<p>The Kargil Vijay Diwas is celebrated every year in India on July 26 to honor the bravery of Indian soldiers who recaptured the mountain peaks in Kargil that were taken over by Pakistani forces in 1999. The Pakistani soldiers had crossed the Line of Control (LoC) and disguised as militants, leading to a serious conflict between the two nuclear-armed nations (India and Pakistan). In retaliation, India launched a full-scale military operation to drive them out. The war took place at very high altitudes and both sides suffered heavy losses. In the end, India successfully regained all the captured territory. The war involved different types of warfare, including mountain battles, traditional ground fighting and air strikes.</p><h2><strong>Some of the important weapons and equipment used during the Kargil War are:</strong></h2><ul><li><strong>Small Arms (rifles):</strong> Small arms are the basic weapons like rifles and machine guns which were used by soldiers in close fights. Examples include, SAF Carbine and AK-47.</li><li><strong>Artillery: </strong>Big guns such as Bofors FH-77B Howitzer and mortars were used to hit enemy targets from a distance.&nbsp;</li><li><strong>Tanks:</strong> These are the armoured vehicles, which provide heavy fire support during attacks. Example - T-72 Tanks</li><li><strong>Helicopters: </strong>These helicopters are used for the movement of troops, helped in spying and to provide support to troops on ground from the air.</li><li><strong>Fighter Jets:</strong> Both India and Pakistan used fighter jets in the sky, including MiG-21, MiG-29, Mirage 2000 (India) and F-16 (Pakistan).</li><li><strong>UAVs (Drones):</strong> These drones are mainly used for watching enemy movements and gathering intelligence.</li><li><strong>Anti-Aircraft Guns:</strong> These guns are mainly used to shoot down enemy planes.</li></ul><h2><strong>Key weapons used by India during Kargil War</strong></h2><ul><li>&nbsp;<strong>Bofors FH-77B Howitzer</strong><br>A 155 mm gun made in Sweden, popularly known in India as the Bofors gun. It was used for long-range shelling of enemy posts in the mountains.</li><li><strong>&nbsp;MiG-27 (Bahadur) and MiG-29</strong><br>A Soviet-designed fighter jets, used mainly for ground attacks. These jets are also used for air combat and guarding Indian skies.</li><li><strong>Mirage 2000H</strong><br>A French-built fighter jet used by the Indian Air Force during the Kargil War. These jets played a key role in bombing enemy bunkers in the Kargil sector with precision.</li><li><strong>Laser-Guided Bombs (LGBs)</strong><br>Laser-Guided Bombs are the special bombs guided by laser to accurately hit targets. These helped to destroy enemy positions with great precision during the war.</li><li><strong>Grenade Launchers</strong><br>These launchers were used by Indian soldiers to launch grenades at the enemy bunkers from a distance.</li><li>&nbsp;<strong>INSAS, SAF Carbine and AK-47</strong></li></ul><p><strong>INSAS: </strong>A set of rifles and light machine guns made in India for infantry use.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>SAF Carbine:</strong> A small and lightweight gun known for its accurate accuracy.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>AK-47: </strong>A powerful automatic rifle originally made in the Soviet Union was also used during the war.</p><h2><strong>26 years of courage and sacrifice</strong></h2><p>This year marks the 26th anniversary of Kargil Vijay Diwas. The day is celebrated to remember the bravery, sacrifice and dedication of Indian soldiers who fought to protect the country’s borders.&nbsp;</p>

This year (2025) marks the 26th anniversary of Kargil Vijay Diwas. The day is observed to honour the courage, sacrifice and commitment of Indian soldiers who defended the nation during the Kargil conflict.

The Kargil Vijay Diwas is celebrated every year in India on July 26 to honor the bravery of Indian soldiers who recaptured the mountain peaks in Kargil that were taken over by Pakistani forces in 1999. The Pakistani soldiers had crossed the Line of Control (LoC) and disguised as militants, leading to a serious conflict between the two nuclear-armed nations (India and Pakistan). In retaliation, India launched a full-scale military operation to drive them out. The war took place at very high altitudes and both sides suffered heavy losses. In the end, India successfully regained all the captured territory. The war involved different types of warfare, including mountain battles, traditional ground fighting and air strikes. Some of the important weapons and equipment used during the Kargil War are: Small Arms (rifles): Small arms are the basic weapons like rifles and machine guns which were used by soldiers in close fights. Examples include, SAF Carbine and AK-47. Artillery: Big guns such as Bofors FH-77B Howitzer and mortars were used to hit enemy targets from a distance. Tanks: These are the armoured vehicles, which provide heavy fire support during attacks. Example - T-72 Tanks Helicopters: These helicopters are used for the movement of troops, helped in spying and to provide support to troops on ground from the air. Fighter Jets: Both India and Pakistan used fighter jets in the sky, including MiG-21, MiG-29, Mirage 2000 (India) and F-16 (Pakistan). UAVs (Drones): These drones are mainly used for watching enemy movements and gathering intelligence. Anti-Aircraft Guns: These guns are mainly used to shoot down enemy planes. Key weapons used by India during Kargil War Bofors FH-77B Howitzer A 155 mm gun made in Sweden, popularly known in India as the Bofors gun. It was used for long-range shelling of enemy posts in the mountains. MiG-27 (Bahadur) and MiG-29 A Soviet-designed fighter jets, used mainly for ground attacks. These jets are also used for air combat and guarding Indian skies. Mirage 2000H A French-built fighter jet used by the Indian Air Force during the Kargil War. These jets played a key role in bombing enemy bunkers in the Kargil sector with precision. Laser-Guided Bombs (LGBs) Laser-Guided Bombs are the special bombs guided by laser to accurately hit targets. These helped to destroy enemy positions with great precision during the war. Grenade Launchers These launchers were used by Indian soldiers to launch grenades at the enemy bunkers from a distance. INSAS, SAF Carbine and AK-47 INSAS: A set of rifles and light machine guns made in India for infantry use. SAF Carbine: A small and lightweight gun known for its accurate accuracy. AK-47: A powerful automatic rifle originally made in the Soviet Union was also used during the war. 26 years of courage and sacrifice This year marks the 26th anniversary of Kargil Vijay Diwas. The day is celebrated to remember the bravery, sacrifice and dedication of Indian soldiers who fought to protect the country’s borders.

<p>This year (2025) marks the 26th anniversary of Kargil Vijay Diwas. The day is observed to honour the courage, sacrifice and commitment of Indian soldiers who defended the nation during the Kargil conflict.</p>

Kargil Vijay Diwas 2025: List of Indian Army weapons used in 1999 conflict

<p><br>On July 26, 1999, the Kargil War concluded with India declaring victory over Pakistan. To honour the Indian armed forces and remember the soldiers who lost their lives in the battle, this day is observed every year as Kargil Vijay Diwas. Marking the day, here we have brought the story of a well-known Indian actor who has ruled the big screen with his prolific acting but has stepped away from his passion to serve the nation. In several of his films, he has portrayed the role of a patriot and has been praised for his performances in nationalistic-themed movies.</p><p>Any guesses who this actor is? It is none other than veteran actor Nana Patekar.</p><h2>Nana Patekar fought in the Kargil war</h2><p>The three-time National Award-winning actor has not only contributed significantly to Indian and Marathi cinema but also served his country on the front lines during the 1999 Kargil War.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Nana underwent military training with the Maratha Light Infantry for three years in the early 1990s, after which he wrote and directed his film Prahaar. His time in the military not only helped shape his film but also prepared him for real service at the front lines. When the Kargil war started and the entire country united during the crisis, Patekar decided to join the soldiers on the front lines and support the nation. Initially, his request was denied by a military officer who informed him that only the Defence Minister could authorise it.</p><p>To join the troops, he went to talk to then-Defence Minister George Fernandes and requested him to allow the actor to serve in the army. During his interaction with Amitabh Bachchan on the reality show Kaun Banega Crorepati season 16, Nana recalled how he joined the army.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"I knew our Defence Minister George Fernandes ji, so I called him,'' Nana recalled, as per TOI.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The actor added further,''Even he said it is impossible. I told him that even though the training for the commission is six months, I trained for three years. He was surprised and asked me about it. After learning of my experience with the Maratha Light Infantry, he asked me,''When do you want to go?''</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>During his time with the Indian troops, he assisted soldiers and worked at the hospital, and also worked with the Quick Response Team and reportedly served in critical zones such as Baramulla, Sopore, Kupwara, Dras and other places.</p>

