21 years of Kargil Vijay Diwas: How Indian Army dragged Pakistani infiltrators out

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will attend a commemorative function of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/kargil-vijay-diwas-institutional-approach-is-needed-in-defence-preparedness-238543">Kargil Vijay Diwas</a> at Indira Gandhi Indoor (IGI) Stadium here on Saturday.

July 26 is celebrated as Kargil Vijay Diwas every year to commemorate <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/on-kargil-vijay-diwas-army-chief-general-bipin-rawat-warns-pakistan-of-bloodier-nose-next-time-238596">India's victory over Pakistan</a> in the 1999 Kargil conflict.

On Friday, Prime Minister Modi had recalled his visit to Kargil in 1999 during the India-Pakistan war and described as "unforgettable" his interactions with the soldiers.

On the 20th anniversary of the conflict, Modi had tweeted, "During the Kargil War in 1999, I had the opportunity to go to Kargil and show solidarity with our brave soldiers. This was the time when I was working for my Party in Jammu and Kashmir as well as Himachal Pradesh. The visit to Kargil and interactions with soldiers are unforgettable."

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During the Kargil War in 1999, I had the opportunity to go to Kargil and show solidarity with our brave soldiers. 
 
This was the time when I was working for my Party in J&amp;K as well as Himachal Pradesh. 
 
The visit to Kargil and interactions with soldiers are unforgettable. <a href="https://t.co/E5QUgHlTDS">pic.twitter.com/E5QUgHlTDS</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1154581533098795008?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 26, 2019</a></blockquote>
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He had also shared photographs in which he can be seen interacting with the soldiers.

Indian Army celebrated the 20th anniversary of the Kargil War yesterday to rekindle the pride and valour of the soldiers who took part in Operation Vijay.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will attend a commemorative function of Kargil Vijay Diwas at Indira Gandhi Indoor (IGI) Stadium here on Saturday. July 26 is celebrated as Kargil Vijay Diwas every year to commemorate India's victory over Pakistan in the 1999 Kargil conflict.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will attend a commemorative function of Kargil Vijay Diwas at Indira Gandhi Indoor (IGI) Stadium here on Saturday. July 26 is celebrated as Kargil Vijay Diwas every year to commemorate India's victory over Pakistan in the 1999 Kargil conflict. On Friday, Prime Minister Modi had recalled his visit to Kargil in 1999 during the India-Pakistan war and described as "unforgettable" his interactions with the soldiers. On the 20th anniversary of the conflict, Modi had tweeted, "During the Kargil War in 1999, I had the opportunity to go to Kargil and show solidarity with our brave soldiers. This was the time when I was working for my Party in Jammu and Kashmir as well as Himachal Pradesh. The visit to Kargil and interactions with soldiers are unforgettable." During the Kargil War in 1999, I had the opportunity to go to Kargil and show solidarity with our brave soldiers. This was the time when I was working for my Party in J&K as well as Himachal Pradesh. The visit to Kargil and interactions with soldiers are unforgettable. pic.twitter.com/E5QUgHlTDS — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) July 26, 2019 × He had also shared photographs in which he can be seen interacting with the soldiers. Indian Army celebrated the 20th anniversary of the Kargil War yesterday to rekindle the pride and valour of the soldiers who took part in Operation Vijay.

PM Modi to attend commemorative function of Kargil Vijay Diwas today

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday addressed the nation during a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-to-attend-commemorative-function-of-kargil-vijay-diwas-today-238788">commemorative function of Kargil Vijay Diwas</a> at Indira Gandhi Indoor (IGI) Stadium in Delhi.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/remembering-kargil-why-prevention-is-better-than-cure-238813">Remembering the bravehearts</a> who gave away their lives for the nation 20 years back, the prime minister said that he bows his "head to the brave soldiers".

"On this occasion, I pay tribute to all those bravehearts who foiled the conspiracy to take down the tricolour from the peaks of Kargil by sacrificing their blood. I also pay respect to those brave mothers who gave birth to these bravehearts," he said.&nbsp;

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PM Narendra Modi: On this occassion, I pay tribute to all those bravehearts who foiled the conspiracy to take down the tricolour from the peaks of Kargil by sacrificing their blood. I also pay respect to those brave mothers who gave birth to these bravehearts. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KargilVijayDiwas?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KargilVijayDiwas</a> <a href="https://t.co/2pA2c13KyD">pic.twitter.com/2pA2c13KyD</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1155124374590164997?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 27, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"It is not the government that fights wars, the entire nation does," he said.&nbsp;

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi: I had gone to Kargil 20 years ago when war was at its peak, the enemy was playing its games sitting on high peaks. Death was staring in the face yet our jawans carrying the tricolor wanted to reach the valley before anyone. <a href="https://t.co/woz1ayuMOW">pic.twitter.com/woz1ayuMOW</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1155126311079337985?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 27, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"The nation owes an eternal debt to the valour of our soldiers," the PM stated.

He added that the victory of the Kargil war was India's dream which was a result of discipline and honour.&nbsp;

"Kargil victory was the victory of the bravery of our sons and daughters. It was the victory of India's strength and patience. It was the victory of India's sanctity and discipline. It was the victory of every Indian's expectations," PM Modi said.&nbsp;

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Indian Army celebrated the 20th anniversary of the Kargil War on Friday to rekindle the pride and valour of the soldiers who took part in Operation Vijay.

July 26 is celebrated as Kargil Vijay Diwas every year to commemorate India's victory over Pakistan in the 1999 Kargil conflict.

On the 20th anniversary of the conflict, Modi had tweeted, "During the Kargil War in 1999, I had the opportunity to go to Kargil and show solidarity with our brave soldiers. This was the time when I was working for my Party in Jammu and Kashmir as well as Himachal Pradesh. The visit to Kargil and interactions with soldiers are unforgettable."

