Every year on July 26, I reflect deeply on Kargil Vijay Diwas, which marks the conclusion of the Kargil War in 1999. For me, this day is not just a commemoration but a moment to grapple with the complexities of war, honour the bravery of our soldiers and renew my commitment to peace.
War, as I understand it, is a harrowing clash between nations driven by conflicting interests. Whether it’s over resources, territorial disputes or political dominance, war is brutal and often seems senseless. The Kargil War was a stark example of this, where India and Pakistan faced off over strategic heights, revealing the high stakes and severe consequences of such conflicts.
I firmly believe that wars should be stopped, but I recognise that achieving peace isn’t straightforward. It requires earnest dialogue and cooperation. In the context of India and Pakistan, meaningful diplomatic efforts and mutual respect are crucial. I envision a future where both countries engage in genuine dialogue, addressing grievances peacefully rather than through the devastating effects of war. However, without any doubt, at first, Pakistan must commit to stopping all its terrorist activities on Indian soil.
While the Kargil War was a source of immense tragedy, it also had its positives. The courage and dedication of our Indian Armed Forces, who fought bravely to reclaim our territory, filled me with pride. The conflict underscored the importance of national security and the need for a vigilant defence system. These moments of bravery reaffirm my belief in the strength and resilience of our nation.
However, I cannot ignore the negatives of the Kargil War. The loss of lives was profound and heart-wrenching. The conflict strained diplomatic relations and diverted resources away from crucial social infrastructure. This shift in focus often meant that investments in education, healthcare and other essential sectors were overshadowed by defence demands, impacting our overall progress.
