27th Kargil Vijay Diwas was observed with patriotic fervour at the War Memorial, Singhay Namgyal Chowk, Leh, on July 26, as people from all walks of life came together to honour the brave soldiers who made the supreme sacrifice during the 1999 Kargil War.

The commemorative programme was attended by Veer Naris, war veterans, ex-servicemen, serving defence personnel, civil officers and members of the public, who paid heartfelt tributes to the nation's heroes.

Divisional Commissioner, Ladakh, Shurbir Singh, IAS, attended the event as the Chief Guest.

Addressing the gathering, Shurbir Singh recalled the courage and sacrifice of the soldiers who fought to safeguard the nation's sovereignty and territorial integrity during the Kargil War. He noted that while thousands of soldiers displayed exceptional bravery during the conflict, 32 brave sons of Ladakh laid down their lives in the line of duty. Their sacrifice, he said, remains a lasting inspiration and a proud chapter in the nation's history.

The President of the Ex-Servicemen Association, Leh, delivered the vote of thanks and expressed gratitude to the Chief Guest, dignitaries, Veer Naris, war veterans, ex-servicemen, serving personnel and all participants for joining the commemoration and paying homage to the martyrs.

A one-minute silence was observed in memory of Late Colonel Sonam Wangchuk (Retd.), MVC, fondly remembered as the Lion of Ladakh and a decorated Kargil War hero, in recognition of his exemplary service and sacrifice for the nation.

The programme concluded with a felicitation ceremony in which Veer Naris, war veterans and ex-servicemen were honoured for their invaluable service to the nation, particularly their contributions during the Kargil War.

Among those present were Administrative Secretary, Tourism Department, Sanjit Rodrigues, IAS; Deputy Inspector General, Ladakh Range, Dr. Koushal Kumar Sharma, IPS; Deputy Commissioner, Leh, Romil Singh Donk, IAS; former Member of Parliament Thupstan Chhewang; Venerable Bhikkhu Sanghasena; Additional Superintendent of Police, Leh; Director, Rajya Sainik Board, Ladakh; representatives of various religious organisations; political leaders; officers of the Civil Administration and Ladakh Police; ex-servicemen; and members of the public.