<p>During his time there, the actor shed a lot of weight. ''I was 76 Kg when I reached Srinagar. By the time I came back, I was 56 kg,'' he had shared earlier.</p>

<p>After completing a three-year training period with the military, the actor was conferred the honorary rank of Captain in the Indian Territorial Army in 1990</p>

Nana Patekar, the three-time National Award-winning actor, has dominated the screen for decades with his remarkable performances. However, not many people are aware of his dedication to his country. During the Kargil War, he decided to join the army. Read the full story here. 

On July 26, 1999, the Kargil War concluded with India declaring victory over Pakistan. To honour the Indian armed forces and remember the soldiers who lost their lives in the battle, this day is observed every year as Kargil Vijay Diwas. Marking the day, here we have brought the story of a well-known Indian actor who has ruled the big screen with his prolific acting but has stepped away from his passion to serve the nation. In several of his films, he has portrayed the role of a patriot and has been praised for his performances in nationalistic-themed movies. Any guesses who this actor is? It is none other than veteran actor Nana Patekar. Nana Patekar fought in the Kargil war The three-time National Award-winning actor has not only contributed significantly to Indian and Marathi cinema but also served his country on the front lines during the 1999 Kargil War. Nana underwent military training with the Maratha Light Infantry for three years in the early 1990s, after which he wrote and directed his film Prahaar. His time in the military not only helped shape his film but also prepared him for real service at the front lines. When the Kargil war started and the entire country united during the crisis, Patekar decided to join the soldiers on the front lines and support the nation. Initially, his request was denied by a military officer who informed him that only the Defence Minister could authorise it. To join the troops, he went to talk to then-Defence Minister George Fernandes and requested him to allow the actor to serve in the army. During his interaction with Amitabh Bachchan on the reality show Kaun Banega Crorepati season 16, Nana recalled how he joined the army. "I knew our Defence Minister George Fernandes ji, so I called him,'' Nana recalled, as per TOI. The actor added further,''Even he said it is impossible. I told him that even though the training for the commission is six months, I trained for three years. He was surprised and asked me about it. After learning of my experience with the Maratha Light Infantry, he asked me,''When do you want to go?'' During his time with the Indian troops, he assisted soldiers and worked at the hospital, and also worked with the Quick Response Team and reportedly served in critical zones such as Baramulla, Sopore, Kupwara, Dras and other places.

<p>Nana Patekar, the three-time National Award-winning actor, has dominated the screen for decades with his remarkable performances. However, not many people are aware of his dedication to his country. During the Kargil War, he decided to join the army. Read the full story here.&nbsp;</p>

Did you know THIS Bollywood actor joined Indian Army during 1999 Kargil War?

<p><br>Today, on July 26, India is celebrating the 26th anniversary of the Kargil War. Each year, this day is observed to commemorate India's victory over Pakistan during the nearly three-month-long war, known as Operation Vijay. The day honours the courageous Indian armed forces and remembers the 527 soldiers who tragically lost their lives while fighting for their nation.</p><p>Over the years, the remarkable stories of the war and its soldiers have been depicted on screen. Sometimes, the movies focus on the life story of an individual major, while at other times, they tell the heartwrenching emotions of the martyred soldiers' families.</p>

<p>On this day, we have curated a list of a few movies that you can watch online.</p>

<h3>Shershaah &nbsp;(2001)</h3><p>&nbsp;</p><p>This 2021 movie tells the courageous story of Captain Vikram Batra, an Indian soldier and Param Vir Chakra awardee. His extraordinary bravery during the Kargil War was pivotal on the battlefield. Starring Sidharth Malhotra as Vikram Batra, the film is an inspiring and poignant portrayal of the hero and his remarkable feats.</p><h3>Gunjan Saxena: The Kargil Girl (2020)</h3><p>Directed by Sharan Sharma, the film is a moving and inspiring tale of a girl who dreamed. And the father, who supported her in all her hurdles. It chronicles the real-life experiences of Gunjan, aka the Kargil Girl, highlighting the gender-based discrimination she faced during her training. The film follows her journey from scratch to the time when she made history as India's first female combat pilot in the Kargil War.</p><h2>Lakshya' (2004)</h2><p>Farhan Akhtar proved his talent with his directorial debut, which tells the coming-of-age story of a lazy boy who joins the Indian Army. Starring Hrithik Roshan, the film revolves around Karan Shergill, a character known for his laziness and unreliability. However, the story explores how his life changes forever through his experiences in the army.</p><h2>LOC Kargil (2003)</h2><p>Directed by JP Dutta, this war classic evokes a sense of pride and patriotism. Based on the Indian Army's successful Operation Vijay, the film portrays the strategies of Indian soldiers as they planned operations against Pakistani forces from the Indian side of the Line of Control (LOC). The movie features an ensemble cast of Bollywood stars, including Sanjay Dutt, Ajay Devgn, Saif Ali Khan, Abhishek Bachchan, and Suniel Shetty, among others.</p><h2>Dhoop (2003)</h2><p>Directed by Ashwini Chaudhary, the war film is based on the Battle of Tiger Hill and revolves around the events after the death of Maha Veer Chakra awardee Captain Anuj Nayyar, who was martyred on July 5, 1999. Away from the war field, the movie depicts the heart-wrenching events of the Nayyar family.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

Over the years, the remarkable stories of the war and its soldiers have been depicted on screen. Sometimes, the movies focus on the life story of an individual major, while at other times, they tell the heartwrenching emotions of the martyred soldiers' families.

Today, on July 26, India is celebrating the 26th anniversary of the Kargil War. Each year, this day is observed to commemorate India's victory over Pakistan during the nearly three-month-long war, known as Operation Vijay. The day honours the courageous Indian armed forces and remembers the 527 soldiers who tragically lost their lives while fighting for their nation. Over the years, the remarkable stories of the war and its soldiers have been depicted on screen. Sometimes, the movies focus on the life story of an individual major, while at other times, they tell the heartwrenching emotions of the martyred soldiers' families.