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday addressed the nation during a commemorative function of Kargil Vijay Diwas at Indira Gandhi Indoor (IGI) Stadium in Delhi.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday addressed the nation during a commemorative function of Kargil Vijay Diwas at Indira Gandhi Indoor (IGI) Stadium in Delhi. Remembering the bravehearts who gave away their lives for the nation 20 years back, the prime minister said that he bows his "head to the brave soldiers". "On this occasion, I pay tribute to all those bravehearts who foiled the conspiracy to take down the tricolour from the peaks of Kargil by sacrificing their blood. I also pay respect to those brave mothers who gave birth to these bravehearts," he said. PM Narendra Modi: On this occassion, I pay tribute to all those bravehearts who foiled the conspiracy to take down the tricolour from the peaks of Kargil by sacrificing their blood. I also pay respect to those brave mothers who gave birth to these bravehearts. #KargilVijayDiwas pic.twitter.com/2pA2c13KyD — ANI (@ANI) July 27, 2019 × "It is not the government that fights wars, the entire nation does," he said. Prime Minister Narendra Modi: I had gone to Kargil 20 years ago when war was at its peak, the enemy was playing its games sitting on high peaks. Death was staring in the face yet our jawans carrying the tricolor wanted to reach the valley before anyone. pic.twitter.com/woz1ayuMOW — ANI (@ANI) July 27, 2019 × "The nation owes an eternal debt to the valour of our soldiers," the PM stated. He added that the victory of the Kargil war was India's dream which was a result of discipline and honour. "Kargil victory was the victory of the bravery of our sons and daughters. It was the victory of India's strength and patience. It was the victory of India's sanctity and discipline. It was the victory of every Indian's expectations," PM Modi said. × Indian Army celebrated the 20th anniversary of the Kargil War on Friday to rekindle the pride and valour of the soldiers who took part in Operation Vijay. July 26 is celebrated as Kargil Vijay Diwas every year to commemorate India's victory over Pakistan in the 1999 Kargil conflict. On the 20th anniversary of the conflict, Modi had tweeted, "During the Kargil War in 1999, I had the opportunity to go to Kargil and show solidarity with our brave soldiers. This was the time when I was working for my Party in Jammu and Kashmir as well as Himachal Pradesh. The visit to Kargil and interactions with soldiers are unforgettable."

'I bow my head to brave soldiers,' says PM Modi in tribute to Kargil bravehearts

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi attends the Kargil Vijay Diwas commemorative function at Delhi's Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Stadium. Indian Prime Minister said Kargil was a victory of India's discipline and honour. Watch this video to know more.

PM Modi addresses the nation, pays tribute to Kargil bravehearts

Punjab chief minister Amarinder Singh on Friday promoted <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kargil-war-shepherd-who-informed-indian-army-of-pakistan-infiltration-still-awaits-recognition-238499">Kargil war</a> hero Satpal Singh to the post of Assistant Sub-Inspector from Senior Constable.

Satpal Singh, who joined Punjab Police in 2010 after his discharge from the Army, has been promoted to the new post after the chief minister authorised the DGP to grant the required relaxation in age for the promotion.

Singh, who has been managing traffic as a senior constable in the state police, was given the double promotion after chief minister read a news report about him on Friday morning. 
 
"Within hours of discovering that a hero of the Kargil war was managing traffic as a mere senior constable, Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh on Friday ordered an immediate double promotion for the Vir Chakra awardee, whose credentials were completely ignored by the erstwhile SAD-BJP government at the time of his recruitment in 2010," read a statement issued by the Punjab government. 
 
"As a special case, Satpal will be recruited as an Assistant Sub Inspector, in relaxation of Rule 12.3 of Punjab Police Rules by the DGP, who has been so authorized by the Chief Minister," the statement added.

Satpal Singh is Vir Chakra awardee who served as an Army captain during the 1965 India-Pakistan war. He was part of India's Operation Vijay and one of the important figures in the Battle of Tiger Hill which took place between India and Pakistan during the Kargil war in 1999. He killed Pakistani army Capt Karnal Sher Khan and three others during close encounters.

Singh had earlier complained that apathy of the government forced him to "salute" people who were junior in rank and position to him. "I am forced to salute people who are junior to me in rank and position. I was not given the appropriate rank by the Punjab police due to which I working as a traffic constable," Singh told news agency ANI.

 
 
(With inputs from ANI)

Punjab chief minister Amarinder Singh on Friday promoted Kargil war hero Satpal Singh to the post of Assistant Sub-Inspector from Senior Constable. Satpal Singh, who joined Punjab Police in 2010 after his discharge from the Army, has been promoted to the new post after the chief minister authorised the DGP to grant the required relaxation in age for the promotion.

Punjab chief minister Amarinder Singh on Friday promoted Kargil war hero Satpal Singh to the post of Assistant Sub-Inspector from Senior Constable. Satpal Singh, who joined Punjab Police in 2010 after his discharge from the Army, has been promoted to the new post after the chief minister authorised the DGP to grant the required relaxation in age for the promotion. Singh, who has been managing traffic as a senior constable in the state police, was given the double promotion after chief minister read a news report about him on Friday morning. "Within hours of discovering that a hero of the Kargil war was managing traffic as a mere senior constable, Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh on Friday ordered an immediate double promotion for the Vir Chakra awardee, whose credentials were completely ignored by the erstwhile SAD-BJP government at the time of his recruitment in 2010," read a statement issued by the Punjab government. "As a special case, Satpal will be recruited as an Assistant Sub Inspector, in relaxation of Rule 12.3 of Punjab Police Rules by the DGP, who has been so authorized by the Chief Minister," the statement added. Satpal Singh is Vir Chakra awardee who served as an Army captain during the 1965 India-Pakistan war. He was part of India's Operation Vijay and one of the important figures in the Battle of Tiger Hill which took place between India and Pakistan during the Kargil war in 1999. He killed Pakistani army Capt Karnal Sher Khan and three others during close encounters. Singh had earlier complained that apathy of the government forced him to "salute" people who were junior in rank and position to him. "I am forced to salute people who are junior to me in rank and position. I was not given the appropriate rank by the Punjab police due to which I working as a traffic constable," Singh told news agency ANI. (With inputs from ANI)

