Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar. File
Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar on Saturday (July 25, 2026) paid tributes to the soldiers who laid down their lives in the 1999 Kargil War, saying their sacrifices were the foundation of the country’s freedom, security and national pride.
Addressing the Kargil Vijay Diwas commemorative programme at the National Military Memorial near the Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium in Bengaluru, Mr. Shivakumar said the day marked the victory of the Indian armed forces over enemy forces in the Kargil conflict and the triumph of the national flag in the Himalayas.
“Twenty-seven years ago, our brave soldiers defeated the enemy and ensured that the Tricolour continued to fly high. Our heroes may have become martyrs, but their legacy is eternal. I pay my heartfelt tributes to all those who laid down their lives for the nation,” he said.
13 from Karnataka
Recalling the conflict, the Chief Minister said 527 soldiers were martyred during the Kargil War, including 13 from Karnataka. “My heart goes out to the martyrs and their families. I salute their supreme sacrifice,” he said.
Mr. Shivakumar said India’s armed forces had remained steadfast in protecting the country’s borders through every conflict, including the Indo-Pak wars, the Indo-China war, the Kargil conflict and during infiltration attempts.
“Our soldiers stand guard day and night so that we can sleep peacefully in our homes,” he said.
Karnataka’s role in defence
Highlighting Karnataka’s contribution to national security, the Chief Minister described the State as the backbone of India’s defence ecosystem.
He said institutions such as Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), Bharat Earth Movers Limited (BEML), the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) and the National Aerospace Laboratories (NAL) had played a vital role in strengthening the country’s defence capabilities.
He also recalled the contribution of Field Marshal K.M. Cariappa, India’s first Commander-in-Chief of the Indian Army.
Appeal for unity, support for veterans’ families
Describing soldiers, youth, women, farmers and taxpayers as the “five fingers” of the nation, Mr. Shivakumar said they collectively formed the strength that protected and advanced the country.
He said the country had earned its freedom through immense sacrifice and it should not be allowed to be threatened by forces either from outside or within.
The Chief Minister also assured the families of serving and retired defence personnel of the State government’s support.
“Karnataka is home to lakhs of soldiers’ families. Our government is committed to safeguarding your welfare. We welcome your suggestions and will consider any proposal that benefits the families of our defence personnel,” he said.
The programme, organised to mark the 27th anniversary of Kargil Vijay Diwas, was attended by serving and retired defence personnel, ex-servicemen, government officials and members of the public..
Published – July 26, 2026 01:00 pm IST
