Yog Raj Sharma
The North New
Shimla, July 26
A solemn district-level ceremony was held in Shimla on Friday to mark Kargil Vijay Diwas, paying tribute to the brave soldiers who laid down their lives in the 1999 conflict. The event, organised at the Bachat Bhawan, was presided over by Deputy Commissioner Anupam Kashyap. Seven former soldiers who took part in the Kargil War were specially honoured during the programme. Subedar Major Diwakar Dutt Sharma, Subedar Major Ram Lal Sharma, Subedar Ved Prakash Sharma, Havildar Ram Lal, and Naiks Praveen and Jai Singh were among those felicitated. The veterans shared their battlefield experiences, recounting moments of courage and hardship during the high-altitude conflict.
“These soldiers defended our motherland in the most difficult terrain and extreme conditions,” said DC Kashyap. “It is a matter of pride for Himachal Pradesh that despite its smaller population, it contributed significantly in terms of martyrs during the war. Their sacrifice and valour remain an inspiration.”
As part of the commemorations, the district administration also announced an initiative to engage these war veterans in school adoption programmes. Under this plan, veterans will share their experiences with students in schools adopted by government officials, aimed at instilling patriotism among the youth. Additionally, they will also be invited to participate in NCORD (Narcotics Coordination) meetings, encouraging dialogue with the younger generation about the dangers of substance abuse.
