Kargil Vijay Diwas: Karnataka CM D.K. Shivakumar Pays Tribute to Martyrs, Highlights State’s Defence Contribution
Bengaluru, July 26: Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar on Sunday paid tribute to the soldiers who laid down their lives in the 1999 Kargil War, saying Kargil Vijay Diwas commemorates the triumph of the Indian Armed Forces and the hoisting of the Tricolour over the snow-capped Himalayas after defeating the enemy.
Recalling the 27th anniversary of India’s victory in the Kargil conflict, Shivakumar said the nation secured victory at the cost of 527 lives, including 13 soldiers from Karnataka. He said he saluted the supreme sacrifice of the martyrs and expressed solidarity with their families.
The Chief Minister said that, as a member of the Indian National Congress, he understood the value of sacrifice, noting that thousands of Congress workers had laid down their lives during India’s freedom struggle.
Describing soldiers as the lifeblood of the nation, Shivakumar said they had defended the country in every conflict, including the Indo-Pak wars, the Indo-China war, the Kargil War and during infiltration attempts along the borders. He said the country was able to live in peace because of the vigilance and sacrifice of its armed forces.
Highlighting Karnataka’s contribution to national security, he said the state was the backbone of India’s defence ecosystem. He noted that Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) manufactures fighter aircraft and helicopters, while Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) and Bharat Earth Movers Limited (BEML) provide critical support to the armed forces. He also highlighted the contributions of ISRO, DRDO, the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA), the National Aerospace Laboratories (NAL) and the Central Food Technological Research Institute (CFTRI) in Mysuru.
The Chief Minister also remembered Field Marshal K.M. Cariappa, India’s first Commander-in-Chief of the Indian Army, for his contribution to the nation.
Drawing an analogy, Shivakumar said soldiers, youth, women, farmers and taxpayers were like the five fingers of a hand that together formed a powerful fist protecting and strengthening the country.
He said this year’s Kargil Vijay Diwas was particularly significant and stressed that India’s hard-earned freedom must be protected from threats both outside and within the country.
Shivakumar also invited suggestions from the families of defence personnel on measures that could improve their welfare, assuring them that the state government remained open to implementing meaningful proposals.
Concluding his address, the Chief Minister once again paid tribute to the martyrs and ended his message with the slogans “Jai Hind” and “Jai Karnataka.”
About the Author