Kargil war hero Satpal Singh gets double promotion

Every year, July 26 is marked as Kargil Vijay Diwas. Since that fateful day twenty years ago when we pushed out the Pakistani infiltrators and recaptured the Kargil heights, we commemorate the brave soldiers who triumphed over our enemy. By official counts, some 527 officers and men were martyred in this undeclared war. This year too, led by President Ram Nath Kovind, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and Army Chief General Bipin Rawat, we mourned our martyrs and celebrated our victory. General Rawat warned Pakistan that if it dared to infiltrate again, it will have to “take back bodies.”&nbsp;

Without sounding a negative note, it is important to observe how practically none of the many experts and dignitaries that were a part of the hundreds of hours of media coverage spoke of how Pakistan gained the Kargil heights in the first place. How were we caught napping? How did we lose so many peaks, if not posts, before we began to retaliate? Was there a failure on our part? If so, who was responsible? It was precisely to answer such questions that the government set up the Kargil Review Committee (KRC) on July &nbsp;29, just three days after the end of the war on July 26. As per its “Terms of Reference,” the KRC was to “to examine the sequence of events and make recommendations for the future.” The chairman of the KRC was the noted security expert, Krishnaswamy Subrahmanyam, Secretary for Defence Production, Ministry of Defence, who also served as director of the Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses (IDSA). His son, Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, is our current Minister of External Affairs.&nbsp;

The KRC completed its report on December 15, 1999, after meetings and interviews with over a hundred military and intelligence officers, politicians, diplomats, and journalists. Though parts of the KRC are still classified, there is enough in the public domain to indicate that the Kargil war began with serious lapses on India’s part: “the Pakistani armed intrusion in the Kargil sector came as a complete and total surprise to the Indian Government, Army and intelligence agencies as well as to the J&amp;K State Government and its agencies.” In fact, the KRC found that no individual or agency “was able clearly to assess before the event the possibility of a large scale Pakistani military intrusion.” This despite the fact that such an invasion or incursion had been spoken of in Pakistani defence and political circles for the prior two decades. The KRC concluded that there was a “critical failure in intelligence” in addition to “many grave deficiencies in India’s security management system.”&nbsp;

An anonymous Pakistani soldier’s account, published in Time magazine on July 12, 1999, shows that the systematic infiltration had started by February 1999, possibly earlier. Yet, according to the KRC, it was detected only as late as May 3, some three months later, by “shepherds.” The KRC also admits that by this time there were “around 140 posts and pickets established by regulars of Pakistan Army, over a frontage of 100 km up to a depth of 8 km inside Indian territory over months in 1999.” Even after these facts came to the attention of the top brass of the Indian army were still in a damage control mode, asserting that “the situation was local and would be dealt with locally.”

There are other accounts of the Kargil war in the public domain, such as in former foreign minister, Jaswant Singh’s book, A Call to Honour. His son, Manvendra Singh, then a Territorial Army officer and defence reporter for a leading English daily, recalls that our then Defence Minister, George Fernandes, was himself unaware of “unusual happenings” in the Drass-Kargil sector. Apparently, “local Army formations had kept the Army Headquarters in the dark even as they were discovering the truth about the intrusions in the Drass-Kargil-Batalik sectors.” During a briefing on May 17, after Prime Minister Atal Behari Vajpayee had personally taken charge of the situation, the Director-General Military Operations (DGMO) assured him that the incursions would be cleared in “two or three weeks or so.” In retrospect, it seems clear that Kargil, as Lt General DB Shekatkar conceded, “was the outcome of intelligence failures.”&nbsp;

Yet, thanks to the KRC, many important changes were made to improve our combat readiness in the region and prevent such costly mistakes in the future. Among these, the National Technical Reconnaissance Organisation (NTRO) and Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA) are considered positive outcomes. One other sidelight of the conflict, which few care to mention today, is that it was the Bofors howitzer that actually helped dislodge the Pakistanis. The gun was good though its purchase was tainted by the scandal and corruption.

(This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-remembering-kargil-why-prevention-is-better-than-cure-2776138">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

Every year, July 26 is marked as Kargil Vijay Diwas. Since that fateful day twenty years ago when we pushed out the Pakistani infiltrators and recaptured the Kargil heights, we commemorate the brave soldiers who triumphed over our enemy.

Every year, July 26 is marked as Kargil Vijay Diwas. Since that fateful day twenty years ago when we pushed out the Pakistani infiltrators and recaptured the Kargil heights, we commemorate the brave soldiers who triumphed over our enemy. By official counts, some 527 officers and men were martyred in this undeclared war. This year too, led by President Ram Nath Kovind, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and Army Chief General Bipin Rawat, we mourned our martyrs and celebrated our victory. General Rawat warned Pakistan that if it dared to infiltrate again, it will have to “take back bodies.” Without sounding a negative note, it is important to observe how practically none of the many experts and dignitaries that were a part of the hundreds of hours of media coverage spoke of how Pakistan gained the Kargil heights in the first place. How were we caught napping? How did we lose so many peaks, if not posts, before we began to retaliate? Was there a failure on our part? If so, who was responsible? It was precisely to answer such questions that the government set up the Kargil Review Committee (KRC) on July 29, just three days after the end of the war on July 26. As per its “Terms of Reference,” the KRC was to “to examine the sequence of events and make recommendations for the future.” The chairman of the KRC was the noted security expert, Krishnaswamy Subrahmanyam, Secretary for Defence Production, Ministry of Defence, who also served as director of the Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses (IDSA). His son, Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, is our current Minister of External Affairs. The KRC completed its report on December 15, 1999, after meetings and interviews with over a hundred military and intelligence officers, politicians, diplomats, and journalists. Though parts of the KRC are still classified, there is enough in the public domain to indicate that the Kargil war began with serious lapses on India’s part: “the Pakistani armed intrusion in the Kargil sector came as a complete and total surprise to the Indian Government, Army and intelligence agencies as well as to the J&K State Government and its agencies.” In fact, the KRC found that no individual or agency “was able clearly to assess before the event the possibility of a large scale Pakistani military intrusion.” This despite the fact that such an invasion or incursion had been spoken of in Pakistani defence and political circles for the prior two decades. The KRC concluded that there was a “critical failure in intelligence” in addition to “many grave deficiencies in India’s security management system.” An anonymous Pakistani soldier’s account, published in Time magazine on July 12, 1999, shows that the systematic infiltration had started by February 1999, possibly earlier. Yet, according to the KRC, it was detected only as late as May 3, some three months later, by “shepherds.” The KRC also admits that by this time there were “around 140 posts and pickets established by regulars of Pakistan Army, over a frontage of 100 km up to a depth of 8 km inside Indian territory over months in 1999.” Even after these facts came to the attention of the top brass of the Indian army were still in a damage control mode, asserting that “the situation was local and would be dealt with locally.” There are other accounts of the Kargil war in the public domain, such as in former foreign minister, Jaswant Singh’s book, A Call to Honour. His son, Manvendra Singh, then a Territorial Army officer and defence reporter for a leading English daily, recalls that our then Defence Minister, George Fernandes, was himself unaware of “unusual happenings” in the Drass-Kargil sector. Apparently, “local Army formations had kept the Army Headquarters in the dark even as they were discovering the truth about the intrusions in the Drass-Kargil-Batalik sectors.” During a briefing on May 17, after Prime Minister Atal Behari Vajpayee had personally taken charge of the situation, the Director-General Military Operations (DGMO) assured him that the incursions would be cleared in “two or three weeks or so.” In retrospect, it seems clear that Kargil, as Lt General DB Shekatkar conceded, “was the outcome of intelligence failures.” Yet, thanks to the KRC, many important changes were made to improve our combat readiness in the region and prevent such costly mistakes in the future. Among these, the National Technical Reconnaissance Organisation (NTRO) and Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA) are considered positive outcomes. One other sidelight of the conflict, which few care to mention today, is that it was the Bofors howitzer that actually helped dislodge the Pakistanis. The gun was good though its purchase was tainted by the scandal and corruption. (This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

