On Friday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi celebrated the 25th anniversary of India’s Kargil War victory, declaring it a triumph of the nation rather than any particular government or political group.
Addressing a gathering at the Kargil War Memorial, PM Modi emphasized that the victory belonged to the 1.40 crore people of India, acknowledging the valor of the soldiers who achieved this historic win in 1999.
Prime Minister Modi, who visited the Kargil War Memorial and paid homage to the fallen heroes, criticized previous administrations for their lack of commitment to honoring the country’s military achievements.
The Prime Minister remarked, “For 70 years, the demand for constructing war memorials was consistently avoided. Many past leaders did not participate in Kargil victory celebrations. Today, I have the honor to join the silver jubilee celebrations, a privilege granted by the people’s mandate.”
PM Modi: Previous Governments Saw Defense Forces As Ceremonial, Our Admin Sees Them As Guardians Of National Security
PM Modi described how earlier governments regarded defense forces merely for ceremonial purposes, contrasting this with his administration’s view of the military as essential guardians of national security and integrity.
The Prime Minister however did not spare criticism for past administrations regarding defense matters.
He further accused them of failing to provide the military with modern equipment and resisting initiatives like the Agnipath Scheme, which aims to rejuvenate the armed forces.
PM Modi refuted claims that the scheme was a cost-saving measure, pointing out the long-term nature of pension eligibility.
“Critics suggest that the Agnipath Scheme is a way to save on pensions. Yet, a soldier recruited today will only be eligible for pensions in 30 years, by which time I would be 105. Such arguments are baseless and misleading,” PM Modi asserted.
The Prime Minister also highlighted the progress made in defense equipment under his government, noting that India’s defense forces are now not only equipped with the latest technology but also exporting military equipment.
The government has significantly increased the defense budget to over Rs 1.25 lakh crore.
PM Modi Highlights Ladakh Development
In his address, PM Modi also spotlighted development efforts in Ladakh.
He carried out the first blast of the Shinkun La tunnel, a crucial infrastructure project aimed at enhancing connectivity between the Zanskar region of Ladakh and Himachal Pradesh.
This tunnel is likely to provide all-weather road access and boost regional development.
PM Modi reported a substantial increase in Ladakh’s budget allocation, from Rs 1,100 crore to Rs 6,000 crore, underscoring ongoing improvements in infrastructure, water supply, and digital connectivity.
He highlighted achievements such as 90 percent safe drinking water availability under the Jal Jeevan Mission, progress on the Zojila Tunnel, and enhanced 4G connectivity.
Earlier in the day, PM Modi laid a wreath at the Kargil War Memorial to honor over 545 martyrs who played a crucial role in the 1999 conflict.
He also visited the war memorial museum in Dras, paying tribute to the legacy of valor and sacrifice that defines the Kargil victory.
कारगिल में मां भारती के लिए मर-मिटने वाले वीर सपूतों के शौर्य और पराक्रम का साक्षी बना। pic.twitter.com/YYmuUJ85Uo
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) July 26, 2024
Also Read: PM Modi Defends Agnipath Scheme, Condemns Opposition For Politicizing National Defense
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