<p>On Kargil Vijay Diwas, here’s a list of movies that will fill your heart with patriotism. From Sidharth Malhotra's Shershaah to the inspiring story of Lakshya, scroll to see which movie you should watch on this day.</p>

Shershaah to Dhoop: Best Movies you can stream on Kargil Vijay Diwas

<p>On the occasion of the 26th anniversary of Kargil Vijay Diwas, Chief of Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi, on Saturday (Jul 26), issued a stark warning to Pakistan, saying that those who support terrorism will not be spared. He said that continuing the legacy of Operation Vijay, the Indian Armed Forces once again foiled the actions of the Pakistani military by launching Operation Sindoor, which he described as India’s “resolve, message and answer”.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Speaking at the Kargil War Memorial in Dras, the Army Chief said, “The cowardly attack by the terrorists in Pahalgam was a deep blow to the entire country. However, this time India did not express any doubt, but the decision of the government was that the answer would be decisive. With the unwavering trust of the countrymen and the strategic freedom granted by the Government, the Indian Service gave a determined, precise and decisive response.”</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Gen Dwivedi was referring to Operation Sindoor, which targeted nine high-value terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) on May 7. Indian strikes came in response to the deadly terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam that killed 26 civilians.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“We hit the targets without causing any harm to any innocent civilians. It was a clear message that those who support terrorism will no longer be spared,” he said.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The Army Chief noted how India employed a “Whole-of-Nation Approach” where the Army, Air Force, Navy and other government departments stood together during the military operations between May 7 and May 9. “Our Army Air Defence stood like an invincible wall,” he hailed. “Our forces responded with measured, precise retaliation. This posture of strength will continue.”</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Gen Dwivedi also announced major structural upgrades, including the formation of all-arms brigades named ‘Rudra’. ‘Bhairav’ Light Commando Battalions, Drone Platoons, Loiter Munition Batteries, Indigenous Missile Systems.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“In the same sequence, agile and lethal special forces units have been formed in the form of ‘Bhairav’ Light Commando Battalions, which are ready to surprise the enemy on the borders. Drone Platoons have been set up in every infantry battalion, and the artillery has been provided with ‘Divyastra batteries’ and Loiter Munition Batteries to enhance the firepower manifold. The Army Air Defence is being equipped with indigenous missile systems,” General Dwivedi said.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Extending heartfelt gratitude to parents, Veer Naris, and the families of the fallen heroes of the Kargil War, Gen Dwivedi said, “You gave the country your bravehearts; your courage, patience and sacrifice are an inspiration for all of us. Today, the whole country pays tribute to your incomparable sacrifice and unwavering patriotism.”</p>

Army Chief hailed Operation Sindoor while speaking at the Kargil War Memorial in Dras on  26th Kargil Vijay Diwas. He gave a stark warning to Pakistan, saying those who support terrorism will not be spared.

On the occasion of the 26th anniversary of Kargil Vijay Diwas, Chief of Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi, on Saturday (Jul 26), issued a stark warning to Pakistan, saying that those who support terrorism will not be spared. He said that continuing the legacy of Operation Vijay, the Indian Armed Forces once again foiled the actions of the Pakistani military by launching Operation Sindoor, which he described as India’s “resolve, message and answer”. Speaking at the Kargil War Memorial in Dras, the Army Chief said, “The cowardly attack by the terrorists in Pahalgam was a deep blow to the entire country. However, this time India did not express any doubt, but the decision of the government was that the answer would be decisive. With the unwavering trust of the countrymen and the strategic freedom granted by the Government, the Indian Service gave a determined, precise and decisive response.” Gen Dwivedi was referring to Operation Sindoor, which targeted nine high-value terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) on May 7. Indian strikes came in response to the deadly terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam that killed 26 civilians. “We hit the targets without causing any harm to any innocent civilians. It was a clear message that those who support terrorism will no longer be spared,” he said. The Army Chief noted how India employed a “Whole-of-Nation Approach” where the Army, Air Force, Navy and other government departments stood together during the military operations between May 7 and May 9. “Our Army Air Defence stood like an invincible wall,” he hailed. “Our forces responded with measured, precise retaliation. This posture of strength will continue.” Gen Dwivedi also announced major structural upgrades, including the formation of all-arms brigades named ‘Rudra’. ‘Bhairav’ Light Commando Battalions, Drone Platoons, Loiter Munition Batteries, Indigenous Missile Systems. “In the same sequence, agile and lethal special forces units have been formed in the form of ‘Bhairav’ Light Commando Battalions, which are ready to surprise the enemy on the borders. Drone Platoons have been set up in every infantry battalion, and the artillery has been provided with ‘Divyastra batteries’ and Loiter Munition Batteries to enhance the firepower manifold. The Army Air Defence is being equipped with indigenous missile systems,” General Dwivedi said. Extending heartfelt gratitude to parents, Veer Naris, and the families of the fallen heroes of the Kargil War, Gen Dwivedi said, “You gave the country your bravehearts; your courage, patience and sacrifice are an inspiration for all of us. Today, the whole country pays tribute to your incomparable sacrifice and unwavering patriotism.”

<p>Army Chief hailed Operation Sindoor while speaking at the Kargil War Memorial in Dras on &nbsp;26th Kargil Vijay Diwas. He gave a stark warning to Pakistan, saying those who support terrorism will not be spared.</p>

‘Those who support terrorism will not be spared’: Army Chief gives clear warning to Pakistan

<p>Kargil Vijay Diwas is observed every year on July 26 to celebrate India's historic victory over Pakistan in the Kargil War of 1999. The day is marked&nbsp;as a tribute to the sacrifice and bravery of the Indian soldiers who defended our nation. This year the nation&nbsp;marks the 25th anniversary of this momentous event in Indian&nbsp;history, for which Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit Dras, in the Kargil district in Ladakh, on July 26, 2024.</p>

<h2><strong>Kargil Vijay Diwas 2024: History</strong></h2>

<p>The history of Kargil Vijay Diwas begins&nbsp;during a&nbsp;period of heightened tensions&nbsp;between India and Pakistan, following&nbsp;the war in 1971, which led to the creation of Bangladesh.</p>

<p>The tensions between the two nations were also running high after each of them&nbsp;tested their nuclear weapons in 1998.</p>

<p>In the winter of&nbsp;1998-1999,&nbsp;Pakistani forces secretly infiltrated the strategic locations of the Dras and Batalik regions in Ladakh&nbsp;to observe the movement along India's NH 1A and potentially&nbsp;gain control. This was despite&nbsp;Pakistan&nbsp;signing&nbsp;the Lahore Declaration in February 1999 to resolve the Kashmir issue.&nbsp;</p>

<p>At first, the Indian Army&nbsp;mistook the infiltrators for extremist terrorists, but they later realised that the threat&nbsp;was much bigger and launched a counterattack against the&nbsp;Pakistani forces. India mobilised about 200,000 soldiers, marking the beginning&nbsp;of the Kargil War.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jail-or-hell-indian-minister-lays-out-choice-for-pakistan-sponsored-terrorists-in-jammu-and-kashmir-743909">'Jail or Hell': Indian minister lays out choice for Pakistan-sponsored terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>Kargil Vijay Diwas 2024: Significance</strong></h2>

<p>Kargil Vijay Diwas is celebrated to honour the courage of the Indian armed forces as well as the 527 soldiers who sacrificed their lives for the nation.</p>

<p>The Indian forces regained control over the region despite the tough terrain and climate, forcing Pakistan to withdraw. This day is also seen as a symbol of unity&nbsp;and a way to show gratitude to&nbsp;our armed&nbsp;forces for keeping Indian borders safe from threats.</p>

<h2><strong>Heroes of the Kargil War</strong></h2>

<p>Kargil Vijay Diwas&nbsp;is a tribute to the valour and sacrifice our soldiers displayed for the nation.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Captain Vikram Batra:</strong>&nbsp;Captain Batra led his team and recaptured Point 4875, even after being injured. His iconic "Ye dil mange more!" is still remembered. He was part of the 13 JAK Rifles regiment and was awarded Param Vir Chakra, the highest honour of the nation posthumously.</p>

<p><strong>Rifleman Sanjay Kumar:</strong>&nbsp;Kumar, also part of the 13 JAK Rifles, fought the enemies even after getting multiple injuries at Point 4875. He was awarded Param Vir Chakra for his valour.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kupwara-encounter-terrorist-killed-one-soldier-injured-743786">Kupwara encounter: Terrorist killed, one soldier injured</a></strong></p>

<p><strong>Lieutenant Manoj Kumar Pandey:</strong>&nbsp;Lieutenant&nbsp;Pandey of the 1/11 Gorkha Rifles regiment displayed courage and leadership in clearing enemy positions. He was honoured by Param Vir Chakra posthumously.</p>

<p><strong>Grenadier Yogendra Singh Yadav:</strong>&nbsp;Despite being seriously injured, Yadav (18 Grenadiers) helped in capturing important enemy bunkers and bravely fought at Tiger Hill. He was only 19 years old and was awarded Param Vir Chakra.</p>

<p><strong>Major Rajesh Adhikari:</strong>&nbsp;Major&nbsp;Adhikari (18 Grenadiers) was leading a mission to seize an enemy bunker at Tololing. Despite being severely injured, he fought until his last breath. He was honoured with Maha Vir Chakra.</p>

<p>These heroes of Kargil displayed the highest form&nbsp;of valour and their sacrifice will always be remembered and honoured.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Kargil Vijay Diwas is observed every year on July 26 to celebrate India's historic victory over Pakistan in the Kargil War of 1999. The day is marked as a tribute to the sacrifice and bravery of the Indian soldiers who defended our nation.