Remembering Kargil: Why prevention is better than cure

In a warning to Pakistan on the 20th Kargil Vijay Diwas, Army Chief General Bipin Rawat asked the neighbouring country not to repeat any such misadventure, saying they will face even worse consequences. Army Chief General Bipin Rawat paid tribute at the war memorial in Dras, where in his message to Pakistan, he said, "Don't do it. Misadventures are normally not repeated. You'll get a bloodier nose next time." This came a day after the Army Chief ruled out Kargil-like misadventure by Pakistan saying the Indian Armed Forces were much more powerful than they were in 1999. "It was a big misadventure undertaken by the Pakistan army in 1999. They did not appreciate the will and the intent of the Indian political establishment and the Indian armed forces that we will never allow them to succeed, General Rawat said as he addressed the media a day ahead of the Kargil Vijay Diwas.

Army Chief warns Pakistan on 20th Kargil Vijay Diwas

Nineteen years ago on this day, the Kargil War or the Kargil conflict that took place between May 3 and July 26, 1999, in the Kargil district of Kashmir and along the Line of Control (LOC), officially came to an end. The Indian soldiers successfully reclaimed all the peaks that had been seized by our nuclear-armed neighbor Pakistan. India is celebrating the 20th anniversary of the Kargil Vijay Diwas on Friday, July 26. PM Modi pays tribute to Kargil war martyrs by plantation at Lok Sabha Secretariat.

Lok Sabha Secretariat: PM Modi pays tribute to Kargil war martyrs by plantation

On 26 July 2019, India is celebrating the 20th anniversary of the victory of the Indian Armed Forces in Operation Vijay against the infiltrating Pakistani troops. The anniversary is observed each year across the nation to show respect and gratitude to the brave servicemen of the armed forces who laid down their lives to re-capture all positions that had been seized by the Pakistan Army. Know How & Why is India celebrating Kargil Vijay Diwas 20th Anniversary #KargilVijayDiwas #KargilWar

20th Anniversary of Kargil Vijay Diwas | Know what happened 20 years ago

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

In the run-up to the 20th anniversary of Kargil Vijay Diwas on July 26, 2019, the first of this two-part series focused on the initiation of the Kargil conflict.

In this concluding part, I intend to bring to the public some aspects of conflict progression, the constraints on the Indian Army to clear the intrusion and, briefly, where we stand today with reference to a potential repeat of Kargil.

The relatively slow response in May 1999 towards the expulsion of the intrusion was due to the lack of intelligence on the actual spread and magnitude of the intrusion. &nbsp;

In the mountains at higher altitudes, small infantry forces merge well with scraggy peaks and unless probing actions actually get into contact with intruding elements, it is difficult to ascertain the extent of ingress. &nbsp;&nbsp;

There were gaps in the defences and with vacated winter posts yet unoccupied by the Indian Army, the exercise to ascertain the frontage and exact locations was a challenge. &nbsp;

The IAF activated and flew a number of missions, but found determination of pinpoint targets difficult due to heights it had to fly at to avoid Pakistani shoulder-fired missiles. &nbsp;

Shortly thereafter came the restriction preventing both the army and the IAF from crossing the LoC. The implication was that the IAF had to fly parallel to the LoC while the Army’s operations could not plan to adopt rear, and sometimes even flanking approaches, to reach the occupied heights, which stood at 16,000 to 18,000 feet. &nbsp;

Troops had to be redeployed from the Kashmir Valley; in fact the entire 8 Mountain Division had to disengage from the counter-terror grid, acclimatise the troops and be prepared for high-altitude assault. &nbsp;

This is one of the most hazardous operations infantrymen ever undertake, having to climb 6,000 to 7,000 feet from the Dras-Mashkoh valley floor to reach their objectives. &nbsp;

Each assault by a company of 80-100 men took the better part of a week or more to attain even a modicum of success with the threat of a counterattack always present. &nbsp;

En route they suffered severe privations, very limited logistical support and heavy casualties. Higher attrition occurred due to the decision not to cross the LoC and it remains a point of debate whether anything was achieved by this. &nbsp;

At higher diplomatic levels, it helped in securing international recognition of India’s sense of responsibility and perhaps put Pakistan on the mat. &nbsp;

That helped in the US decision to force Pakistan to vacate the territory not yet cleared by the Indian Army. Some may argue that it saved many more casualties that Indian Army may have suffered, if it had to recapture every single occupied post.

