"Army has played an important role in fighting terror and turmoil in Jammu and Kashmir.
"Their supreme sacrifices have helped in restoring peace in the state," the Revenue, Relief and Rehabilitation Minister said.
He was addressing a gathering after unveiling statue of Maj Ajay Singh Jasrotia in Sainik Colony here.
Paying rich tributes to valiant soldiers who lost their lives while protecting the country's sovereignty, the minister said Maj Jasrotia sacrificed his life fighting militancy in Drass during the Kargil conflict in 1999.
He said the army has to constantly prepare itself for diverse challenges keeping in view country's long borders encompassing different geographical and climatic conditions.