Kargil Vijay Diwas is observed every year on July 26 to celebrate India's historic victory over Pakistan in the Kargil War of 1999. The day is marked as a tribute to the sacrifice and bravery of the Indian soldiers who defended our nation. This year the nation marks the 25th anniversary of this momentous event in Indian history, for which Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit Dras, in the Kargil district in Ladakh, on July 26, 2024. Kargil Vijay Diwas 2024: History The history of Kargil Vijay Diwas begins during a period of heightened tensions between India and Pakistan, following the war in 1971, which led to the creation of Bangladesh. The tensions between the two nations were also running high after each of them tested their nuclear weapons in 1998. In the winter of 1998-1999, Pakistani forces secretly infiltrated the strategic locations of the Dras and Batalik regions in Ladakh to observe the movement along India's NH 1A and potentially gain control. This was despite Pakistan signing the Lahore Declaration in February 1999 to resolve the Kashmir issue. At first, the Indian Army mistook the infiltrators for extremist terrorists, but they later realised that the threat was much bigger and launched a counterattack against the Pakistani forces. India mobilised about 200,000 soldiers, marking the beginning of the Kargil War. Also Read | 'Jail or Hell': Indian minister lays out choice for Pakistan-sponsored terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir Kargil Vijay Diwas 2024: Significance Kargil Vijay Diwas is celebrated to honour the courage of the Indian armed forces as well as the 527 soldiers who sacrificed their lives for the nation. The Indian forces regained control over the region despite the tough terrain and climate, forcing Pakistan to withdraw. This day is also seen as a symbol of unity and a way to show gratitude to our armed forces for keeping Indian borders safe from threats. Heroes of the Kargil War Kargil Vijay Diwas is a tribute to the valour and sacrifice our soldiers displayed for the nation. Captain Vikram Batra: Captain Batra led his team and recaptured Point 4875, even after being injured. His iconic "Ye dil mange more!" is still remembered. He was part of the 13 JAK Rifles regiment and was awarded Param Vir Chakra, the highest honour of the nation posthumously. Rifleman Sanjay Kumar: Kumar, also part of the 13 JAK Rifles, fought the enemies even after getting multiple injuries at Point 4875. He was awarded Param Vir Chakra for his valour. Also Read | Kupwara encounter: Terrorist killed, one soldier injured Lieutenant Manoj Kumar Pandey: Lieutenant Pandey of the 1/11 Gorkha Rifles regiment displayed courage and leadership in clearing enemy positions. He was honoured by Param Vir Chakra posthumously. Grenadier Yogendra Singh Yadav: Despite being seriously injured, Yadav (18 Grenadiers) helped in capturing important enemy bunkers and bravely fought at Tiger Hill. He was only 19 years old and was awarded Param Vir Chakra. Major Rajesh Adhikari: Major Adhikari (18 Grenadiers) was leading a mission to seize an enemy bunker at Tololing. Despite being severely injured, he fought until his last breath. He was honoured with Maha Vir Chakra. These heroes of Kargil displayed the highest form of valour and their sacrifice will always be remembered and honoured. (With inputs from agencies)

Kargil Vijay Diwas 2024: History, significance and all you need to know about Kargil heroes

<p>In February 1999, India's then Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee noticed too big a diplomatic slight to be left unnoticed at a helipad near Governor's House in Pakistan's Lahore. Pakistani army chief General Pervez Musharraf, while receiving the visiting Indian prime minister, was wearing his official military uniform and not a ceremonial one as he was supposed to according to the established protocol.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On the Indian side, this was interpreted as the Pakistani deep state's boorish show of disagreement against Vajpayee's unprecedented peace overtures; the Pakistani army's implicit act of resistance to peace with India that it concluded by occupying Indian military posts in Jammu and Kashmir.</p>

<p>A month later in March 1999, Vajpayee called Niaz Naik — Islamabad's emissary for peace talks with New Delhi that were finalised as part of Vajpayee's Lahore visit — and told him to send a message to the Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif. The message was clear. Come summer and Pakistani armed forces would stop giving cover fire to the terrorists crossing over the Line of Control into India's Jammu and Kashmir. But to everyone's surprise in New Delhi, the summer was going to be different from previous summers of decades of prolonged India-Pakistan conflict.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The above two incidents are mentioned in two of Vajpayee's biographies, 'Vajpayee: the years that changed India', authored by his former personal secretary Shakti Sinha, and 'Atal Bihari Vajpayee: A man of all seasons' authored by Kingshuk Nag.</p>

<p>On 3 May 1999, two weeks after the resignation of the second Vajpayee government, a Buddhist shepherd in Kargil —barely a few kilometres from the Line of Control or LoC, the de facto boundary between India and Pakistan — chanced upon a number of Pakistani soldiers in camouflage.</p>

<p>Soldiers who went to investigate were ambushed, and an ammunition dump was blown up.</p>

<p>Vajpayee, now a ‘caretaker’ prime minister after losing a parliamentary no-trust vote, was informally briefed. He immediately called a cabinet meeting to discuss ‘some urgent matter’.</p>

<p>Around 1,500 to 2,400 Pakistani military men and irregular fighters had entrenched themselves along a 150-odd kilometre stretch on the Indian side of the LoC at heights of 16,000&nbsp;feet. Pakistan kept on claiming that it was the so-called Mujahideen who were on the heights and not its army men. They were firing down below at the Srinagar–Leh highway, the lifeline for civilian and military supplies to northern Kashmir.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Vajpayee's strategic showpiece</strong></h2>

<p>While the Indian army was raining conventional fire to dislodge the Pakistanis, Vajpayee pulled off a remarkable strategic showpiece that catapulted previously pro-Pakistan US-led West to the Indian side. The caretaker prime minister explicitly ordered Indian Air Force planes to not cross the Line of Control, a signal to the international community that India, unlike Pakistan, respected the de-facto international boundary. "We knew we will fiercely defend ourselves not invade," Vajpayee said of his unconventional decision in New Delhi months later during his Independence Day address.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile on 12 June&nbsp;1999, in the thick of the fighting in Kargil, the then Pakistani foreign minister Sartaj Aziz visited New Delhi.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Aziz, without agreeing to go back to the LoC status quo in Kargil, called for a ceasefire in a manner that occupied Indian posts would fall on the Pakistani side.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Aziz used the excuse that since the LoC was ‘unclear’, some inadvertent transgression might well have taken place.</p>

<p>"If the Pakistan Army was not involved in the intrusion and it was the Mujahideen, then why were they asking for a ceasefire?," Shakti Sinha writes of Sartaj Aziz-Jaswat Singh talks.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"And since when were the Mujahideen bound by the India–Pakistan agreement? Their stupidity was breathtaking and audacious."</p>

