PM Modi Pays Homage to Kargil War Heroes at Drass
Prime Minister Narendra Modi attended the 25th anniversary celebrations of the Kargil War, paying homage to the brave soldiers who sacrificed their lives for the nation.
Arriving in a special plane at Srinagar International Airport's technical area on Friday morning, PM Modi then flew by Mi-17 helicopter to Drass town. He was received by Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo, and DGP R.R. Swain, along with J&K BJP Chief Ravinder Raina and other senior party officials.
PM Modi's visit to the Kargil War Memorial in Drass marks a significant moment in the silver jubilee celebrations of India's victory in the 1999 conflict. The Chief of Army Staff, General Upendra Dwivedi, who arrived in Drass on Thursday, attended various programs commemorating the historic victory. General Dwivedi also addressed the troops at the memorial.
During his visit, the Prime Minister will also visit Siachen Glacier, the world’s highest battlefield, guarded by the Indian Army. The Kargil War, which lasted for three months, saw the Indian Army, supported by the Air Force, push back Pakistani Army regulars from the rugged mountain tops. Over 500 Indian soldiers laid down their lives in one of the most challenging military operations in India’s history.
Ladakh Lieutenant Governor Brigadier (Retd) B.D. Mishra, the Army Chief, and senior commanders will also be present at the event.
In addition to honoring the Kargil War heroes, PM Modi will virtually inaugurate the Shinkun La tunnel project during his Ladakh visit. Once completed, the Shinkun La tunnel will be the highest in the world, constructed on the Nimu-Padum-Darcha road in Ladakh. The 4.1-kilometer-long twin-tube tunnel, located at an altitude of approximately 15,800 feet above sea level, will provide all-weather connectivity to Leh town, ensuring the prompt and efficient movement of armed forces and equipment. The project will also bolster economic and social development in the Ladakh region.
The tunnel will serve as a crucial link connecting the Lahaul Valley in Himachal Pradesh with the Zanskar Valley in Ladakh. Currently, there are two main routes to Leh: the Srinagar-Zojila-Kargil-Leh axis and the Manali-Atal Tunnel-Sarchu-Leh axis. The completion of the Shinkun La tunnel is expected to significantly enhance the connectivity and strategic capabilities of the region.
PM Modi's homage to the Kargil bravehearts and the launch of the Shinkun La tunnel project underscore India's commitment to honoring its heroes and advancing infrastructure to meet strategic and developmental needs.
