Arunachal CM Pema Khandu Pays Tribute to Kargil War Heroes at Drass Memorial

Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu visited the Kargil War Memorial in Drass on Friday to pay homage to the soldiers who laid down their lives during the 1999 conflict. His visit, on the eve of Kargil Vijay Diwas, was marked by a solemn wreath-laying ceremony and a personal message honouring the spirit of the Indian Armed Forces.

Remembering the Sacrifice

Standing at the foot of the memorial that overlooks the mountains once gripped by fierce combat, Khandu paid his respects to the fallen heroes who defended India’s sovereignty during the Kargil War. He expressed gratitude not just as a public figure, but as a citizen of a border state that shares strategic and emotional ties with the armed forces.

Khandu also interacted with soldiers and officers posted in the region, thanking them for their service in some of the country’s most challenging terrain.

Why Khandu’s Presence Matters

As the Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh — a state that shares a sensitive border with China — Khandu’s presence in Drass carries strong symbolic value. It reflects the deep connection between India’s northeastern frontier states and the Indian Army, whose presence ensures peace and stability in often-volatile border zones.

For many residents in Tier 2 and Tier 3 towns in the northeast, the military is not a distant institution but part of everyday life. Families in places like Tawang, Tezpur, and Bomdila have sons and daughters in uniform — which makes Kargil Vijay Diwas more personal than ceremonial.

A Moment of National Reflection

Kargil Vijay Diwas, observed annually on July 26, marks India’s victory in the 1999 war. It serves as a reminder of the resilience and bravery shown by Indian soldiers during one of the most difficult high-altitude conflicts in modern military history. The Drass War Memorial, located in Ladakh, has become a site of national significance, drawing tributes from across the country.

Khandu’s visit also spotlighted the role of political leaders in keeping military memory alive beyond just ceremonial duties — reinforcing that remembrance should not be limited to anniversaries alone.

Closing Thoughts

Pema Khandu’s tribute at Drass was more than just protocol — it was a heartfelt acknowledgment of courage, duty, and national pride. For young Indians, especially those from regions closely linked to the defence forces, moments like these are reminders of the sacrifices that continue to protect the country’s borders. And as Kargil Vijay Diwas approaches, it brings the nation together in honouring those who stood firm when it mattered most.