Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru (SB)

Mangaluru, Jul 27: Dakshina Kannada Ex-servicemen Welfare Association, Lions Club International Mangaluru and Shastavu Sri Bhoothanatheswara Trust observed Kargil Vijay Divas at Kadri War Memorial here on Wednesday, July 26.

Capt Ganesh Karnik, Nidleguttu Sharath Bhandari, Vijaynath Vittal Shetty, and Rajan Vikram Datta offered floral tributes and lit candles to pay homage to the martyrs of the war.

Speaking on the occasion Capt Ganesh Karnik said, "Kargil victory is one of the historic moments for India. Our soldiers fought against the enemies and won a battle. It shows the strength of our army and their commitment and dedication towards the nation. Nowadays, we see everyone attached to political parties and other associations. They are under the influence of their organisations. But, soldiers and ex-servicemen keep themselves away from all this. They are the only group that think about the nation and its security and unity."

"The peaceful atmosphere of the nation is now spoiled due to the presence of a few anti-national elements. Kargil Vijay Divas is a tough reply to all these forces. Our army is one of the strongest forces in the world and we are their supporters. On this occasion, I would like to congratulate all our soldiers on their historic victory and my salute to those who sacrificed their lives in the war," he added.

Ex-army officer Rajan Vikram Datta said, "Pakistan thought they will definitely win the Kargil war as the Indian Army has to move upwards the Kargil hill and they has to move downwards. It is very difficult to move upwards on the Himalayan hills. But our soldiers did a tremendous job. Many of our soldiers sacrificed themselves for the nation. Many of them got wounded. As a result, on  July 26, 1999, Indian Army hoisted the national flag at Kargil and defeated the enemies."

"The Kargil war victory is an inspiration for the youngsters and future generations. Everyone has a responsibility of protecting the nation. We should encourage our children and youngsters to join army. We should give whole hearted support and respect to our soldiers and their families," he added.

Nidleguttu Sharath Bhandari said, "The remembrance of Kargil war martyrs should not be limited for a day. We should remember them everyday. We should support the martyrs' families and relatives. I am happy to see a large number of relatives of army personnels and public gathered here. It shows our attitude towards our soldiers. This should continue."

A large number of ex-servicemen, relatives of soldiers, and public attended the programme and paid tribute to Kargil war martyrs.