Soldier guard borders to allow us to sleep at night, President

Srinagar, July 23 (UNI) Lauding the security forces for their services during war and peace times, President A P J Abdul Kalam said it is because of their vigil on our borders that we sleep well at night.

In his message to the Ati vishnu Maha Yagna samiti, Jammu, the President expressed happiness for organising Sarva Dharma Pooja for the peace of the departed soul of Kargil martyrs.

'' Our armed forces have done the nation proud during war or in peace-keeping missions abroad,'' Dr Kalam said.

He said this is an occasion to remember with reverence those brave souls who laid down their lives for the defence of our motherland.

'' It is vigil of others like them on our borders that allows us to sleep well at night,'' the message said.

''On this occasion I extend my respects to all officers, soldiers, civilians, ex-servicemen and their families. I especially pay my sincere tribute and salute to all those martyrs who made the supreme sacrifice and also to next of their kin.'' Hundreds of religious scholars from different parts of the country besides family members of Kargil martyrs took part in the Sarva Dharma Prarthana at Drass to mark the 7th anniversary of Vijay Diwas.

The Kargil conflict took place after Pakistani intruders occupied all heights in Kargil and Drass sectors in March 1999. However, it took about five months for the India army, supported by Indian Airforce, to push back the intruders.

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