What needs to be remembered is that this was not a war fought by individual arms or services of the army. Logistics played a major role and the decisions to deploy 100 artillery guns for each battalion assault, along with direct firing by Bofors guns, were all game changers. It was the collective contribution of the Army and IAF, which ensured victory for the Indian forces. &nbsp;

At another level, the failure of the Pakistan Army to collect their dead, feigning that they were freedom fighters, left the Indian Army on a higher moral plane. Honourable burial of the enemy’s dead followed with full honours due to them.

The state of preparedness of the Indian Army to fight such a war was actually abysmal. Kargil was a relatively low priority sector with assessment of potential employment of just a brigade by Pakistan in the eventuality of a full-scale war. &nbsp;

That would have had different implications. A standalone operation is something else. Military wherewithal had to be collected from different locations and flown to Kargil, reserve formations had to move and acclimatise the troops. &nbsp;

All the while, the footprint of Pakistan-sponsored terror in Kashmir Valley and Jammu was increasing, taking full advantage of the attention focused on Kargil.

One of the earliest decisions after the conflict was to curtail the Srinagar-based 15 Corps’ responsibility to the area between Zojila and Jawahar Tunnel and hand over operational responsibility of Ladakh, including Kargil, to the newly raised Headquarters 14 Corps. &nbsp;

The Kargil Review Committee was set up as a consequence of the admission that all was not well with national security. The Committee did yeoman service with its recommendations and a Group of Ministers (GoM) was set up to examine the recommendations. &nbsp;&nbsp;

It’s unfortunate that even with as big a trigger as Kargil 1999, the implementation of identified recommendations of the GoM were never implemented in letter and spirit. Half-baked measures such as creation of HQ Integrated Defence Staff as against an integrated Ministry of Defence were made. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Eighteen years down the line it has not happened. The fast-track acquisitions processed by the government in 1999-2001 have never been replicated and Indian troops yet fight with the same rifles they fought with in 1999. &nbsp;

India is definitely better equipped to handle crises of the Kargil type but no adversary repeats his strategy. It will be another plan and another place. National security capability demands a holistic ability to assess what, where and how an adversary may target India’s security. It also demands rapid response and appropriate capability to give our forces a more than equal chance to prevent the adversary achieving his aim. &nbsp;

All this can at no time be at levels of hundred per cent readiness, but optimisation is always possible and that is what we should be focused upon, without turfs and without personalities. &nbsp;

It has to be an institutional approach, the start point of which is surely a National Security Strategy paper from the government followed by a serious debate in Parliament.

 
(This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-kargil-99-conflict-termination-2775761">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

In the run-up to the 20th anniversary of Kargil Vijay Diwas on July 26, 2019, the first of this two-part series focused on the initiation of the Kargil conflict.

In the run-up to the 20th anniversary of Kargil Vijay Diwas on July 26, 2019, the first of this two-part series focused on the initiation of the Kargil conflict. In this concluding part, I intend to bring to the public some aspects of conflict progression, the constraints on the Indian Army to clear the intrusion and, briefly, where we stand today with reference to a potential repeat of Kargil. The relatively slow response in May 1999 towards the expulsion of the intrusion was due to the lack of intelligence on the actual spread and magnitude of the intrusion. In the mountains at higher altitudes, small infantry forces merge well with scraggy peaks and unless probing actions actually get into contact with intruding elements, it is difficult to ascertain the extent of ingress. There were gaps in the defences and with vacated winter posts yet unoccupied by the Indian Army, the exercise to ascertain the frontage and exact locations was a challenge. The IAF activated and flew a number of missions, but found determination of pinpoint targets difficult due to heights it had to fly at to avoid Pakistani shoulder-fired missiles. Shortly thereafter came the restriction preventing both the army and the IAF from crossing the LoC. The implication was that the IAF had to fly parallel to the LoC while the Army’s operations could not plan to adopt rear, and sometimes even flanking approaches, to reach the occupied heights, which stood at 16,000 to 18,000 feet. Troops had to be redeployed from the Kashmir Valley; in fact the entire 8 Mountain Division had to disengage from the counter-terror grid, acclimatise the troops and be prepared for high-altitude assault. This is one of the most hazardous operations infantrymen ever undertake, having to climb 6,000 to 7,000 feet from the Dras-Mashkoh valley floor to reach their objectives. Each assault by a company of 80-100 men took the better part of a week or more to attain even a modicum of success with the threat of a counterattack always present. En route they suffered severe privations, very limited logistical support and heavy casualties. Higher attrition occurred due to the decision not to cross the LoC and it remains a point of debate whether anything was achieved by this. At higher diplomatic levels, it helped in securing international recognition of India’s sense of responsibility and perhaps put Pakistan on the mat. That helped in the US decision to force Pakistan to vacate the territory not yet cleared by the Indian Army. Some may argue that it saved many more casualties that Indian Army may have suffered, if it had to recapture every single occupied post. What needs to be remembered is that this was not a war fought by individual arms or services of the army. Logistics played a major role and the decisions to deploy 100 artillery guns for each battalion assault, along with direct firing by Bofors guns, were all game changers. It was the collective contribution of the Army and IAF, which ensured victory for the Indian forces. At another level, the failure of the Pakistan Army to collect their dead, feigning that they were freedom fighters, left the Indian Army on a higher moral plane. Honourable burial of the enemy’s dead followed with full honours due to them. The state of preparedness of the Indian Army to fight such a war was actually abysmal. Kargil was a relatively low priority sector with assessment of potential employment of just a brigade by Pakistan in the eventuality of a full-scale war. That would have had different implications. A standalone operation is something else. Military wherewithal had to be collected from different locations and flown to Kargil, reserve formations had to move and acclimatise the troops. All the while, the footprint of Pakistan-sponsored terror in Kashmir Valley and Jammu was increasing, taking full advantage of the attention focused on Kargil. One of the earliest decisions after the conflict was to curtail the Srinagar-based 15 Corps’ responsibility to the area between Zojila and Jawahar Tunnel and hand over operational responsibility of Ladakh, including Kargil, to the newly raised Headquarters 14 Corps. The Kargil Review Committee was set up as a consequence of the admission that all was not well with national security. The Committee did yeoman service with its recommendations and a Group of Ministers (GoM) was set up to examine the recommendations. It’s unfortunate that even with as big a trigger as Kargil 1999, the implementation of identified recommendations of the GoM were never implemented in letter and spirit. Half-baked measures such as creation of HQ Integrated Defence Staff as against an integrated Ministry of Defence were made. Eighteen years down the line it has not happened. The fast-track acquisitions processed by the government in 1999-2001 have never been replicated and Indian troops yet fight with the same rifles they fought with in 1999. India is definitely better equipped to handle crises of the Kargil type but no adversary repeats his strategy. It will be another plan and another place. National security capability demands a holistic ability to assess what, where and how an adversary may target India’s security. It also demands rapid response and appropriate capability to give our forces a more than equal chance to prevent the adversary achieving his aim. All this can at no time be at levels of hundred per cent readiness, but optimisation is always possible and that is what we should be focused upon, without turfs and without personalities. It has to be an institutional approach, the start point of which is surely a National Security Strategy paper from the government followed by a serious debate in Parliament. (This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

