Kargil Vijay Diwas, Silver Jubliee 2024
Kargil Vijay Diwas Silver Jubilee 2024
Introduction:
The Indian Army has an unparalleled military tradition of determination, bravery, and sacrifice, epitomized by its junior leaders in battle. This tradition was vividly demonstrated in the summer of 1999 when Operation Vijay was launched by the Indian Army to evict Pakistani intruders from the icy heights of Dras, Kargil, and Batalik Sectors of Ladakh. Raw courage, daring, tenacity, and heroic efforts displayed by our soldiers and young officers ensured the triumph of the Indian Army in this operation, also referred to as the Kargil War.
Historical Context:
Post-Independence, Pakistan’s obsession with annexing Kashmir led to several failed military ventures. Ultimately, it resorted to Operation Badr, whereby, while extending the olive branch during the Lahore Summit in February 1999, it surreptitiously occupied the winter-vacated posts in the Kargil District of Ladakh. This was done to cut off National Highway (NH) – 1 with an overall aim to sever Ladakh from Kashmir, thereby forcing the vacation of Siachen Glacier.
The Battle:
The Pakistani intrusions took place along the heights of Mashkoh Valley, Tololing, and Tiger Hill in Dras Sector; the glaciated heights of Kaksar; Batalik and Ganashok valleys astride the Indus River; and in Chorbat La and Turtuk Sectors. The engagements that took place here were classic examples of intense infantry operations in high altitude, supported by intimate and high-volume artillery barrages. The Indian Army, supported by the Indian Air Force, began systematically clearing the heights overlooking NH – 1, including Tololing, Tiger Hill, and Pt 4875. With NH-1 having been secured, the army proceeded to clear the rest of the intrusions along the Line of Control.
Challenges and Achievements:
The phenomenal tactical and logistical challenges posed to the Indian Army were overcome by a combination of innovation, determination, and courage. The intensity of this short war, lasting less than three months, is evident from the participation of 85 major and minor units, with 559 officers, junior commissioned officers, and soldiers making the supreme sacrifice. Four Param Vir Chakras, 10 Mahavir Chakras, and 69 Vir Chakras were awarded. Theatre and Battle Honours were awarded to 29 units, while 17 units received the Chief of Army Staff Unit Citations for gallantry during the operations.
Media Coverage and Public Impact:
With the advent of satellite television, Operation Vijay became India’s first battle that was brought into homes across the country by the media. Soon, Kargil, Batalik, Dras, Muskoh, and Turtuk became household names.
Silver Jubilee Commemoration:
On July 26, 2024, the Silver Jubilee of the Kargil War, we rededicate ourselves to the memory of the brave soldiers who laid down their lives during Operation Vijay, 1999. The Department of Posts is proud to release commemorative postage stamps on the Silver Jubilee of Kargil Vijay Diwas, honoring the bravery and sacrifice of our armed forces. This special issue celebrates 25 years of India’s victory in the Kargil War and pays tribute to our heroes.