Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit the Kargil War Memorial on Friday to pay tribute to the 545 soldiers who sacrificed their lives during Operation Vijay. The Prime Minister's Office (PMO) announced that PM Modi will arrive at the memorial around 9:20 AM. During his visit, PM Modi will also interact with Veer Naris (war widows) and virtually initiate the first blast for the Shinkun La Tunnel Project.

PM Modi's Statement on Kargil Vijay Diwas

On Thursday, PM Modi shared on X, "Tomorrow, 26th July, is a very special day for every Indian. We will mark the 25th Kargil Vijay Diwas. It is a day to pay homage to all those who protect our nation. I will visit the Kargil War Memorial and pay tributes to our brave heroes. Work will also commence for the Shinkun La Tunnel Project. This project is important to improve connectivity to Leh, especially during bad weather."

Preparations at the Kargil War Memorial

Preparations at the Kargil War Memorial are in full swing ahead of the Prime Minister's visit, commemorating the 25th anniversary of the Kargil war.

Shinkun La Tunnel Project

The Shinkun La Tunnel Project, featuring a 4.1-kilometer-long twin-tube tunnel, will be constructed at an altitude of approximately 15,800 feet on the Nimu-Padum-Darcha road. This tunnel will provide all-weather connectivity to Leh. Upon completion, it will be the highest tunnel in the world, facilitating the swift movement of armed forces and equipment while fostering economic and social development in Ladakh.

Tributes from Leaders

Several leaders across party lines have paid their respects to the soldiers who lost their lives in the 1999 Kargil conflict.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah posted on X, "Kargil Vijay Diwas is a symbol of the unwavering resolve and valor of our brave soldiers. In the Kargil war, the soldiers displayed ultimate bravery in the challenging terrain of the Himalayas, forcing the enemy to retreat and hoisting the tricolor again in Kargil. Today, I salute the brave soldiers who protected our motherland with their courage. The grateful nation will never forget your sacrifice."

Congress President and Leader of Opposition in Rajya Sabha, Mallikarjun Kharge, also expressed his respects on X, stating, "Congratulations to our brave soldiers, their families, and all Indians on the occasion of the 25th 'Kargil Vijay Diwas'. We bow our heads in tribute to the martyrdom of our heroes who made the supreme sacrifice while protecting our motherland in the Kargil war. We are proud of their indomitable courage and valor. Jai Hind."

Union Minister and BJP President JP Nadda wrote, "Today, on 'Kargil Vijay Diwas', I pay my heartfelt tribute to the indomitable courage and sacrifice of the brave soldiers who gave their all in the service of Mother India. Hearty congratulations to all countrymen on 'Kargil Vijay Diwas' which reminds us of the resolve to keep the sovereignty and pride of the nation intact. This day, which reminds us of the valor, courage, and sacrifice of the Indian Armed Forces, will always inspire us to perform our duties towards the nation."