Kargil Vijay Diwas: Institutional approach is needed in defence preparedness

Army chief General Bipin Rawat on Friday warned Pakistan of a "bloodier nose" if it chooses to go into another war with India while advising the neighbouring country of not repeating "misadventures". 
 
"Don't do it. Misadventures are normally not repeated. You'll get a bloodier nose next time," he said in a press conference when asked about his message to Pakistan on the 20th anniversary of India's victory in the Kargil war. 
 
Talking about modernising the Army's inventory, Rawat said that the focus is on the Artillery weapon system. 
 
"We are looking at modernising our inventory. Our focus is on Artillery weapon system, by 2020 we will get the Howitzers, K-9 Vajra is being manufactured in the country now and two Bofors like guns are being manufactured locally," he said. 
 
The Army chief said that "peace" and "tranquillity" prevails along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) and the situation is under control. 
 
Rawat further said that the soldiers will continue to man and guard the borders while assuring the countrymen about their security."I want to convey to our countrymen that you can be rest assured that any task given to defence services will always be accomplished no matter how difficult it is. Our soldiers will continue to man and guard our borders," Rawat said. 
 
Indian Army is celebrating the 20th anniversary of the Kargil War today to rekindle the pride and valour of the soldiers who took part in Operation Vijay. July 26 is celebrated as Kargil Vijay Diwas every year to mark India's triumph over Pakistan on this day in 1999. 
 
&nbsp;

Army chief General Bipin Rawat on Friday warned Pakistan of a "bloodier nose" if it chooses to go into another war with India while advising the neighbouring country of not repeating "misadventures".

Army chief General Bipin Rawat on Friday warned Pakistan of a "bloodier nose" if it chooses to go into another war with India while advising the neighbouring country of not repeating "misadventures". "Don't do it. Misadventures are normally not repeated. You'll get a bloodier nose next time," he said in a press conference when asked about his message to Pakistan on the 20th anniversary of India's victory in the Kargil war. Talking about modernising the Army's inventory, Rawat said that the focus is on the Artillery weapon system. "We are looking at modernising our inventory. Our focus is on Artillery weapon system, by 2020 we will get the Howitzers, K-9 Vajra is being manufactured in the country now and two Bofors like guns are being manufactured locally," he said. The Army chief said that "peace" and "tranquillity" prevails along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) and the situation is under control. Rawat further said that the soldiers will continue to man and guard the borders while assuring the countrymen about their security."I want to convey to our countrymen that you can be rest assured that any task given to defence services will always be accomplished no matter how difficult it is. Our soldiers will continue to man and guard our borders," Rawat said. Indian Army is celebrating the 20th anniversary of the Kargil War today to rekindle the pride and valour of the soldiers who took part in Operation Vijay. July 26 is celebrated as Kargil Vijay Diwas every year to mark India's triumph over Pakistan on this day in 1999.

On Kargil Vijay Diwas, Army chief General Bipin Rawat warns Pakistan of 'bloodier nose' next time

On 26 July 2019, India is celebrating the 20th anniversary of the victory of the Indian Armed Forces in Operation Vijay against the infiltrating Pakistani troops. The anniversary is observed each year across the nation to show respect and gratitude to the brave servicemen of the armed forces who laid down their lives to re-capture all positions that had been seized by the Pakistan Army. #KargilVijayDiwas #KargilWar

20th Kargil Vijay Diwas: India celebrates Kargil victory day today

Sports fraternity saluted the Indian soldiers who made sacrifices on the line of duty, on the 20th anniversary of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/president-ram-nath-kovind-hails-soldiers-on-20th-anniversary-of-indias-victory-in-kargil-war-238526">India's triumph in the Kargil war</a>. Players across different sports took to Twitter to hail the Indian soldiers.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=gautam+gambhir">Gautam Gambhir</a>, former Indian cricketer and East Delhi MP, tweeted,&nbsp;""ai mere vtn ke logoN, tum khuub lgaa lo naaraa ye shubh din hai hm sbkaa, lhraa lo tirNgaa pyaaraa pr mt bhuulo siimaa pr, viiroN ne haiN praann gvaaye kuch yaad unheN bhii kr lo, jo lautt ke ghr n aaye / " kaargil ke shhiid jvaanoN ko meraa dil se sht sht nmn / bhaart maataa kii jy #KargilVijayDiwas."&nbsp;

India opening batsman Shikhar Dhawan said that he will not forget the sacrifices made by the Indian Army. "I will never forget the sacrifices made by the martyrs of our Indian Army, the courage they showed in the Kargil war. Jai Hind! #KargilVijayDiwas," Dhawan tweeted.&nbsp;

India batsman Suresh Raina also paid his tribute as he wrote, "I salute the unflinching courage of our martyred soldiers &amp; everyone who fought the Kargil War diligently, protected the nation &amp; its people. Your sacrifices will be held in high regard &amp; remembered today &amp; every day.#KargilVijayDiwas."&nbsp;

"I bow down to the sacrifice of the soldiers who reclaimed the peaks, sacrificed their lives and salute the courage and valour of the men and women who stand guard. #KargilVijayDiwas," former Indian cricket VVS Laxman wrote.&nbsp;

Former Indian cricketer Mohammad Kaif tweeted, ""Kargil ke Amar Jawan, Aapko hamara Salaam". Homage and gratitude to our brave soldiers. The nation will always be grateful to you for your sacrifice, valour and courage #KargilVijayDiwas."

