Watch: IAF shares rare Kargil war photos with untold stories from 1999, a tribute you can’t miss

The Indian Air Force (IAF) on Saturday paid a heartfelt tribute to the brave soldiers of the 1999 Kargil War, marking the 26th Kargil Vijay Diwas. The day honours the courage, sacrifice and unwavering spirit of the armed forces who fought to defend India.

To commemorate the occasion, the IAF shared an emotional video over two minutes long on social media. It highlighted the bravery of its personnel and included rare photographs from the war, titled "The War Diary in Photographs."

On platform X (formerly Twitter), the IAF wrote: "The Indian Air Force pays heartfelt tribute to the valiant Warriors of the Kargil War. Their courage, sacrifice, and unwavering resolve continue to inspire a nation united in gratitude."

Leaders Pay Respect

Prime Minister Narendra Modi also paid his respects and said the sacrifices made by the soldiers would inspire generations.

“Heartfelt greetings to the countrymen on Kargil Vijay Diwas. This occasion reminds us of the unmatched bravery of those brave sons of Mother India who gave their lives to protect the nation’s honour,” he posted.

President Droupadi Murmu too expressed her admiration: “On the occasion of Kargil Vijay Diwas, I pay my heartfelt tribute to the brave soldiers who sacrificed their lives for the motherland. Their dedication and supreme sacrifice will forever inspire the citizens of our country.”

Families Honour Fallen Soldiers

On Friday, family members of soldiers who died in the Kargil War gathered at Lamochen Viewpoint in Drass to remember their loved ones. The event was filled with emotion as people shared memories and paid tribute to the heroes.

Rajesh, the brother of a soldier who died at Tiger Hill, shared a touching story: “We wrote a letter to my brother during the war, and he replied saying he was not in danger. But after his death, we found his diary, which he had given to a friend. In it, he wrote that he didn’t think he’d return from the mission.”

Surekha Shinde, who lost her brother in the war, said:
“He had served in the army for five years before the war. I feel proud to be here today and thank the army for inviting us.”

What Is Kargil Vijay Diwas?

Kargil Vijay Diwas is observed every year on 26 July. It marks India’s victory in the 1999 Kargil War when Indian soldiers successfully reclaimed mountain peaks in the Kargil-Siachen region that had been secretly captured by Pakistani troops.

The war lasted more than 60 days and ended with Operation Vijay, a major military campaign. India showed great political and military restraint by keeping the war limited to the region.

IAF’s Role in the Kargil War

The Indian Air Force played a crucial role under Operation Safed Sagar. Launched on 26 May 1999, it was the first time since 1971 that India used air power in Kashmir. The IAF carried out high-altitude bombing missions without crossing international borders, showing how effective air power could be in a limited conflict.

According to the IAF, the operation proved that the use of air forces could change the course of a war while staying within strategic limits.

Inputs from ANI