The Eastern Naval Command (ENC) on Sunday (July 26, 2026) paid tribute to the heroes of the 1999 Kargil War as the nation marked the 27th anniversary of Kargil Vijay Diwas.

A wreath-laying ceremony was held at the Victory at Sea War Memorial on RK Beach in Visakhapatnam, honouring the courage and supreme sacrifice of the soldiers who laid down their lives during Operation Vijay.

Vice Admiral Susheel Menon, Chief of Staff of the Eastern Naval Command, led the observance by laying a floral wreath at the memorial. He was joined by military leaders, including Colonel V. Samuel Prakash, representing the Army, and Group Captain P. Shyam Kumar, representing the Air Force.

The event featured a ceremonial 50-member guard parade at the venue. Attendees observed a two-minute silence in memory of the brave hearts who made the ultimate sacrifice in the service of the nation. Observed annually on July 26, Kargil Vijay Diwas commemorates India’s historic military victory in the Kargil sector and serves as a poignant reminder of the unwavering courage, indomitable spirit, and selfless devotion to duty displayed by the Armed Forces during the conflict.

In a statement issued on the occasion, the ENC reiterated its commitment to upholding the legacy of India’s fallen heroes while safeguarding the nation’s maritime interests under the tenets of duty, honour, and courage.

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..