"All Gave Some,Some Gave All. Fallen But Never Forgotten. KargilVijayDivas #20YearsOfKargilVijay," wrote Indian boxer Vijendra Singh on the micro-blogging site.&nbsp;

Watch: 20th Anniversary of Kargil Vijay Diwas, know what happened 20 years ago

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The Indian armed forces had defeated Pakistan on July 26, 1999. Since then, the day is celebrated as Kargil Vijay Diwas.&nbsp;

Sports fraternity saluted the Indian soldiers who made sacrifices on the line of duty, on the 20th anniversary of India's triumph in the Kargil war. Players across different sports took to Twitter to hail the Indian soldiers.

Sports fraternity saluted the Indian soldiers who made sacrifices on the line of duty, on the 20th anniversary of India's triumph in the Kargil war. Players across different sports took to Twitter to hail the Indian soldiers. Gautam Gambhir, former Indian cricketer and East Delhi MP, tweeted, ""ai mere vtn ke logoN, tum khuub lgaa lo naaraa ye shubh din hai hm sbkaa, lhraa lo tirNgaa pyaaraa pr mt bhuulo siimaa pr, viiroN ne haiN praann gvaaye kuch yaad unheN bhii kr lo, jo lautt ke ghr n aaye / " kaargil ke shhiid jvaanoN ko meraa dil se sht sht nmn / bhaart maataa kii jy #KargilVijayDiwas." India opening batsman Shikhar Dhawan said that he will not forget the sacrifices made by the Indian Army. "I will never forget the sacrifices made by the martyrs of our Indian Army, the courage they showed in the Kargil war. Jai Hind! #KargilVijayDiwas," Dhawan tweeted. India batsman Suresh Raina also paid his tribute as he wrote, "I salute the unflinching courage of our martyred soldiers & everyone who fought the Kargil War diligently, protected the nation & its people. Your sacrifices will be held in high regard & remembered today & every day.#KargilVijayDiwas." "I bow down to the sacrifice of the soldiers who reclaimed the peaks, sacrificed their lives and salute the courage and valour of the men and women who stand guard. #KargilVijayDiwas," former Indian cricket VVS Laxman wrote. Former Indian cricketer Mohammad Kaif tweeted, ""Kargil ke Amar Jawan, Aapko hamara Salaam". Homage and gratitude to our brave soldiers. The nation will always be grateful to you for your sacrifice, valour and courage #KargilVijayDiwas." "All Gave Some,Some Gave All. Fallen But Never Forgotten. KargilVijayDivas #20YearsOfKargilVijay," wrote Indian boxer Vijendra Singh on the micro-blogging site. Watch: 20th Anniversary of Kargil Vijay Diwas, know what happened 20 years ago × The Indian armed forces had defeated Pakistan on July 26, 1999. Since then, the day is celebrated as Kargil Vijay Diwas.

Kargil Vijay Diwas: Sports fraternity pay tribute to Indian soldiers

Army Chief Bipin Rawat on Thursday said that India should not get carried away by Pakistan prime minister Imran Khan's claim that Islamabad was not involved in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pulwama-attack-confirms-that-india-remains-persistent-target-of-pakistans-terrorism-policy-defence-report-236920">Pulwama terror attack</a>.

"We are aware of the truth. So we don't have to get carried away by any statement. The truth is known to us and our establishment," said General Rawat.

He further said that India has all the proof of Pakistan's involvement in the attack which killed over 40 CRPF personnel.

"Our intelligence agencies had given ample proof of what had happened in Pulwama and that is all I would like to say," he said.

Speaking at a ceremony for commemoration of 20 years of Kargil Vijay Diwas, he also warned Pakistan to never attempt a repeat of the "misadventure" like Kargil war. "It was a big misadventure undertaken by the Pakistan army in 1999. They did not appreciate the will and the intent of the Indian political establishment and the Indian armed forces that we will never allow them to succeed," he said.

On Wednesday, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistans-point-of-view-was-not-appropriately-presented-in-front-of-united-states-imran-khan-238065">Imran Khan</a> had claimed that Pulwama attack was an "indigenous" incident that happened in Kashmir. Khan stressed that Jaish-e-Mohammed was based in Pakistan, but also has a presence in Kashmir, and thus, the attack was an "indigenous thing" that happened in India.

Addressing the Washington-based think-tank US Institute of Peace, Imran Khan also revealed that at least 40 <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistan-will-not-allow-armed-militia-in-the-country-imran-khan-238076">militant groups were operating with its borders</a>. "It is in the interest of Pakistan that we do not allow any armed militia in our country. We have suffered sectarian attacks, we are in the worst situation, our investments are badly affected due to this," said Pakistan PM.

Tension has escalated between India and Pakistan post the terror attack on&nbsp;a CRPF convoy in Pulwama which killed over 40 security personnel. Following which India had launched an airstrike deep inside Pakistan targetting a JeM terror camp in Balakot.

In a major diplomatic win, Indian efforts on the international front were recently rewarded after Pakistan-based terror outfit JeM chief, Masood Azhar, was blacklisted as a global terrorist by the UN Security Council following the gruesome attack. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

Army Chief Bipin Rawat on Thursday said that India should not get carried away by Pakistan prime minister Imran Khan's claim that Islamabad was not involved in Pulwama terror attack.

