PM Modi Honors Kargly Heroes, Showcases India's Indigenous Defence Drive

On July 26, the nation marked Kargil Vijay Diwas, a day that, for many of us, still feels raw and reverent. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, speaking on his monthly radio show ‘Mann Ki Baat’, took a moment to bow his head and thank the soldiers who gave everything in the 1999 Kargil war. He reminded listeners that the hills of Kargil, the bitter cold and the fierce opposition were all met with an “extraordinary courage” that still echoes in our hearts.

Modi’s words were peppered with genuine emotion – “the towering peaks, the harsh weather, the enemy’s challenge… every circumstance stood before our soldiers, but their resolve was greater.” He went on to say that today, on Kargil Vijay Diwas, he “pays humble respects to all the brave martyrs and valiant soldiers.” It sounded almost like a conversation with a friend, a little pause here, a sigh of gratitude there.

He also spoke about the ‘Shaurya Vijay Yatra’, a motorcycle convoy that set off from the National War Memorial on July 14 and is now rolling towards the Kargil War Memorial in Drass. “One Ride, One Nation, One Salute,” the Prime Minister said, noting that the journey keeps the memory of sacrifice alive, as if each rev of the engine were a tribute.

Switching gears, Modi turned to India’s growing defence self‑reliance. He proudly mentioned the recent commissioning of INS Mahendragiri, a Project 17A stealth frigate that boasts over 75 % indigenous content. “A symbol of the strength of Aatmanirbhar Bharat,” he declared, almost as if showing off a new family car.

The Prime Minister didn’t stop there. He highlighted the Defence Research and Development Organisation’s (DRDO) recent successes – the Pinaka Long‑Range Guided Rocket and the Kusha missile – both test‑flights that, in his words, “carry the hard work of our scientists and engineers.” A quick nod to a recent defence deal in Indonesia for BrahMos and Astra missiles reminded everyone that the world is starting to trust Indian technology.

In wrapping up, Modi urged that whether it’s defence production, exports, or friendly diplomatic ties, India is “consistently moving towards new heights.” The tone was hopeful, a little informal, and very much aimed at making the listener feel part of a larger, shared story.