Kargil Vijay Diwas 2024, Story, History and Heroes of Kargil War

Kargil Vijay Diwas is celebrated every year on 26 July to pay tribute to the bravery of Indian Soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice for the country during the  Kargil War 1999.  This event marks the conclusion of the Kargil War between India and Pakistan, which began in May 1999. During this conflict, Indian forces successfully reclaimed strategic positions in the Kargil sector of Jammu and Kashmir that had been infiltrated by Pakistani soldiers and terrorists.

The Story Behind the Kargil War

After the Indo-Pak War of 1971, there have been many military conflicts. Both countries conducted nuclear tests in 1998 which further escalated tensions. To calm the situation in February 1999, the Lahore Declaration was signed by both countries, promising to provide a peaceful and bilateral solution to the Kashmir conflict. But Pakistan Armed Forces started sending its soldiers and paramilitary forces across the Line of Control (LoC) into the territory on the Indian Side and the infiltration was code named ‘Operation Badr’. The main objective is to break the link between Kashmir and Ladakh and to withdraw the Indian Army from the Siachen Glacier. At the same time, Pakistan believed that creating any kind of tension in this area would help in making the Kashmir issue an international issue, helping it to secure a speedy resolution.

History of Kargil Vijay Diwas

The Kargil War in 1999 happened because India and Pakistan have long argued over who controls Kashmir. Both countries claimed the area since they split in 1947. This disagreement led to wars and small fights between their armies over the years. The conflict got worse when both countries tested nuclear weapons in 1998, making the situation even more dangerous.

Despite efforts to calm tensions, like the Lahore Declaration in early 1999, distrust between India and Pakistan remained. Some in Pakistan’s military decided to secretly send soldiers and fighters into Kargil, an area in Kashmir controlled by India. They hoped to cut off India’s main road to a key area called Siachen Glacier and use this move to force India into settling the Kashmir issue on their terms.

However, Pakistan’s plan had big flaws. However, riddled with flaws, Pakistan’s plan misjudged India’s reaction and international scrutiny. When India found out about the infiltration in May 1999, they fought back hard to take back their territory. The fight was tough, and many soldiers from both sides were killed or injured.

In the end, India succeeded in pushing Pakistani forces out of the Kargil area. This conflict showed how serious the Kashmir dispute is and how risky it can be when tensions between India and Pakistan rise. It also highlighted the need for both countries to find peaceful ways to solve their differences, especially in such a sensitive and important region.

Heroes of the Kargil War

The Kargil Vijay Diwas is a day to uplift the unconditional love and sacrifices of our Soldiers. These brave soldiers exhibited exceptional courage and dedication, often putting their lives on the line under extreme conditions to protect our nation. Their extraordinary actions of valour and resilience make them true heroes. While the entire Indian Army significantly contributed to the Kargil War victory, some individuals stood out for their remarkable actions. Here are a few of the most celebrated heroes of the Kargil War:

1. Captain Vikram Batra (13 JAK Rifles):

Captain Vikram Batra led his team to recapture Point 4875 despite being injured. His famous declaration, “Yeh dil maange more!” became iconic. His act of valour was recognized with the Param Vir Chakra, the nation’s highest honour, awarded posthumously.

2. Lieutenant Manoj Kumar Pandey (1/11 Gorkha Rifles): 

Manoj Kumar Pandey played a key role in the Khalubar area, successfully clearing enemy positions. The Param Vir Chakra, a symbol of valour, was bestowed upon him posthumously in recognition of his courageous actions and inspiring leadership.

3. Grenadier Yogendra Singh Yadav (18 Grenadiers): 

At just 19, Yadav fought valiantly at Tiger Hill. Severely injured, he continued to fight, capturing key enemy bunkers. His courage was recognized with the Param Vir Chakra.

4. Rifleman Sanjay Kumar (13 JAK Rifles): 

Sanjay Kumar displayed immense bravery at Point 4875, fighting on despite injuries. His actions were pivotal in capturing enemy positions, earning him the Param Vir Chakra.

5. Major Rajesh Adhikari (18 Grenadiers): 

 Major Adhikari led a mission to capture a bunker at Tololing. Despite sustaining grievous wounds, he fought on with unwavering determination until his final moments.  His exceptional courage was later recognised with the Maha Vir Chakra.

6. Major Saurabh Kalia (4 Jat): 

Major Saurabh Kalia was captured and tortured by Pakistani forces. His sacrifice is a poignant reminder of the war’s harsh realities and his unwavering bravery.

These heroes demonstrated extraordinary courage and dedication, embodying the spirit of national pride and valor during the Kargil War. Their actions were not just about winning battles but about upholding the honour and sovereignty of India. Their sacrifices ensured the safety of countless lives and the security of the nation. Each one faced immense challenges and dangers, yet they remained steadfast in their mission. Their stories of bravery serve as an inspiration for future generations, reminding us of the true meaning of patriotism and the cost of freedom.

Significance of the Day

It was on this day 21 years ago that the Indian Army recaptured all the Indian posts in Kargil that had been occupied by Pakistan’s army. Since then, 26 July has been observed annually to commemorate the sacrifices made by soldiers in this war.

Captain Vikram Batra, Lt Manoj Kumar Pandey, Major Rajesh Singh Adhikari, Major Vivek Gupta and others were among the 527 brave soldiers who gave their lives for the country.

Several events and parades are organized on this day in honor of these soldiers. The main ceremony is at the Kargil War Memorial in Drass.

Important Takeaways of Kargil Vijay Diwas 2024

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be in Ladakh on 26 July to attend the 25th anniversary of the Kargil Vijay Diwas, The grand celebrations to mark the ‘Rajat Jayanti’ of India’s victory over Pakistan in the 1999 war are scheduled to be conducted at Drass in Kargil district from 24 July to 26.

• Minister of Defence of India: Rajnath Singh
• Chief of Defence Staff of the Indian Armed Forces: Anil Chauhan
• The motto of the Indian Army is “Service Before Self”
• Chief of the Army Staff:  General Manoj Pande

Check Out Other Important Days in July 2024: Click Here