From the Sangh agenda to Pakistan policy, Atal Bihari Vajpayee was a man of contradictions. On his death anniversary, a look at a political life that defied pinning down.
Captain Vijayant Thapar was 22 when he died in the Kargil War on 29 June 1999. A quarter century later, his family keeps his legacy alive. ‘If you’re a kind human being, you’ll be a good soldier.’
In May 1999, Pakistani troops crossed the Line of Control in Kargil, occupying strategic heights. On 7 June 1999, then-Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee addressed the nation, condemning Pakistan’s invasion and rallying India to defend its borders.
A quarter of a century ago, the Pakistan Army was at one of its lowest points after getting defeated from a winning position. But it has now returned to centre stage despite severe political setbacks.
India observes 26 July each year as Kargil Vijay Diwas in memory of soldiers who laid down lives to secure key strategic heights captured by Pakistani intruders in 1999.
The book was launched as India celebrates the 25th anniversary of Kargil Vijay Diwas on 26 July. It commemorates our victory over Pakistan in the 1999 Kargil War.
The need for robust and adaptive defence structures is critical than ever in the contemporary global landscape, marked by evolving threats and technological advancements.
Being founded on class war, any State founded on Marxism is bound to set itself in opposition, bitter and all-out, against all other nations, libertarian commentator MA Venkata Rao wrote in 1963.
The 77th Republic Day Parade at Kartavya Path will showcase India’s operational synergy and self-reliance, highlighting combat readiness, indigenous weaponry and joint military operations.
Pakistan not only has zero chance of catching up with India in most areas, but will inevitably see the gap rising. Its leaders will offer its people the same snake oil in different bottles.
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