<p>After Sartaj Aziz's Delhi visit, when the Pakistan Army and the country’s political leadership both requested the US to intervene and help bring about a ceasefire, Vajpayee, in his telephonic conversations with the then US President Bill Clinton, made it clear that 'either Pakistanis could vacate Indian territory on their own, or India would throw them out the way it deemed best', Sinha writes further.</p>

<p>Clinton publicly rebuked Pakistan and called upon it to withdraw its troops back to the LoC at the earliest and respect the 'sanctity of the Line of Control.'&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>How Vajpayee delegated India's intense diplomacy during the war in Kargil?</strong></h2>

<p>Clinton's rebuke of Sharif was not a surprise in New Delhi's power corridors. India's intense diplomatic effort for weeks had built up to that moment.</p>

<p>Full-page advertisements rebuking Pakistan had made their way to the international press.</p>

<p>Vajpayee sent out extensive tours of the United States which were led by senior leaders Sushma Swaraj and Narendra Modi, the latter was to become India's Prime Minister fifteen years later while the former served in his cabinet as foreign minister.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As a result of the lobbying, what followed was the US imposing sanctions on Pakistan, which included blocking all assistance from international institutions like the IMF and World Bank. In fact, the House of Representatives subcommittee, led by Congressman Jim McDermott, had agreed on a far lower level of sanctions, but the thousands of fax messages that his office, and those of the other members, received —ensured an enhanced level of sanctions against Pakistan.</p>

<p>The war was technically over on 4 July&nbsp;1999, when Clinton dressed down Sharif.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But again, if the Pakistani leadership was withdrawing and conceding at the diplomatic level, the reality on the ground differed. There were fierce counter-attacks still taking place as the retreating Pakistani soldiers would withdraw from some posts but occupy others.</p>

<p>They left behind anti-personnel mines at&nbsp;locations they were vacating.</p>

<p>Even the dead bodies of Pakistani soldiers were booby-trapped to inflict last-minute casualties on the Indian side. Thus the actual conflict with the retreating Pakistan Army ended only on 26 July, which India now celebrates as the Kargil Vijay Diwas.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:</strong></p>

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In February 1999, India's then Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee noticed too big a diplomatic slight to be left unnoticed at a helipad near Governor's House in Pakistan's Lahore.

In February 1999, India's then Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee noticed too big a diplomatic slight to be left unnoticed at a helipad near Governor's House in Pakistan's Lahore. Pakistani army chief General Pervez Musharraf, while receiving the visiting Indian prime minister, was wearing his official military uniform and not a ceremonial one as he was supposed to according to the established protocol. On the Indian side, this was interpreted as the Pakistani deep state's boorish show of disagreement against Vajpayee's unprecedented peace overtures; the Pakistani army's implicit act of resistance to peace with India that it concluded by occupying Indian military posts in Jammu and Kashmir. A month later in March 1999, Vajpayee called Niaz Naik — Islamabad's emissary for peace talks with New Delhi that were finalised as part of Vajpayee's Lahore visit — and told him to send a message to the Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif. The message was clear. Come summer and Pakistani armed forces would stop giving cover fire to the terrorists crossing over the Line of Control into India's Jammu and Kashmir. But to everyone's surprise in New Delhi, the summer was going to be different from previous summers of decades of prolonged India-Pakistan conflict. The above two incidents are mentioned in two of Vajpayee's biographies, 'Vajpayee: the years that changed India', authored by his former personal secretary Shakti Sinha, and 'Atal Bihari Vajpayee: A man of all seasons' authored by Kingshuk Nag. On 3 May 1999, two weeks after the resignation of the second Vajpayee government, a Buddhist shepherd in Kargil —barely a few kilometres from the Line of Control or LoC, the de facto boundary between India and Pakistan — chanced upon a number of Pakistani soldiers in camouflage. Soldiers who went to investigate were ambushed, and an ammunition dump was blown up. Vajpayee, now a ‘caretaker’ prime minister after losing a parliamentary no-trust vote, was informally briefed. He immediately called a cabinet meeting to discuss ‘some urgent matter’. Around 1,500 to 2,400 Pakistani military men and irregular fighters had entrenched themselves along a 150-odd kilometre stretch on the Indian side of the LoC at heights of 16,000 feet. Pakistan kept on claiming that it was the so-called Mujahideen who were on the heights and not its army men. They were firing down below at the Srinagar–Leh highway, the lifeline for civilian and military supplies to northern Kashmir. Vajpayee's strategic showpiece While the Indian army was raining conventional fire to dislodge the Pakistanis, Vajpayee pulled off a remarkable strategic showpiece that catapulted previously pro-Pakistan US-led West to the Indian side. The caretaker prime minister explicitly ordered Indian Air Force planes to not cross the Line of Control, a signal to the international community that India, unlike Pakistan, respected the de-facto international boundary. "We knew we will fiercely defend ourselves not invade," Vajpayee said of his unconventional decision in New Delhi months later during his Independence Day address. Meanwhile on 12 June 1999, in the thick of the fighting in Kargil, the then Pakistani foreign minister Sartaj Aziz visited New Delhi. Aziz, without agreeing to go back to the LoC status quo in Kargil, called for a ceasefire in a manner that occupied Indian posts would fall on the Pakistani side. Aziz used the excuse that since the LoC was ‘unclear’, some inadvertent transgression might well have taken place. "If the Pakistan Army was not involved in the intrusion and it was the Mujahideen, then why were they asking for a ceasefire?," Shakti Sinha writes of Sartaj Aziz-Jaswat Singh talks. "And since when were the Mujahideen bound by the India–Pakistan agreement? Their stupidity was breathtaking and audacious." After Sartaj Aziz's Delhi visit, when the Pakistan Army and the country’s political leadership both requested the US to intervene and help bring about a ceasefire, Vajpayee, in his telephonic conversations with the then US President Bill Clinton, made it clear that 'either Pakistanis could vacate Indian territory on their own, or India would throw them out the way it deemed best', Sinha writes further. Clinton publicly rebuked Pakistan and called upon it to withdraw its troops back to the LoC at the earliest and respect the 'sanctity of the Line of Control.' How Vajpayee delegated India's intense diplomacy during the war in Kargil? Clinton's rebuke of Sharif was not a surprise in New Delhi's power corridors. India's intense diplomatic effort for weeks had built up to that moment. Full-page advertisements rebuking Pakistan had made their way to the international press. Vajpayee sent out extensive tours of the United States which were led by senior leaders Sushma Swaraj and Narendra Modi, the latter was to become India's Prime Minister fifteen years later while the former served in his cabinet as foreign minister. As a result of the lobbying, what followed was the US imposing sanctions on Pakistan, which included blocking all assistance from international institutions like the IMF and World Bank. In fact, the House of Representatives subcommittee, led by Congressman Jim McDermott, had agreed on a far lower level of sanctions, but the thousands of fax messages that his office, and those of the other members, received —ensured an enhanced level of sanctions against Pakistan. The war was technically over on 4 July 1999, when Clinton dressed down Sharif. But again, if the Pakistani leadership was withdrawing and conceding at the diplomatic level, the reality on the ground differed. There were fierce counter-attacks still taking place as the retreating Pakistani soldiers would withdraw from some posts but occupy others. They left behind anti-personnel mines at locations they were vacating. Even the dead bodies of Pakistani soldiers were booby-trapped to inflict last-minute casualties on the Indian side. Thus the actual conflict with the retreating Pakistan Army ended only on 26 July, which India now celebrates as the Kargil Vijay Diwas. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Cast from the Past: How India's 'most loved' prime minister stunned Pakistan in Kargil

India is celebrating the 23rd Kargil Vijay Diwas. 23 years ago, on July 26, India had reclaimed the strategic peaks seized by Pakistan. Today India is celebrating the heroes who made this victory possible. Palki Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: India celebrates 23rd Kargil Vijay Diwas

