the successful culmination of ‘Operation Vijay’, declaring victory after a nearly three-month-long battle with Pakistani troops on the icy heights of Kargil in Ladakh.
The day is observed as Kargil Vijay Diwas to commemorate India’s victory in the war.
On the 27th anniversary of India’s victory in the 1999 Kargil conflict, the chief minister said the nation achieved victory at the cost of 527 precious lives, including 13 soldiers from Karnataka.
“My heart goes out for those martyrs and their families. I salute the supreme sacrifice of our martyrs,” he said, according to an official release.
Describing soldiers as the lifeblood of the nation, Shivakumar said they have stood up for the country in every conflict, including the Indo-Pak wars, the Indo-China war, the Kargil War, and during infiltration attempts along the borders.
“Our soldiers work round the clock to protect our borders. It is because of them that we are able to sleep peacefully in our homes,” he said.
Highlighting Karnataka’s contribution to national security, the chief minister said the state is the backbone of India’s defence ecosystem.
He pointed out that Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) manufactures fighter jets and helicopters, while Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) and Bharat Earth Movers Limited (BEML) provide critical support to the armed forces.
He also underlined the role of ISRO, DRDO, Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA), National Aerospace Laboratories (NAL), and the Central Food Technological Research Institute (CFTRI) in Mysuru in strengthening the country’s defence capabilities.
He also remembered Field Marshal K M Cariappa, India’s first Commander-in-Chief of the Indian Army, for his outstanding contribution to the nation.
Drawing an analogy, Shivakumar said soldiers, youth, women, farmers and taxpayers are like the five fingers of a hand. “When all the five come together, they form a mighty fist. It is this fist that is protecting our country and taking it forward,” he said.
The chief minister said this year’s Kargil Vijay Diwas was particularly significant, noting that, like the armed forces, the youth of the country had recently demonstrated their determination to protect the spirit of freedom.
“We have made immense sacrifices to earn our freedom. We cannot allow it to be taken away — either by forces outside our borders or from within. The free spirit of Bharat Mata cannot be snatched by anyone,” he said.
The CM also appealed to the family members of the brave defence forces to come up with any suggestions that will help their welfare.
“Our doors are open for any suggestions that will help the brave families. I appeal to you to come up with any suggestions in any sector. We are open to it,” he said. PTI KSU KH
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