KARGIL: Kargil Sunday commemorated the 77th year of the Indian Army’s historic victory of 1948, celebrated as Youm-e-Fateh, with great patriotic zeal at Khree Sultan Cho Sports Stadium, Biamathang.
The day marks the liberation of Kargil from Pakistani raiders during Operation Bison, when the valiant soldiers of 77 Para Brigade restored the crucial link between Kashmir and Ladakh on 23rd November 1948.
The Chairman and Chief Executive Councillor, LAHDC Kargil, Dr. Mohd Jaffer Akhoon, attended the event as the Chief Guest, alongside Deputy Commissioner Kargil, Rakesh Kumar Senior Superintendent of Police Kargil, Nitin Yadav, Brigadier Joshi of the 121 Infantry Brigade, and senior civil and military officials.
The commemoration began with a solemn wreath-laying ceremony at the Kargil Helipad War Memorial, where the CEC paid homage to the brave soldiers who made the supreme sacrifice in the 1948 operations.
Later, at the stadium, the celebrations witnessed enthusiastic participation from veterans, students, youth, and local residents.
The programme featured a ceremonial march past by Ladakh Police, NCC cadets, and contingents from various schools, during which the CEC took the salute.
Students presented colourful cultural performances, including a vibrant Purgi dance, a national integration dance, and a soulful Shina song accompanied by the Ladakh Scouts Regimental Centre Band, reflecting the cultural diversity and spirit of unity in the region.
A medical and dental camp was organised as part of the event, providing free health check-ups and medicines to attendees. The Indian Army also displayed modern weapons and equipment, offering the public an insight into the nation’s advancing military capabilities.
During the ceremony, Dr. Mohd Jaffer Akhoon felicitated Veer Naris and widows, honouring their resilience and the sacrifices of their families.
Prizes were also distributed to the winners of the Girls Badminton Championship and the Inter-School Debate Competition organised earlier by the Kargil Sentinels.
Addressing the gathering, the CEC Dr Mohd Jaffer congratulated the people of Kargil on this historic day, describing it as a proud moment for all. He said that Youm-e-Fateh is an occasion to remember the courageous heroes who laid down their lives for a safer and stronger future.
He added that today, Ladakh stands secure because of their sacrifices. The CEC appealed to the Indian Army and the people of Kargil to continue working together to protect the land, strengthen unity, and foster progress. He urged everyone to pledge to uphold peace, love, and harmony in the nation.
The 77th Youm-e-Fateh celebration stood as a powerful tribute to Kargil’s enduring spirit, honouring its storied past while reaffirming the collective commitment to peace, security, and continued development of the region.