<p>India commemorates Kargil Vijay Diwas to recognise the sacrifices made by Indian Army personnel during the Kargil War in 1999, the conflict that ended 23 years ago. The war, ‘Operation Vijay’ was fought between India and Pakistan in the Kargil region of the northern state, Jammu and Kashmir, known as Ladakh today. After nearly three months of armed conflict on the frigid heights of Kargil, the Indian troops declared their victory, raising the tricolor flag, a win for India. The Prime Minister of India, every year pays tribute to the soldiers at Amar Jawan Jyoti at the India Gate on this day.&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/the-future-of-kashmir-494915">The Future of Kashmir</a></strong></p>

<p><strong>But why did the war happen? Let’s check the background here:</strong></p>

<p>It all started with Kargil being a tehsil of Ladakh but after the India-Pakistan 1947-1948 war, the Line of Control split the Ladakh district in half with Skardu Tehsil joining Pakistan. The two countries who later got engaged in a war again in 1971, signed Simla Agreement promising to not engage in ant-armed combat regarding the boundaries. However, both the countries were still trying to maintain their control over the Siachen Glaciers. However, during the 1990s, tensions between the countries escalated due to separatist actions in Kashmir, apparently funded by Pakistan. Later, the countries signed the Lahore Declaration in February 1999.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, the Pakistani Army was carrying out a covert operation to cross LOC into Indian territory with the intention of cutting off the connection between Kashmir and Ladakh. Their objective was to compel the Indian army to leave the Siachen Glacier. But soon after knowing this, the Indian govt swiftly reached and wasted no time in mobilising nearly 200,000 Indian troops in the area. ‘Operation Vijay’ was the code for this mission.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Kargil Vijay Diwas 2022: India commemorates 23rd anniversary of India's win over Pakistan</strong></p>

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<p>Due to their high positioning, the Pakistani army had an upper hand over the Indian army in terms of shooting. Two Indian fighter jets were brought down by them and one crashed.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During the war, US President Bill Clinton ordered Pakistan to withdraw its troops from LOC, the country sought US action. The Indian army attacked then seeing the opportunity attacked the remaining Pakistani troops and captured the peaks while Pakistan was busy with its withdrawal.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/key-moments-in-pervez-musharraf-career-kargil-failure-bloodless-coup-agra-summit-486986">Key moments in Pervez Musharraf's career: Kargil failure, bloodless coup, Agra Summit...</a></strong></p>

<p>The Indian Army successfully finished its operation on July 26, 2000.&nbsp;</p>

<p>700 deaths were reported in Pakistan, compared to 527 deaths overall among the Indian armed soldiers.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After winning the war, Pakistan denied being involved in the war. They ascribed the responsibility to the Kashmiri separatists. Although they were spotted awarding medals to the soldiers.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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<p>You can <strong>now write for wionews.com</strong> and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>


India commemorates Kargil Vijay Diwas to recognise the sacrifices made by Indian Army personnel during the Kargil War in 1999, the conflict that ended 23 years ago.

India commemorates Kargil Vijay Diwas to recognise the sacrifices made by Indian Army personnel during the Kargil War in 1999, the conflict that ended 23 years ago. The war, ‘Operation Vijay’ was fought between India and Pakistan in the Kargil region of the northern state, Jammu and Kashmir, known as Ladakh today. After nearly three months of armed conflict on the frigid heights of Kargil, the Indian troops declared their victory, raising the tricolor flag, a win for India. The Prime Minister of India, every year pays tribute to the soldiers at Amar Jawan Jyoti at the India Gate on this day. Also read | The Future of Kashmir But why did the war happen? Let’s check the background here: It all started with Kargil being a tehsil of Ladakh but after the India-Pakistan 1947-1948 war, the Line of Control split the Ladakh district in half with Skardu Tehsil joining Pakistan. The two countries who later got engaged in a war again in 1971, signed Simla Agreement promising to not engage in ant-armed combat regarding the boundaries. However, both the countries were still trying to maintain their control over the Siachen Glaciers. However, during the 1990s, tensions between the countries escalated due to separatist actions in Kashmir, apparently funded by Pakistan. Later, the countries signed the Lahore Declaration in February 1999. However, the Pakistani Army was carrying out a covert operation to cross LOC into Indian territory with the intention of cutting off the connection between Kashmir and Ladakh. Their objective was to compel the Indian army to leave the Siachen Glacier. But soon after knowing this, the Indian govt swiftly reached and wasted no time in mobilising nearly 200,000 Indian troops in the area. ‘Operation Vijay’ was the code for this mission. Watch | Kargil Vijay Diwas 2022: India commemorates 23rd anniversary of India's win over Pakistan Due to their high positioning, the Pakistani army had an upper hand over the Indian army in terms of shooting. Two Indian fighter jets were brought down by them and one crashed. During the war, US President Bill Clinton ordered Pakistan to withdraw its troops from LOC, the country sought US action. The Indian army attacked then seeing the opportunity attacked the remaining Pakistani troops and captured the peaks while Pakistan was busy with its withdrawal. Also read | Key moments in Pervez Musharraf's career: Kargil failure, bloodless coup, Agra Summit... The Indian Army successfully finished its operation on July 26, 2000. 700 deaths were reported in Pakistan, compared to 527 deaths overall among the Indian armed soldiers. After winning the war, Pakistan denied being involved in the war. They ascribed the responsibility to the Kashmiri separatists. Although they were spotted awarding medals to the soldiers. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

India marks Kargil Diwas 2022: All you need to know about the 1999 Indo-Pak war

<p>Victory is assured when the civilians join hands with the army. The Kargil victory was possible not only because of the brave soldiers, the civilians, too, played a major role in throwing out the intruders.</p>

<p>In the Kargil war, the Indian Army gave a befitting reply to Pakistan, whose army breached the Line of Control and attacked the Drass Valley of the Kargil district 23 years ago. The story of the bravery of the Indian army is known to every citizen, but very few are aware of how civilians joined hands with the army in fighting the battle. And, if these civilians are called civil soldiers, it wouldn't be wrong.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Notably, the civilians did not fight with weapons, but their role&nbsp;was&nbsp;as important as that of an Indian soldier.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Located right below Tiger Hill, around 8 kilometres from the Drass valley is another valley called Mashku Valley. And, in this small hamlet lives Yaar Mohammad Khan.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Yar Mohammad Khan, 65, was the first person who witnessed and saw the intruders from Pakistan in Drass valley. He directly went to the Indian Army base and apprised them of the presence of Pakistani Army men in the area.</p>

<p>He had found two packs of cigarettes, which were made in Pakistan, and he took these to show to the commanding officer of the Indian Army.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On May 8, 1999, Khan informed the Indian Army about the presence of the Pakistani army men; and, on May 13, the Pakistan Army launched the attack at various points.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Khan, along with the eight Sikh Regiment soldiers and 18 Grenadier Regiment&nbsp;of the Indian Army went to conquer Tiger Hill and Batra Top. Khan not only worked as a guide to the Indian army in the tough terrain but also helped them to transport arms and ammunition on horses at night. He was with the Indian army when both the peaks were re-captured.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“I was working as a porter and when I was crossing the area, I found two packs of cigarettes which were made in Pakistan. I directly went to the Indian Army’s commanding officer and asked him to check. &nbsp;He told me that he will take a team with him. He believed me when he saw those cigarette packets. I had informed on May 8 and on May 13 Pakistani Army started firing. The war started in the Tololing area. I was with 8 Sikh Regiment soldiers&nbsp;and 18 Grenadier Regiment&nbsp;on Tiger Hill, they started firing after that it was 18 grenadiers.” said Yaar Mohammad Khan.&nbsp;</p>

