CHANDIGARH, JULY 27 — Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann paid solemn tributes to the armed forces personnel who made the ultimate sacrifice during the 1999 Kargil conflict, declaring that their heroism continues to inspire generations. Marking the 27th anniversary of Kargil Vijay Diwas, the Chief Minister laid a ceremonial wreath at the War Memorial, engaged with ex-servicemen and families of fallen soldiers, and distributed five two-wheelers to differently abled veterans.
The Chief Minister asserted that 527 soldiers lost their lives while protecting national sovereignty during the war, including over 65 personnel from Punjab. He affirmed that the state administration stands firmly behind military families and veterans, maintaining a policy of granting financial assistance of ₹1 crore to the next of kin of service personnel who attain martyrdom in the line of duty.
“Soldiers who made the supreme sacrifice do not belong to just one family; they are the nation’s greatest treasure. The freedom and security we enjoy today are the result of the unparalleled sacrifices made by our brave soldiers,” stated Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann.
Interacting with cadets from the National Cadet Corps as well as the Maharaja Ranjit Singh and Mai Bhago Armed Forces Preparatory Institutes, the Chief Minister encouraged the youth to pursue careers in the defense services. He declared that serving the nation through the armed forces represents a noble calling and affirmed full state cooperation for aspiring defense personnel.
“The supreme sacrifice made by our brave soldiers will continue to inspire generations of youth to serve the nation with patriotism, dedication and selflessness. During the Kargil War, 527 soldiers laid down their lives in the service of the nation, including more than 65 brave sons of Punjab,” stated the Chief Minister.
The solemn occasion included a ceremonial Guard of Honour presented by the Punjab Armed Police Band, followed by a two-minute silence to honour the fallen soldiers. Senior state officials, including Defence Services Welfare Minister Mohinder Bhagat and armed forces representatives, attended the event.
