Drass, July 25 -- Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Saturday paid tribute to the soldiers who fought in the 1999 Kargil War, saying the nation can hold its head high because of their courage and sacrifice.

The Defence Minister paid homage to the soldiers who laid down their lives during the Kargil War, as he attended the 'Shaurya Sandhya' programme organised at the Kargil War Memorial on the eve of the 27th Kargil Vijay Diwas.

Singh also met and honoured the families of the soldiers who made the supreme sacrifice during the conflict.

Addressing Army personnel at Shaurya Bhoj in Drass, Singh said the courage displayed by the armed forces in Kargil continues to inspire every Indian.

"Today, we are all able to breathe with our heads held...