<p>At that time there were hardly any civilians in the area, but Yaar Mohammad Khan didn’t leave and provided all the help to the Indian army.</p>

<p>“There was not a single person in the area. I didn’t leave but I let my family go. I went to Tiger and Batra Hills with the army. I brought 350 horses from the Amarnath Yatra. We are Indians and will always be. I am from these mountains and I was making sure they receive all the support.” added Khan.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/node/500692" hreflang="en">India marks Kargil Diwas 2022: All you need to know about the 1999 war</a></p>

<p>At the start of the Kargil war, everyone in Drass valley was leaving. The place was occupied by the Indian Army soldiers and the journalists working in the area. But there was one person who never left Drass valley despite all the shelling. That is Naseem Ahmad, who was running a small tea stall outside the premises of Drass Police station.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Naseem never shut the tea stall and made sure that every Indian army soldier crossing the area had tea at the stall. While the area was being bombarded with bombs and bullets, Naseem chose to stay put and serve the soldiers of his country.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“ During the war, it was only journalists, the Indian Army and me. I was a little scared, but the army men needed our help also. I used to make food for the soldiers. It was an extremely bad situation. The shelling was so bad that the ground used to shake a lot. I had a narrow escape in one of the shelling incidents. I am proud of the fact that I was able to provide food to our soldiers,"&nbsp;said&nbsp;Naseem Ahmad, a tea stall owner.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Apart from these two 'civilian soldiers', dozens of youth played a key role in the war in their own way to help the Indian Army to re-take the peaks that were captured by the enemy army.&nbsp;</p>


Victory is assured when the civilians join hands with the army. The Kargil victory was possible not only because of the brave soldiers, the civilians, too, played a major role in throwing out the intruders.

Victory is assured when the civilians join hands with the army. The Kargil victory was possible not only because of the brave soldiers, the civilians, too, played a major role in throwing out the intruders. In the Kargil war, the Indian Army gave a befitting reply to Pakistan, whose army breached the Line of Control and attacked the Drass Valley of the Kargil district 23 years ago. The story of the bravery of the Indian army is known to every citizen, but very few are aware of how civilians joined hands with the army in fighting the battle. And, if these civilians are called civil soldiers, it wouldn't be wrong. Notably, the civilians did not fight with weapons, but their role was as important as that of an Indian soldier. Located right below Tiger Hill, around 8 kilometres from the Drass valley is another valley called Mashku Valley. And, in this small hamlet lives Yaar Mohammad Khan. Yar Mohammad Khan, 65, was the first person who witnessed and saw the intruders from Pakistan in Drass valley. He directly went to the Indian Army base and apprised them of the presence of Pakistani Army men in the area. He had found two packs of cigarettes, which were made in Pakistan, and he took these to show to the commanding officer of the Indian Army. On May 8, 1999, Khan informed the Indian Army about the presence of the Pakistani army men; and, on May 13, the Pakistan Army launched the attack at various points. Khan, along with the eight Sikh Regiment soldiers and 18 Grenadier Regiment of the Indian Army went to conquer Tiger Hill and Batra Top. Khan not only worked as a guide to the Indian army in the tough terrain but also helped them to transport arms and ammunition on horses at night. He was with the Indian army when both the peaks were re-captured. “I was working as a porter and when I was crossing the area, I found two packs of cigarettes which were made in Pakistan. I directly went to the Indian Army’s commanding officer and asked him to check. He told me that he will take a team with him. He believed me when he saw those cigarette packets. I had informed on May 8 and on May 13 Pakistani Army started firing. The war started in the Tololing area. I was with 8 Sikh Regiment soldiers and 18 Grenadier Regiment on Tiger Hill, they started firing after that it was 18 grenadiers.” said Yaar Mohammad Khan. At that time there were hardly any civilians in the area, but Yaar Mohammad Khan didn’t leave and provided all the help to the Indian army. “There was not a single person in the area. I didn’t leave but I let my family go. I went to Tiger and Batra Hills with the army. I brought 350 horses from the Amarnath Yatra. We are Indians and will always be. I am from these mountains and I was making sure they receive all the support.” added Khan. Also read | India marks Kargil Diwas 2022: All you need to know about the 1999 war At the start of the Kargil war, everyone in Drass valley was leaving. The place was occupied by the Indian Army soldiers and the journalists working in the area. But there was one person who never left Drass valley despite all the shelling. That is Naseem Ahmad, who was running a small tea stall outside the premises of Drass Police station. Naseem never shut the tea stall and made sure that every Indian army soldier crossing the area had tea at the stall. While the area was being bombarded with bombs and bullets, Naseem chose to stay put and serve the soldiers of his country. “ During the war, it was only journalists, the Indian Army and me. I was a little scared, but the army men needed our help also. I used to make food for the soldiers. It was an extremely bad situation. The shelling was so bad that the ground used to shake a lot. I had a narrow escape in one of the shelling incidents. I am proud of the fact that I was able to provide food to our soldiers," said Naseem Ahmad, a tea stall owner. Apart from these two 'civilian soldiers', dozens of youth played a key role in the war in their own way to help the Indian Army to re-take the peaks that were captured by the enemy army.

How civilians helped Indian Army to throw out Pak intruders during 1999 Kargil war

<p>India is celebrating the 23rd anniversary of the Kargil Vijay Diwas on Tuesday (July 26). Kargil Vijay Diwas is commemorated on 26 July every year to mark India's victory against Pakistan in the Kargil War in 1999. The Indian Armed Forces defeated the Pakistani army and ousted them from crucial occupied positions in the mountains of Kargil district in Ladakh during the war in 1999.</p>

<p>It was on July 26, 1999, that India's victory was observed in the Kargil War. The day is celebrated each year to pay tribute to the soldiers who got martyred for their motherland during the war. The Indian Prime Minister and the President also pay homage to those who sacrificed their lives in the war in the country's capital New Delhi.</p>

<p>Tuesday, July 26 marks 23 years of India's victory over Pakistan in the Kargil War and tributes have been pouring in from all corners for the Indian Armed Forces. The Indian cricket fraternity also took to Twitter to pay rich tributes to the armed forces and thank them for their indispensable services to the nation.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OperationVijay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#OperationVijay</a><br />
<br />
Kargil Vijay Diwas is a reminiscence of undaunted bravery &amp; courage of the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Bravehearts?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Bravehearts</a> who inscribed a golden chapter in history, with their blood &amp; sacrifice.<br />
They gave a befitting reply to enemy's misadventure and a resounding victory to <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/India?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#India</a>.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndianArmy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndianArmy</a> <a href="https://t.co/HwVFrYHwt1">pic.twitter.com/HwVFrYHwt1</a></p>
— ADG PI - INDIAN ARMY (@adgpi) <a href="https://twitter.com/adgpi/status/1551734283420610560?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 26, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/realised-i-was-never-going-to-be-someone-like-sehwag-or-sachin-rahul-dravid-on-his-successful-career-500773">Realised, I was never going to be someone like Sehwag or Sachin: Rahul Dravid on his successful career</a></p>

<p>Former India cricketer Gautam Gambhir, who is an active politician now, took to Twitter to salute the Indian Armed Forces calling them the bravest of the brave while remembering the martyrs of the Kargil War. The likes of Yuvraj Singh, Rishabh Pant and Robin Uthappa among others also paid tribute to the Indian Armed Forces.</p>

