Defence Minister Rajnath Singh marked the 27th Kargil Vijay Diwas by paying tribute to the soldiers who sacrificed their lives during the 1999 Kargil War and reaffirming India's firm position on national security and cross-border terrorism.

Speaking at the Kargil War Memorial in Drass, Ladakh, Singh warned that any future misadventure by Pakistan would invite a response that would go 'beyond their imagination.

' He stated that India would not hold talks with Pakistan except on the issue of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), which he described as an integral part of India under illegal occupation.

Singh also alleged that terrorism has become part of Pakistan's state policy, claiming that the country's military and terrorist organisations work in close coordination.Referring to Operation Sindoor, he said India no longer differentiates between terrorists and governments that support them.

Contrasting the priorities of the two nations, the Defence Minister said India is focused on innovation, technology, infrastructure and development, while Pakistan continues to encourage infiltration and terrorism.

In a message posted on X, Singh honoured the bravery and sacrifice of the soldiers who fought in Kargil, saying the nation would remain forever grateful to them and that their courage would continue to inspire future generations.

Addressing Army personnel during a Shaurya Bhoj in Drass, he further said that although decades have passed since the Kargil conflict, the threat of proxy war and cross-border infiltration remains.He expressed confidence that the Indian Army is fully prepared to meet any challenge.

Kargil Vijay Diwas is observed every year on 26 July to commemorate India's victory in Operation Vijay and honour the 527 soldiers who laid down their lives in the conflict.