Defense Minister Rajnath Singh Highlights India's Resolute Response Capability and Future Focus on PoK at Kargil Vijay Diwas
Dras, Ladakh, July 26, 2026: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh highlighted India's capacity to counter any provocations by Pakistan with significant force, emphasizing that any future discussions with Pakistan would solely focus on Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), which he termed an integral part of India under illegal occupation.
While speaking at the 27th Kargil Vijay Diwas commemorations at the Kargil War Memorial in Dras, the Defence Minister emphasized that any threats to India's sovereignty would receive the same firm response as seen during Operation Sindoor.
"Operation Sindoor's success illustrates India's prowess to address Pakistan's every misadventure with substantial force," Rajnath Singh stated, affirming that India does not differentiate between terrorists and the entities that support them.
He accused Pakistan of using terrorism as state policy, alleging that the military not only harbors terrorist groups but collaborates with them. He pointed out that through Operation Sindoor, India demonstrated its commitment to treating terrorists and their supporters equally.
Contrasting the development paths of India and Pakistan since the Kargil War, the Defence Minister noted India's progress in technology and innovation, while accusing Pakistan of continuing to support terrorism and infiltration.
He remarked that as India is involved in designing semiconductor chips, Pakistan remains engaged in terrorism; as India builds a robust start-up ecosystem, Pakistan is fostering a terror ecosystem. Singh highlighted that India is making advancements in semiconductors, satellites, data centers, and digital payments via UPI, while Pakistan focuses on proxy warfare, sleeper cells, radicalization, and cross-border terrorism.
Rajnath Singh reiterated that the Government has empowered the Armed Forces to act decisively against threats, expressing confidence that no enemy would dare challenge India while its soldiers vigilantly guard the borders.
Honoring the soldiers who sacrificed their lives during the 1999 Kargil War, the Defence Minister paid homage to heroes such as Captain Vikram Batra, PVC, and Captain Manoj Kumar Pandey, PVC, underscoring Kargil Vijay Diwas as an inspirational occasion for India's youth. He noted that the event serves as a reminder of the importance of sacrifice and service in nation-building.
Rajnath Singh pointed out that the Kargil War Memorial symbolizes national unity, with names from across India inscribed on its walls, serving as a testament to the country's diversity.
Referring to ongoing international conflicts, including those in West Asia and between Russia and Ukraine, he remarked that modern wars test not just military prowess but also the endurance and resolve of nations. He encouraged every Indian to develop a "soldier-like consciousness," urging readiness to contribute to national defense when needed.
The Defence Minister explained that Viksit Bharat@2047 extends beyond economic growth, incorporating strategic strength, cultural pride, social harmony, and national security, all reflecting the commitment shown by the Kargil War heroes.
Reaffirming the Government's dedication to national security, Singh noted ongoing efforts to enhance border infrastructure and modernize the Armed Forces to address future operational needs, drawing lessons from the Kargil War.
Invoking Captain Vikram Batra's famous slogan, "Yeh Dil Maange More," he highlighted India's pursuit of self-reliance in defense manufacturing, noting that the importation of defense equipment has decreased significantly.
He listed various indigenous defense systems boosting the Armed Forces, such as the Akash-Teer air defense control system, Akash missile, INS Vikrant, LCA Tejas, LCH Prachand, ALH Dhruv, Arjun Main Battle Tank, Pinaka rocket launcher, Astra missile, and advanced drone systems. However, he emphasized the necessity for India to continue developing next-generation defense technologies.
Earlier, Rajnath Singh paid tribute at the Kargil War Memorial and observed a moment of silence for the soldiers who sacrificed their lives in Operation Vijay in 1999. He was accompanied by Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh Vinai Kumar Saxena, Chief of the Army Staff General Dhiraj Seth, and other senior military officials, veterans, and dignitaries.
As part of the commemorations, the Defence Minister signed the Visitors' Book, attended the "Gaurav Gatha" presentation, inaugurated a Virtual Walkthrough Portal on the Kargil War, and honored the fallen at the Hut of Remembrance and Veer Bhoomi. He also interacted with soldiers, veterans, and families before concluding the Shaurya Vijay Yatra, a motorcycle rally starting from the National War Memorial in New Delhi.
In New Delhi, Minister of State for Defence Sanjay Seth laid a wreath at the National War Memorial. He was joined by Chief of Defence Staff General N.S. Raja Subramani, other military chiefs, and officials, who also paid tribute to the fallen soldiers.
