Kargil Vijay Diwas, Silver Jubliee 2024

The Indian Army carries an unmatched legacy of courage, sacrifice, and determination, upheld by its young leaders and soldiers in every battle. This spirit was most powerfully demonstrated in the summer of 1999, when Operation Vijay—better known as the Kargil War—was launched to evict Pakistani intruders from the icy heights of Dras, Kargil, and Batalik sectors in Ladakh.

Despite the treacherous terrain and extreme conditions, Indian soldiers displayed raw courage, tenacity, and heroic resolve, leading to a historic victory that reaffirmed India’s sovereignty.

Pakistan’s Intrusion and Operation Vijay

Following years of unsuccessful attempts to annex Kashmir, Pakistan resorted to Operation Badr in early 1999. While extending an olive branch during the Lahore Summit in February 1999, Pakistan surreptitiously occupied winter-vacated Indian posts in Kargil District. The plan aimed to cut off National Highway 1 (NH-1), sever Ladakh from Kashmir, and force India’s withdrawal from the Siachen Glacier.

Pakistani intrusions spread across the Mashkoh Valley, Tololing, and Tiger Hill in Dras Sector, the glaciated heights of Kaksar, the valleys of Batalik and Ganashok astride the Indus River, and areas near Chorbat La and Turtuk. What followed were classic examples of high-altitude infantry battles, supported by heavy artillery barrages.

The Battle for Heights

With the support of the Indian Air Force, the Indian Army launched systematic operations to reclaim strategic positions. The capture of Tololing, Tiger Hill, and Point 4875 was crucial in securing NH-1, after which remaining intrusions along the Line of Control (LoC) were cleared.

The war tested India with tactical and logistical challenges, but the Army responded with unmatched innovation, determination, and courage.

Sacrifices and Honors

The intensity of this three-month war can be measured by the participation of 85 major and minor units, with 559 Officers, Junior Commissioned Officers, and Soldiers making the supreme sacrifice. Their valor was recognized with:

• 4 Param Vir Chakras
• 10 Maha Vir Chakras
• 69 Vir Chakras
• 29 Theatre and Battle Honours
• 17 Chief of Army Staff Unit Citations

A War in Every Home

With the advent of satellite television, the Kargil War became India’s first televised battle, bringing the names Kargil, Batalik, Dras, Muskoh, and Turtuk into every household and forging an everlasting connection with the nation’s collective memory.

Commemorative Postage Stamps

On 26 July 2024, marking the Silver Jubilee of Kargil Vijay Diwas, the Department of Posts proudly issues commemorative postage stamps honoring the bravery and sacrifice of India’s armed forces.

This special issue celebrates 25 years of India’s victory in the Kargil War and stands as a lasting tribute to the heroes who defended the nation with unmatched valor.