On the occasion of Kargil Vijay Diwas, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath visited the Kargil Shaheed Smriti Vatika in Lucknow to pay homage to the martyrs of the Kargil war. This tribute was part of an event organized by the Lucknow Municipal Corporation. During the event, CM Yogi remembered all the soldiers who sacrificed their lives for the nation and acknowledged their ultimate sacrifice for the country’s security. He also honored the families of the martyrs and addressed them, expressing heartfelt condolences for their loss. He praised their unwavering commitment to the motherland despite the pain of losing their loved ones.

In his address, CM Yogi said, “I offer my sincere tribute to all the brave sons of Bharat Mata who fought to protect our borders. I extend my deepest sympathy to the families who have lost their loved ones. Their sacrifice stands as an example of unflinching devotion to the nation.”

Fighting Against Terrorism and Challenges

CM Yogi also took the opportunity to highlight the role of Pakistan in spreading terrorism, citing the 2019 Pulwama attack, where 22 innocent lives were lost due to terrorist activities supported by Pakistan. He further emphasized how the Indian Army swiftly responded, teaching Pakistan a lesson in less than 22 minutes. The Indian forces destroyed terrorist camps in Pakistan, and Prime Minister Narendra Modi had expressed his determination that those behind the Pulwama attack would pay the price for their actions.

CM Yogi noted that even in the face of multiple threats, including adversaries from various countries, the Indian Army had shown immense courage and strength. He pointed out that despite the challenges, Pakistan’s aggression was ultimately defeated, forcing them to surrender.

Unity and Strength for a Developed India

Addressing the issue of national unity, CM Yogi remarked that if India is to realize its dream of becoming a developed nation, we must remain vigilant against conspiracies that attempt to divide the country. He warned against forces that try to create rifts based on caste, region, and language, undermining the social fabric of the nation. “In any phase of history, India has never been weak in strength, intellect, or education. However, there are those who do not want a strong, prosperous, and developed India. They sow discord and incite the enemies of the nation. Their sympathies are not with the poor,” he added.

The Kargil War: A Test of India’s Valor

CM Yogi emphasized that the Kargil Vijay Diwas is a day to remember the valor of India’s brave soldiers. On this day, India successfully completed Operation Vijay and dealt a crushing blow to Pakistan. “This day is symbolic of the courage and determination of the Indian Army,” he said. “The Kargil War was an unprovoked war imposed by Pakistan on India. The army received information about infiltrators on the mountains, and upon confirming this, the government decided to take action. Afterward, Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee made the decision to fight back, despite international pressure.”

The Response to Pakistan’s Aggression

On Kargil Vijay Diwas, CM Yogi also highlighted how India stood firm against external pressures. He recalled that on the same day, Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee declared India’s victory in the Kargil War. At the time, the President of Pakistan had traveled to the United States, but despite the diplomatic pressure, Prime Minister Vajpayee remained resolute. “Whether it was America or any other power in the world, India would never bow down to anyone,” CM Yogi quoted Prime Minister Vajpayee. “In the end, Pakistan had no option but to surrender and retreat its infiltrators.”

Challenges of Kargil: Unparalleled Courage of Indian Soldiers

CM Yogi also recounted the extreme challenges faced by Indian soldiers in Kargil. “Kargil was one of the most difficult terrains, where temperatures dropped to minus 50 degrees Celsius,” he said. “Despite these harsh conditions, our soldiers exhibited unparalleled courage and triumphed over Pakistan’s cowardice. Our soldiers didn’t retreat, and that’s why we achieved victory in Kargil. Those who retreat never find success. Those who sow hatred in society never succeed.”

The Importance of Remembering Sacrifices

CM Yogi further emphasized the significance of remembering the sacrifices made by the soldiers and their families. He stated that it is important for the nation to honor and respect the martyrs, ensuring that their contributions are not forgotten. “We owe our peaceful lives and borders to the sacrifices of our soldiers. Today, as we commemorate their bravery, we renew our commitment to safeguarding our nation’s integrity and sovereignty.”

Moral Strength and National Unity

In his address, CM Yogi stressed the moral strength of the Indian Army and its role in fostering national unity. He stated that the unity of the country is essential for its progress and that efforts to divide India must be thwarted. He urged citizens to stand together, regardless of their caste, region, or language, to build a prosperous and strong nation. “Only through unity can India fulfill its potential and become a global leader,” he added.

In conclusion, CM Yogi saluted the bravery and sacrifices of the soldiers who fought in the Kargil War and expressed his unwavering belief in the strength of India’s military and its people. He reiterated that the nation must remain united in its pursuit of development and progress. On this Kargil Vijay Diwas, he called on every citizen to honor the legacy of the martyrs and contribute to the nation’s continued growth. “The sacrifices of the Kargil heroes should inspire us to work towards a stronger and more united India,” he concluded.

This day serves as a reminder of the courage and sacrifices that shaped the future of the nation, and it is crucial that India continues to honor these heroes by striving for excellence and maintaining the unity that is essential for its prosperity.