On the 26th Kargil Vijay Diwas, a solemn and deeply moving ceremony took place at the scenic Lamochan View Point, perched at around 11,500 feet in Drass, Ladakh. The event began with a dignified hoisting of the National Flag by the Flag Foundation of India, in the esteemed presence of Major General Hitesh Bhalla, General Officer Commanding, 14 Corps, as the Chief Guest.
Major General Ashim Kohli (Retd.), Kargil War veteran and CEO of the Flag Foundation of India, reflected on the significance of the event. He called it the most memorable flag ceremony of his career, with iconic war landmarks such as Tiger Hill, Batra Top (Point 4875), and Tololing visible from the viewpoint—a stark reminder of the battle-scarred terrain where Operation Vijay unfolded.
The ceremony included a brief on the Flag Foundation’s initiatives, the importance of adhering to the Flag Code of India, and the presentation of a souvenir to the Chief Guest as a token of respect. Adding cultural depth, the event honoured “Team Stringmo”, a group of talented young female artists from Kargil, led by mentor Sajjad Hussain Bob, who were recognised for fostering patriotism through creative art and painting.
A poignant and emotional segment of the commemoration saw Major General Bhalla pay tribute to the Veer Naris (war widows) and Next of Kin of the Kargil martyrs. The heartfelt recognition underscored the nation’s enduring gratitude to those who have suffered personal loss in the line of duty.
This two-day Kargil Vijay Diwas event, marking India’s victory over Pakistan in the 1999 war, was named “Kargil Vijay Diwas 2026 Celebrations” by organizing agencies. It featured patriotic reflections on historic battles, including narratives of Tiger Hill and Batra Top—locations synonymous with sacrifice and bravery. Lieutenant General Ritesh Bhalla of the Fire and Fury Corps hoisted an 82‑foot-high Tricolour as part of the observance, symbolizing resolve and remembrance.
As the nation paused to recall the bravery of soldiers who endured extreme conditions and high-altitude warfare, the Drass ceremony offered both solemn tribute and inspiration. It reaffirmed that the sacrifices made during Operation Vijay remain etched in the nation’s collective memory and serve as an enduring flame of patriotism for generations.
Key Highlights:
- Ceremony at an elevation of ~11,500 ft in Drass with panoramic views of iconic war zones.
- Flag hoisting led by the Flag Foundation of India in the presence of senior military leadership.
- Reflections by a Kargil veteran emphasizing the emotional and historical significance of the setting.
- Artistic tributes by Kargil youth through Team Stringmo, celebrating patriotism.
- Honours and tributes to Veer Naris and families of martyrs.
This observance not only honored the heroes of the past but also celebrated the resilience of communities and the spirit of remembrance that continues to unite the nation.
Jai Hind!
