Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Saturday delivered a strong message to Pakistan while commemorating the 27th Kargil Vijay Diwas, asserting that any future dialogue with Islamabad would be limited to the issue of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). Addressing a gathering at the Kargil War Memorial in Dras, Singh said India remains fully prepared to counter any security challenge and warned against continued cross-border terrorism and infiltration.

Tribute to Kargil Heroes

The Defence Minister paid floral tributes to the soldiers who laid down their lives during the 1999 Kargil conflict. He said Kargil Vijay Diwas is not merely a commemorative date but a symbol of courage, sacrifice and patriotism that continues to inspire every Indian.

Singh recalled how Indian armed forces successfully repelled Pakistani intruders during Operation Vijay, reclaiming strategic mountain peaks under extremely difficult conditions.

'Talks Only on PoK'

Sending a clear diplomatic message to Pakistan, Singh said India has consistently sought peace but will not compromise on its sovereignty.

He stated that if bilateral talks are held in the future, they would focus only on Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, reiterating India's long-standing position that PoK is an integral part of India under illegal occupation.

Warning Against Terrorism

The Defence Minister accused Pakistan of continuing to rely on terrorism, infiltration and proxy warfare despite changing global realities.

He said that while India is focusing on development, innovation and technological advancement, Pakistan has failed to abandon policies that encourage cross-border terrorism. Any attempt to threaten India's peace or territorial integrity, he added, would receive a firm response from the Indian armed forces.

Operation Sindoor Mentioned

Rajnath Singh also referred to Operation Sindoor, saying the operation delivered a decisive blow to terrorists and their supporters. He said the success of the mission demonstrated India's resolve to respond strongly to threats against national security.

Armed Forces Being Modernised

Highlighting the government's focus on military modernisation, Singh said continuous efforts are being made to equip the armed forces with advanced technology, indigenous defence systems and better training.

During the event, demonstrations of drones, robotic mules and martial arts drills by the armed forces were also showcased. Cultural performances celebrating Ladakh's heritage were organised, followed by the traditional 'Shaurya Bhoj' attended by military veterans, gallantry award winners, families of martyrs, senior defence officials and local residents.

The Defence Minister said the bravery and sacrifice of the Kargil heroes continue to strengthen India's resolve to safeguard its borders and national interests.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday paid tribute to the soldiers of the Indian Armed Forces on the occasion of the 27th Kargil Vijay Diwas, honouring their courage, sacrifice and unwavering commitment to safeguarding India's sovereignty during the 1999 Kargil War.

In a post on X, the Prime Minister expressed the nation's gratitude to the soldiers who fought under extreme conditions during Operation Vijay, describing their bravery as a lasting source of national pride.

"On Kargil Vijay Diwas, our nation expresses gratitude to the brave soldiers for their extraordinary courage and commitment towards securing India. Their valour in the face of the most formidable conditions will forever remain a source of national pride. Their unwavering patriotism and devotion to duty will continue to inspire generations," PM Modi said.

Nation Marks 27th Kargil Vijay Diwas

India is observing the 27th anniversary of Kargil Vijay Diwas, commemorating its victory in the 1999 Kargil War. The day honours the 527 Indian soldiers who laid down their lives while reclaiming strategic mountain peaks from Pakistani intruders in the Kargil sector under Operation Vijay.

The Kargil conflict, fought between May and July 1999, remains the only conventional war between two nuclear-armed neighbours. Indian forces successfully recaptured key positions in Kargil, Dras, Batalik, Mushkoh and Kaksar without crossing the Line of Control (LoC), despite operating at altitudes above 5,000 metres under extremely challenging conditions.

Over the years, Kargil Vijay Diwas has become a symbol of military courage, national unity and India's commitment to defending its territorial integrity.

Amit Shah Salutes Soldiers' Valour

Union Home Minister Amit Shah also paid homage to the fallen soldiers, describing Kargil Vijay Diwas as a symbol of the Indian Army's indomitable courage.

He said the success of Operation Vijay demonstrated the determination and bravery of Indian soldiers, who overcame hostile terrain and enemy positions in the snow-covered Himalayan heights to safeguard the country's sovereignty.

Shah paid tribute to all personnel who made the supreme sacrifice in defence of the nation.

Rajnath Singh Highlights Security Challenges

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, who attended commemorative events at the Kargil War Memorial in Dras on Saturday, said the security challenges faced by India had not diminished since the Kargil conflict.

Referring to continuing threats such as infiltration and proxy warfare, Singh asserted that the Indian Army remains fully prepared to respond to any challenge.

He also reiterated the government's commitment to modernising the armed forces through advanced technology, enhanced training and the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative aimed at strengthening indigenous defence capabilities.

Rahul Gandhi Also Pays Tribute

Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi also remembered the soldiers who lost their lives during the Kargil War, saying the nation would remain forever indebted to their courage, valour and supreme sacrifice.

Legacy of Operation Vijay

Kargil Vijay Diwas serves as an annual reminder of one of India's most significant military victories. The success of Operation Vijay not only restored control over strategic positions in Ladakh but also led to major reforms in India's defence preparedness, intelligence coordination and national security framework.

As the nation commemorates the 27th anniversary of the victory, tributes continue to pour in for the soldiers whose sacrifice remains a defining chapter in India's military history.