Drass, June 22: Commending India’s success during Operation Sindoor, Maharashtra’s Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde on Sunday said this is not the hand of Congress; this is Modi’s hammer shown to Pakistan during Operation Sindoor. Shinde said that India has displayed its true strength during the operation, and Pakistan has received a befitting reply.
Addressing a press conference at Drass, Eknath Shinde lauded the valor of Indian soldiers, particularly those who recaptured Tiger Hill, stating, “The youth conquered Tiger Hill atop Tiger Hill, and we salute their bravery.” He emphasised that events like Shauryathon not only honour the sacrifices of the armed forces but also boost tourism and foster national integration in regions like Ladakh and Jammu & Kashmir.
In a significant gesture, Shinde handed over a Rs 3 crore cheque to Lt Gen Bhalla on behalf of the Government of Maharashtra for the development of the Kargil War Memorial. He underlined that the state is committed to supporting national causes and preserving the legacy of India’s war heroes.
Eknath Shinde was the Chief Guest at the Sarhad Shauryathon 2025, a national marathon held in honour of the martyrs of the Kargil War. The event, jointly organised by the Indian Army, the Sarhad Foundation, Pune, and the local civil administration, saw participation from over 2,500 athletes from across India.
The event witnessed participation from over 2,500 athletes from across India, despite the recent Pahalgam attack — a turnout Shinde hailed as a “commendable display of national resolve.”
Shinde flagged off the race alongside Dr. Mohd Jaffer Akhoon, Chief Executive Councillor of LAHDC Kargil, and Lt Gen Hitesh Bhalla, GOC 14 Corps. The event featured four categories — 21 km, 10 km, 5 km, and 3 km — turning Drass into a high-altitude symbol of unity, courage, and patriotism.
CEC Dr. Akhoon thanked the Maharashtra Government for its contribution and shared that further discussions were held on enhancing tourism infrastructure in the region. “This collaboration and support from Maharashtra will open new avenues for development in Kargil,” he added.
