India, July 26 -- Prime MinisterNarendra Modi on Sunday paid tributes to the soldiers who laid down their lives for the country during the 1999 Kargil War, saying Kargil Vijay Diwas reminds everyone of the "extraordinary courage" displayed by the armed forces in the face of extreme challenges.

Addressing the 136th episode of his monthly radio programme 'Mann Ki Baat', PM Modi said that India continues to strengthen its defence capabilities and is emerging as a trusted global defence partner.

"Today is Kargil Vijay Diwas. This day fills us with pride, and it reminds us of the extraordinary courage of our brave soldiers."

"The towering peaks of Kargil, the harsh weather, the enemy's challenge-every circumstance stood before our soldiers...