New Delhi, Jan. 28 -- Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge on Wednesday paid tribute to Field Marshal K M Cariappa on the occasion of his birth anniversary, calling him a "towering national figure" whose life reflected "courage, determination and valour."

In an 'X' post, Kharge lauded his efforts in leading the Indian forces during the 1947 Indo-Pak war and later becoming the first Indian to serve as Commander-in-Chief of the Indian Army in 1949.

"On the birth anniversary of Field Marshal K M Cariappa, our respectful salutations to a towering national figure whose life reflected courage, determination and valour. Over a distinguished military career of three decades, he led Indian forces during the 1947 Indo-Pakistan War and became the...