ITANAGAR, 26 Jul: Highlighting the importance of border regions, Governor KT Parnaik said that border villages are the nation’s first line of strength, and emphasised the need for infrastructure development, connectivity, and livelihood opportunities to enhance national security and resilience.
The governor said this while participating in the Kargil Vijay Diwas celebration in Rupa in West Kameng district on Sunday.
He laid a wreath at the war memorial of the 5 Mountain Division and paid floral tribute to the indomitable courage and supreme sacrifice of the brave hearts of the Indian armed forces personnel during the Kargil War. He also interacted with officers and JCOs who participated in the war.
In his address to the troops, the governor said that Kargil Vijay Diwas commemorates India’s historic victory in the 1999 Kargil War, fought over 83 days in some of the world’s most challenging high-altitude battlefields. He noted that, despite extreme weather, rugged terrains, and enemy occupation of strategic heights, the Indian armed forces displayed unmatched bravery and determination to reclaim every inch of Indian territory. He remembered the sacrifices of more than 500 soldiers and hailed the heroism of gallant warriors such as Captain Vikram Batra, Lieutenant Manoj Kumar Pandey, Grenadier Yogendra Singh Yadav, and Rifleman Sanjay Kumar.
The governor emphasised that Kargil was not only a military victory but also a triumph of national unity, where citizens across the country stood firmly behind the armed forces. He called upon the youths to draw inspiration from the courage, integrity, and selfless service of the Kargil heroes and contribute to the vision of Viksit Bharat@2047 through dedication, innovation, and patriotism.
The governor also stressed the importance of modernising the armed forces and strengthening strategic infrastructure to meet future security challenges. He expressed gratitude to serving soldiers, veterans, and border communities for their unwavering commitment to the nation.
Reaffirming the enduring spirit of Kargil, the governor called upon all citizens to uphold the ideals of courage, unity, and national service for which the Kargil heroes made the supreme sacrifice.
Parnaik complimented the 5 Mountain Division GOC and his division for organising the commemorative event in a befitting manner, and appreciated the participation of the local MLA, civil administration, veterans, and citizens.
Local MLA Tseten Chombay, West Kameng Deputy Commissioner Dr Dilip Kumar, SP DW Thungon, along with Army officers attended the commemoration. (Lok Bhavan)
