DW Bureau  / CHANDIGARH: Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Sunday paid heartfelt tributes to the brave soldiers who made the supreme sacrifice while defending the nation's sovereignty, asserting that their unmatched valour, courage and selfless service would continue to inspire generations. The Chief Minister laid a wreath at the War Memorial, paid floral tributes to the Kargil War heroes, interacted with the families of soldiers who made the supreme sacrifice and ex-servicemen, distributed five two-wheelers to differently abled ex-servicemen, and encouraged NCC (National Cadet Corps) cadets as well as cadets of the Maharaja Ranjit Singh Armed Forces Preparatory Institute and Mai Bhago Armed Forces Preparatory Institute, Mohali, to join the armed forces.

The Chief Minister reaffirmed the Punjab Government's unwavering commitment to the welfare of the families of soldiers who made the supreme sacrifice while protecting the nation and ex-servicemen.

Sharing a snippet from this auspicious occasion, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann stated on X: "On the occasion of the 27th Kargil Vijay Diwas today, I pay my heartfelt tributes to the 527 brave soldiers who made the supreme sacrifice to safeguard the unity, integrity, and honour of our nation. Among them were 65 courageous sons of Punjab, whose sacrifice fills every Punjabi with immense pride.

"Soldiers who made the supreme sacrifice do not belong to just one family; they are the nation's greatest treasure. The freedom and security we enjoy today are the result of the unparalleled sacrifices made by our brave soldiers. Remembering their sacrifice and honouring their legacy is the truest tribute we can pay to them. Jai Hind," the post concluded.

Addressing the gathering, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, "The supreme sacrifice made by our brave soldiers will continue to inspire generations of youth to serve the nation with patriotism, dedication and selflessness. During the Kargil War, 527 soldiers laid down their lives in the service of the nation, including more than 65 brave sons of Punjab. Their courage and sacrifice will always remain a source of pride and inspiration for every Indian."

The Chief Minister pointed out, "Punjab's history is written with countless sacrifices, and nations that honour their history continue to thrive. Our martyrs belong not merely to their families but to the entire nation. Their sacrifice can never be forgotten and it is our collective responsibility to preserve and honour their glorious legacy."

Paying homage to the brave soldiers, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann stated, "Whether in the icy heights of Kargil or the scorching deserts of Jaisalmer, our brave soldiers remain steadfast in protecting the unity, integrity and sovereignty of the nation. Recalling the 1999 Kargil War fills every Indian with pride because the entire country stood united with an extraordinary spirit of patriotism during that defining moment."

The Chief Minister said, "Kargil Vijay Diwas symbolises the extraordinary courage, heroism and sacrifice displayed by India's armed forces under the most challenging circumstances. Every Indian is proud of the unparalleled bravery shown by our soldiers during the conflict. Their dedication to the nation can never be repaid."

Highlighting the Punjab Government's commitment towards the welfare of soldiers and their families, Bhagwant Singh Mann said, "As a mark of respect for the supreme sacrifice of our soldiers, the Punjab Government provides financial assistance of ₹1 crore to the family of every soldier who attains martyrdom in the line of duty. This is our humble effort to recognise the invaluable service rendered by the brave men and women of our armed forces."

Referring to his interaction with NCC cadets and cadets of the Maharaja Ranjit Singh Armed Forces Preparatory Institute and Mai Bhago Armed Forces Preparatory Institute, Mohali, the Chief Minister said, "Serving the nation through the armed forces is among the noblest callings. I urge our young cadets to dedicate themselves to this great cause. The Punjab Government will extend every possible support and cooperation to help them realise their dreams of serving the nation. They can become role models for future generations and strengthen the spirit of patriotism and nationalism among our youth."

Prominent among those present on the occasion were Defence Services Welfare Minister Mohinder Bhagat and senior officers of the armed forces.

CM Bhagwant Singh Mann Pays Tribute to Kargil Heroes

Paying solemn tributes to the brave soldiers who sacrificed their lives while protecting the nation, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann laid a wreath at the War Memorial as the Last Post was sounded in their honour, followed by a two-minute silence. The Chief Minister also interacted with ex-servicemen and the families of soldiers who made the supreme sacrifice, acknowledging their invaluable service and unwavering commitment to the nation. He later took the salute during an impressive Guard of Honour presented by the PAP Band under the leadership of PAP Group Commander DSP Davinder Singh Saini.