Rajnath Singh Warns 'Enemy Intentions Unchanged', Proxy War Remains Challenge on Kargil Vijay Diwas Eve

Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, during a two-day visit to Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh, stated that the intentions of India's adversaries have not changed and that proxy war continues to pose a security challenge in the region. Speaking at the Shaurya Bhoj in Drass on the eve of the 27th Kargil Vijay Diwas, Singh emphasised the need to remain vigilant.

Without naming any specific country, Singh said, 'As we celebrate the Kargil War victory, we have to remind ourselves of the challenges. The intention of our enemy remains the same. Proxy war is still used as a tactic. Our Army is ready to foil these nefarious designs.'

The Defence Minister arrived in Srinagar on Saturday morning and was received by Jammu & Kashmir Lieutenant-Governor Manoj Sinha. Officials stated that the two discussed the current security situation in the Union Territory, particularly in the wake of the Anantnag attack that resulted in the death of a police constable three days prior.

Later, Singh visited the war memorial in Drass, Ladakh, where he paid tribute to the soldiers who lost their lives during the 1999 Kargil War against Pakistan. He attended the 'Shaurya Sandhya' event, honouring the bravery of the armed forces.

'It's these sacrifices that make people of India feel safe. When oxygen levels dropped in 1999, the guns of our soldiers did not fall silent till the Tricolour was unfurled as a mark of victory. We are proud of the valiant soldiers and their degree of courage,' Singh said.

He credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi for maintaining high morale among soldiers and noted ongoing investments in modernisation of equipment and training. 'We are hopeful to see the Indian Army among the leading forces in the world,' he added.

Singh asserted that the Indian armed forces are fully prepared to face any challenge from the country's adversaries. 'India's military remains vigilant, battle-ready, and capable of protecting the nation's sovereignty,' he said.

He stated that no entity dares to cast an evil eye on India as long as the patriotism and determination of the country's soldiers remain unshaken, adding that their sacrifices ensure every Indian can pursue their dreams without fear.

Ten families of Kargil War heroes were felicitated during the event. Commemorative activities were held at 'Yudh Sansmaran' at Lamochen View Point, where veterans and families of fallen soldiers remembered the sacrifices made during Operation Vijay. A documentary and special presentations highlighting the valour of 40 war heroes were screened.

Singh will be the chief guest at the national homage ceremony on July 26. He is expected to lay a wreath at the war memorial, interact with Veer Naris and Veer Maas (widows and mothers of martyrs), inaugurate a virtual walkthrough portal, and flag off the Shaurya Vijay Yatra motorcycle rally.