India Taught Pakistan a Lesson in Just 22 Minutes: CM Yogi Adityanath
Lucknow (Uttar Pradesh) : Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Friday declared that the Indian Army didn’t take even 22 minutes to teach Pakistan a lesson after the Pulwama terror attack. Speaking at the 25th Kargil Vijay Diwas commemoration at the Kargil Shaheed Smriti Vatika, CM Yogi said the Indian Army’s swift and decisive retaliation dismantled Pakistan’s terror camps and forced the enemy into submission.
He reminded the audience that in Pulwama, 22 innocent passengers were martyred by Pakistan-sponsored terrorism, but the Indian Army’s heroic action showed the world the cost of provoking India. “Seeing our military prowess, Pakistan went running to the US, but not even American support could help it in the face of our soldiers’ courage,” he said. “Eventually, Pakistan had to surrender.”
Political Fragmentation Hurting India’s Unity
CM Yogi warned against the divisive agendas of certain political parties. “Even today, some political factions are trying to disrupt social harmony through caste-based politics and nepotism. Such divisiveness led to our past subjugation,” he said. “Whenever we fall into the trap of these forces, the country suffers. We must rise above such divides and move forward unitedly to build a powerful and prosperous India.”
He stressed that Kargil Vijay Diwas is not just a celebration of military victory, but a reminder of national unity. “Our brave soldiers’ sacrifices should inspire us to envision a strong India—Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat,” he added.
Kargil War Was Imposed by Pakistan, India Responded Decisively
The Chief Minister recalled how the Kargil War was a result of Pakistan’s deceitful intrusion into Indian territory. “The Kargil war wasn’t a conventional battle—it was a challenge fought at chilling altitudes where temperatures drop to -50°C. Despite the harsh terrain, our soldiers displayed unparalleled bravery and pushed back the enemy,” CM Yogi said.
He lauded former PM Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s leadership during the war, noting that even under international pressure, especially from the US, India did not buckle. “Atal ji made it clear that India would not bow down. Pakistan’s president went to the US, but we stood our ground. Eventually, Pakistan had to retreat, and our forces reclaimed every inch of our land.”
He added, “Victory comes to those who don’t flee from challenges. Our soldiers didn’t retreat—that’s why we won Kargil.”
State Government Support for Soldiers and Agniveers
CM Yogi outlined his government’s measures for the welfare of martyrs’ families and veterans. “If a soldier is martyred, the UP government provides ₹50 lakh as compensation and a government job to a family member. Since 2017, we’ve ensured that a memorial or institution in the martyr’s hometown is named in their honour,” he said.
He also highlighted the government’s reservation initiative for Agniveers. “We’ve reserved 20% of posts in the Uttar Pradesh Police Force for Agniveers. This reflects our commitment to integrating our brave young soldiers into public service even after retirement.”
Tributes to Martyrs and Honour to Families
During the ceremony, the Chief Minister and Mayor honoured the families of fallen heroes, including Capt. Manoj Pandey, Lance Naik Kevalanand Dwivedi, Rifleman Sunil Jang, and Major Ritesh Sharma. CM Yogi was welcomed by Mayor Sushma Kharkwal. Schoolgirls presented a cultural performance on the song “Beti Hindustan Ki” in honour of the occasion.
Kargil Vijay Diwas: A Symbol of Courage and National Resolve
Concluding his address, CM Yogi said, “The message of Kargil Vijay Diwas is clear—when united in spirit and purpose, no power can challenge India’s sovereignty. Our brave soldiers have shown that patriotism and unity can overcome any adversity. Now, it’s our turn to honour their legacy by strengthening the foundation of a New India.”
