Pre-Kargil Vijay Diwas programmes held

An officer presenting memento to a dignitary.
An officer presenting memento to a dignitary.

Excelsior Correspondent

KARGIL/ LEH, June 22: In the run-up to Kargil Vijay Diwas, a special expedition to the iconic Sonam Post and a Veer Gatha event were held in Hanu Valley to commemorate the bravery of Indian soldiers during the Kargil War.
The expedition was led by Colonel Sonam Wangchuk, MVC (Retd), who, as a Major in 1999, had commanded a column of the Indus Wing, Ladakh Scouts in the Chorbatla Sector during Operation Vijay. Alongside 30 soldiers, he displayed exceptional courage in evicting intruders from the strategic Sonam Heights. The post, now named after him, hosted a flag hoisting and wreath-laying ceremony to honour the martyrs.
The event saw participation from four JCOs of Ladakh Scouts and local residents, highlighting the spirit of sacrifice and service. Following the expedition, a Veer Gatha programme was organized to inspire youth, featuring interactions between war veterans, serving soldiers, school children, and villagers.
Veterans shared their first-hand experiences of battle, offering lessons in patriotism and resilience. The event concluded with a strong sense of national pride, aiming to instill courage and responsibility among the younger generation to carry forward the legacy of the Kargil heroes.