<p>"Where it is difficult for us to even breathe, they won a WAR! Salute to the bravest of the brave! &nbsp;#KargilVijayDiwas," tweeted Gambhir.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I salute our armed forces for upholding the honour and integrity of our nation and my deepest respect to every soldier who are protecting our motherland," Indian wicket-keeper batter Rishabh Pant wrote in a tweet.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Where it is difficult for us to even breathe, they won a WAR! Salute to the bravest of the brave! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KargilVijayDiwas?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KargilVijayDiwas</a> <a href="https://t.co/rPAgCi9D8K">pic.twitter.com/rPAgCi9D8K</a></p>
— Gautam Gambhir (@GautamGambhir) <a href="https://twitter.com/GautamGambhir/status/1551787447175958528?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 26, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">I salute our armed forces for upholding the honour and integrity of our nation and my deepest respect to every soldier who are protecting our motherland.</p>
— Rishabh Pant (@RishabhPant17) <a href="https://twitter.com/RishabhPant17/status/1551791292635815936?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 26, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Paying my tributes to the courageous martyrs of the Kargil war who selflessly protected our motherland<br />
<br />
We will always be indebted to our armed forces.<br />
<br />
Jai Hind 🇮🇳 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KargilVijayDiwas2022?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KargilVijayDiwas2022</a></p>
— Yuvraj Singh (@YUVSTRONG12) <a href="https://twitter.com/YUVSTRONG12/status/1551765289398054913?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 26, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">My tributes to all the incredible bravehearts who sacrificed their lives defending our land. We are forever grateful to each and every one in our defence forces for their service to our Nation.<br />
Jai Hind! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KargilVijayDiwas?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KargilVijayDiwas</a> <a href="https://t.co/7pn0gSrK0W">pic.twitter.com/7pn0gSrK0W</a></p>
— VVS Laxman (@VVSLaxman281) <a href="https://twitter.com/VVSLaxman281/status/1551787988203343872?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 26, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">I pay my tributes to the sacrifices and gallantry of our soldiers on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KargilVijayDiwas?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KargilVijayDiwas</a> today</p>
— Robin Aiyuda Uthappa (@robbieuthappa) <a href="https://twitter.com/robbieuthappa/status/1551807058760056834?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 26, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">This day marks 23 years of India’s victory in the Kargil War, we will forever be grateful for all the gallant efforts of the real and brave heroes who sacrificed themselves to protect our great nation. Jai Hind <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KargilVijayDiwas?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KargilVijayDiwas</a></p>
— Suresh Raina(@ImRaina) <a href="https://twitter.com/ImRaina/status/1551830639690792962?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 26, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cut-odis-from-50-to-40-overs-ravi-shastri-gives-bold-suggestion-to-make-odi-cricket-entertaining-500704">'Cut ODIs from 50 to 40 overs': Ravi Shastri gives bold suggestion to make ODI cricket entertaining</a></p>

<p>A number of young officers of the Indian Army sacrificed their lives during the war in order to prevent the Pakistani forces for extending their infiltration further into the Indian territories.&nbsp;A total of 527 Indian soldiers, including heroes like Captain Vikram Batra, &nbsp;Lieutenant Manoj Kumar Pandey, Grenadier Yogendra Singh Yadav and Major Rajesh Singh Adhikari among others lost their lives during the Kargil War.</p>


India is celebrating the 23rd anniversary of the Kargil Vijay Diwas on Tuesday (July 26). Kargil Vijay Diwas is commemorated on 26 July every year to mark India's victory against Pakistan in the Kargil War in 1999.

India is celebrating the 23rd anniversary of the Kargil Vijay Diwas on Tuesday (July 26). Kargil Vijay Diwas is commemorated on 26 July every year to mark India's victory against Pakistan in the Kargil War in 1999. The Indian Armed Forces defeated the Pakistani army and ousted them from crucial occupied positions in the mountains of Kargil district in Ladakh during the war in 1999. It was on July 26, 1999, that India's victory was observed in the Kargil War. The day is celebrated each year to pay tribute to the soldiers who got martyred for their motherland during the war. The Indian Prime Minister and the President also pay homage to those who sacrificed their lives in the war in the country's capital New Delhi. Tuesday, July 26 marks 23 years of India's victory over Pakistan in the Kargil War and tributes have been pouring in from all corners for the Indian Armed Forces. The Indian cricket fraternity also took to Twitter to pay rich tributes to the armed forces and thank them for their indispensable services to the nation. #OperationVijay Kargil Vijay Diwas is a reminiscence of undaunted bravery & courage of the #Bravehearts who inscribed a golden chapter in history, with their blood & sacrifice. They gave a befitting reply to enemy's misadventure and a resounding victory to #India.#IndianArmy pic.twitter.com/HwVFrYHwt1 — ADG PI - INDIAN ARMY (@adgpi) July 26, 2022 × Also Read: Realised, I was never going to be someone like Sehwag or Sachin: Rahul Dravid on his successful career Former India cricketer Gautam Gambhir, who is an active politician now, took to Twitter to salute the Indian Armed Forces calling them the bravest of the brave while remembering the martyrs of the Kargil War. The likes of Yuvraj Singh, Rishabh Pant and Robin Uthappa among others also paid tribute to the Indian Armed Forces. "Where it is difficult for us to even breathe, they won a WAR! Salute to the bravest of the brave! #KargilVijayDiwas," tweeted Gambhir. "I salute our armed forces for upholding the honour and integrity of our nation and my deepest respect to every soldier who are protecting our motherland," Indian wicket-keeper batter Rishabh Pant wrote in a tweet. Where it is difficult for us to even breathe, they won a WAR! Salute to the bravest of the brave! #KargilVijayDiwas pic.twitter.com/rPAgCi9D8K — Gautam Gambhir (@GautamGambhir) July 26, 2022 × I salute our armed forces for upholding the honour and integrity of our nation and my deepest respect to every soldier who are protecting our motherland. — Rishabh Pant (@RishabhPant17) July 26, 2022 × Paying my tributes to the courageous martyrs of the Kargil war who selflessly protected our motherland We will always be indebted to our armed forces. Jai Hind 🇮🇳 #KargilVijayDiwas2022 — Yuvraj Singh (@YUVSTRONG12) July 26, 2022 × My tributes to all the incredible bravehearts who sacrificed their lives defending our land. We are forever grateful to each and every one in our defence forces for their service to our Nation. Jai Hind! #KargilVijayDiwas pic.twitter.com/7pn0gSrK0W — VVS Laxman (@VVSLaxman281) July 26, 2022 × I pay my tributes to the sacrifices and gallantry of our soldiers on #KargilVijayDiwas today — Robin Aiyuda Uthappa (@robbieuthappa) July 26, 2022 × This day marks 23 years of India’s victory in the Kargil War, we will forever be grateful for all the gallant efforts of the real and brave heroes who sacrificed themselves to protect our great nation. Jai Hind #KargilVijayDiwas — Suresh Raina(@ImRaina) July 26, 2022 × Also Read: 'Cut ODIs from 50 to 40 overs': Ravi Shastri gives bold suggestion to make ODI cricket entertaining A number of young officers of the Indian Army sacrificed their lives during the war in order to prevent the Pakistani forces for extending their infiltration further into the Indian territories. A total of 527 Indian soldiers, including heroes like Captain Vikram Batra, Lieutenant Manoj Kumar Pandey, Grenadier Yogendra Singh Yadav and Major Rajesh Singh Adhikari among others lost their lives during the Kargil War.

'Salute to bravest of brave': Gambhir, Pant & others pay tribute to Indian Armed Forces on Kargil Vijay Diwas

Today marks the completion of 22 years of the Kargil War, which is unanimously celebrated as the Kargil Diwas. Kargil Diwas or 'Kargil Vijay Diwas' is celebrated in honour of the Kargil War's Heroes.

22 years of Kargil Vijay Diwas: History and significance

India remembered its fallen soldiers killed in 1999 war with Pakistan in northern Jammu and Kashmir's Kargil on its 20th anniversary on Friday (July 26).

India pays homage to those killed in Kargil war with Pakistan on 20th anniversary

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