Mera Yuva Bharat (MY Bharat), Ladakh, organised a grand Kargil Vijay Diwas Padyatra in Kargil on July 26 to commemorate the courage, sacrifice and patriotism of the Indian Armed Forces during the 1999 Kargil War.

The padyatra was flagged off by Waseem Ramzan Dar, Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM), Sankoo, in the presence of Raj Kumar, Principal of Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya (JNV), Khumbathang. Hundreds of MY Bharat volunteers, civil society members, defence personnel, ex-servicemen, government officials and local residents participated in the march, reflecting a strong spirit of patriotism and national unity.

Addressing the gathering, Jitendra Sahare, District Youth Officer, Kargil, highlighted the significance of Kargil Vijay Diwas and urged young people to draw inspiration from the courage, discipline and selfless service of the armed forces. He said such programmes help instil the spirit of nationalism while keeping alive the memories of the nation's heroes.

Raj Kumar, Principal of JNV Khumbathang, emphasised the importance of nurturing values of patriotism, discipline and national service among students. He encouraged youth to honour the sacrifices of the brave soldiers by contributing positively to nation-building and becoming responsible citizens.

In his address, Waseem Ramzan Dar paid rich tributes to the soldiers who laid down their lives during the Kargil War. He appreciated MY Bharat for organising the commemorative event and said Kargil Vijay Diwas serves as a reminder of the courage, determination and unwavering commitment of the Indian Armed Forces in safeguarding the nation's sovereignty. He also called upon the youth to remain united and actively contribute to the country's development with the same spirit of dedication and service.

Khushal Gupta, Deputy Director, MY Bharat Anantnag, expressed gratitude to the district administration, Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya, defence personnel, ex-servicemen, volunteers and all stakeholders for their support in making the event a success. He reaffirmed MY Bharat's commitment to engaging youth in activities that promote patriotism, civic responsibility and national integration.

As a mark of respect, ex-servicemen and defence personnel were felicitated for their invaluable service to the nation.

The programme began with a soulful rendition of "Vande Mataram", followed by the National Anthem, creating an atmosphere of pride and reverence. The patriotic march commenced from Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya, Khumbathang, proceeded along the scenic Suru River, and concluded at Saliskot.

Throughout the route, participants sang patriotic songs, raised slogans in honour of the nation and the armed forces, and paid homage to the brave soldiers whose valour secured India's victory in the Kargil War.

The event concluded with participants taking a pledge to uphold the ideals of unity, patriotism and selfless service while remembering the supreme sacrifices made by the nation's brave soldiers.