Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday hailed the Indian armed forces for their prowess and sacrifices for the country on the occasion of Kargil Vijay Diwas.
"Remembering our brave soldiers who fought gallantly for the pride of our nation & the security of our citizens during the Kargil War," Modi said in a series of tweets.
"Kargil Vijay Diwas reminds us of India's military prowess & the great sacrifices our armed forces make while steadfastly keeping India safe," he added.
Defence Minister Arun Jaitley and the three Service chiefs -- Army Chief General Bipin Rawat, Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Sunil Lanba, and Air Chief Marshal Birender Singh Dhanoa -- paid glowing tributes to Kargil war heroes at the Amar Jawan Jyoti in New Delhi.
"Salute to the valour of our soldiers on #KargilVijayDiwas," Jaitley tweeted on the occasion.
Kargil Vijay Diwas is observed on this day every year, marking successful conclusion of the war with Pakistan in the Kargil-Drass sector of Jammu and Kashmir in 1999.
The Indian soldiers successfully gained back the high altitude outposts occupied by Pakistani intruders culminating in Operation Vijay on the day.
Over 500 Indian armed forces personnel laid down their lives during the 60-day long war.
