Pays tribute to Kargil martyrs at Drass; says Pakistan has institutionalised terrorism, lauds armed forces’ courage, resolve
Drass, July 26: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Sunday asserted that India will hold no talks with Pakistan except on Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).
Addressing the Kargil Vijay Diwas commemorative function at the Kargil War Memorial in Drass, Singh, as per the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), said, “Any future dialogue with the neighbouring country would only be on the issue of PoK, which is as an integral part of India under Pakistan’s illegal occupation.”
He said, “Pakistan has institutionalised terrorism as part of its state policy and that there is no distinction between its military establishment and terrorist organisations.”
Singh said the Indian Army, through Operation Sindoor, had delivered a strong response to terrorists and their supporters that India possesses the capability to respond with even greater force to any hostile act.
“Every attempt to threaten India’s sovereignty will be met with a befitting response from our armed forces,” he said.
Paying tributes to the soldiers who laid down their lives during the 1999 Kargil War, the Defence Minister described the conflict as not only a military and diplomatic victory but also a defining moment that showcased the courage, determination and supreme sacrifice of Indian soldiers before the world.
He said the names of the martyrs engraved at the Kargil War Memorial represent every region, religion and community of the country, reflecting India’s unity and sending a strong message to those who seek to divide the nation.
Drawing a comparison between India and Pakistan, Singh said India is progressing through innovation, technology, entrepreneurship and space exploration, while Pakistan continues to promote terrorism, radicalisation and cross-border infiltration.
“India is building semiconductors, startups, satellites and digital infrastructure, whereas Pakistan is nurturing terrorism and proxy warfare,” he said, adding that the armed forces remain fully prepared to counter any hostile designs.
Recalling the sacrifices made during the Kargil War, Singh said many soldiers were in their early twenties with dreams and aspirations, yet willingly laid down their lives in service of the nation. He also remembered the immense grief endured by the families of the fallen soldiers, including their mothers, wives and children.
On the occasion of Kargil Vijay Diwas, the Defence Minister paid homage to all soldiers who sacrificed their lives to protect India’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, describing them as devoted sons of Mother India whose courage and sacrifice will continue to inspire generations—(KNO)