Army Chief Bipin Rawat on Thursday said that India should not get carried away by Pakistan prime minister Imran Khan's claim that Islamabad was not involved in Pulwama terror attack. "We are aware of the truth. So we don't have to get carried away by any statement. The truth is known to us and our establishment," said General Rawat. He further said that India has all the proof of Pakistan's involvement in the attack which killed over 40 CRPF personnel. "Our intelligence agencies had given ample proof of what had happened in Pulwama and that is all I would like to say," he said. Speaking at a ceremony for commemoration of 20 years of Kargil Vijay Diwas, he also warned Pakistan to never attempt a repeat of the "misadventure" like Kargil war. "It was a big misadventure undertaken by the Pakistan army in 1999. They did not appreciate the will and the intent of the Indian political establishment and the Indian armed forces that we will never allow them to succeed," he said. On Wednesday, Imran Khan had claimed that Pulwama attack was an "indigenous" incident that happened in Kashmir. Khan stressed that Jaish-e-Mohammed was based in Pakistan, but also has a presence in Kashmir, and thus, the attack was an "indigenous thing" that happened in India. Addressing the Washington-based think-tank US Institute of Peace, Imran Khan also revealed that at least 40 militant groups were operating with its borders. "It is in the interest of Pakistan that we do not allow any armed militia in our country. We have suffered sectarian attacks, we are in the worst situation, our investments are badly affected due to this," said Pakistan PM. Tension has escalated between India and Pakistan post the terror attack on a CRPF convoy in Pulwama which killed over 40 security personnel. Following which India had launched an airstrike deep inside Pakistan targetting a JeM terror camp in Balakot. In a major diplomatic win, Indian efforts on the international front were recently rewarded after Pakistan-based terror outfit JeM chief, Masood Azhar, was blacklisted as a global terrorist by the UN Security Council following the gruesome attack. (With inputs from agencies)

We have enough proof of Pakistan's involvement in Pulwama attack: General Bipin Rawat on Imran Khan's remarks

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/indo-bangladesh-border-bsf-constable-injured-in-bombing-incident-234988">Border Security Force</a> (BSF) personnel on Tuesday paid tributes to the jawans who lost their lives in Kargil war.&nbsp;

"I congratulate our security forces on the occasion of the ensuing 20th anniversary of Kargil Vijay Diwas. This year we are celebrating this occasion as Kargil Vijay week from July 20 to 26," Abhinav Kumar, IG of BSF Kashmir Frontier, said at the event at Humhama base camp.

"The BSF played an important role in the Kargil war by informing the army about the intrusions at the Zojila pass in March 1999. The role of our martyred Jawans is immense in securing back our captured peaks in July 1999," he added.&nbsp;

The Border Security Force (BSF) has decided to hold a week-long `Kargil Vijay Diwas` (Kargil Victory Day) celebrations in the border areas to mark the 20th anniversary of India`s victory over Pakistan in the 1999 war.

"Indian Armed Forces defeated Pakistan on July 26, 1999, and this day is celebrated as `Kargil Vijay Diwas`. On the 20th anniversary of the day, the force is organising special programmes in memory of the heroic sacrifices of soldiers," said the BSF in a statement.

"This day comes as a special occasion to acquaint the people of the country with the bravery and valour of the martyrs, who laid down their lives to protect the country," the statement added.

The `<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kargil-vijay-diwas-tri-service-band-performance-postponed-due-to-sheila-dikshit-demise-237368">Kargil Vijay Diwas</a>` on July 26 is being celebrated grandly by the Indian Army this year to rekindle the pride and valour of all the soldiers who took part in `Operation Vijay`.

Border Security Force (BSF) personnel on Tuesday paid tributes to the jawans who lost their lives in Kargil war. "I congratulate our security forces on the occasion of the ensuing 20th anniversary of Kargil Vijay Diwas.

Border Security Force (BSF) personnel on Tuesday paid tributes to the jawans who lost their lives in Kargil war. "I congratulate our security forces on the occasion of the ensuing 20th anniversary of Kargil Vijay Diwas. This year we are celebrating this occasion as Kargil Vijay week from July 20 to 26," Abhinav Kumar, IG of BSF Kashmir Frontier, said at the event at Humhama base camp. "The BSF played an important role in the Kargil war by informing the army about the intrusions at the Zojila pass in March 1999. The role of our martyred Jawans is immense in securing back our captured peaks in July 1999," he added. The Border Security Force (BSF) has decided to hold a week-long `Kargil Vijay Diwas` (Kargil Victory Day) celebrations in the border areas to mark the 20th anniversary of India`s victory over Pakistan in the 1999 war. "Indian Armed Forces defeated Pakistan on July 26, 1999, and this day is celebrated as `Kargil Vijay Diwas`. On the 20th anniversary of the day, the force is organising special programmes in memory of the heroic sacrifices of soldiers," said the BSF in a statement. "This day comes as a special occasion to acquaint the people of the country with the bravery and valour of the martyrs, who laid down their lives to protect the country," the statement added. The `Kargil Vijay Diwas` on July 26 is being celebrated grandly by the Indian Army this year to rekindle the pride and valour of all the soldiers who took part in `Operation Vijay`.

Jammu and Kashmir: Border Security Force pays tributes to Kargil war heroes

A Tri-Service band performance scheduled to be held at India Gate on July 21 has been postponed by a day and now will be held on July 22, said Indian Army said on Saturday.

The Army postponed the performance due to the sudden demise of former Delhi Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit.&nbsp;

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Due to sad Demise of <a href="https://twitter.com/SheilaDikshit?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SheilaDikshit</a>, Tri Services Band Performance at India Gate on 21 July is being postponed to 22 July 19 at same time &amp; venue. No change in Kargil Vijay Run on 21 July at 0600h from Vijay Chowk. Event dedicated to Kargil martyrs. <a href="https://t.co/Lfx3HYuTEU">https://t.co/Lfx3HYuTEU</a>
— ADG PI - INDIAN ARMY (@adgpi) <a href="https://twitter.com/adgpi/status/1152610469233823745?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 20, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"Due to sad Demise of @SheilaDikshit, Tri-Services Band Performance at India Gate on July 21 is being postponed to July 22 at same time and venue. No change in Kargil Vijay Run on July 21 at 0600h from Vijay Chowk. Event dedicated to Kargil martyrs," Indian Army said in a tweet.

The former Chief Minister passed away at the age of 81 due to cardiac arrest.

Delhi government has declared a two-day state mourning to condole Dikshit`s demise.&nbsp;

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Delhi govt has decided to observe a two-day state mourning as a mark of respect in the memory of former Chief Minister and veteran leader Mrs Sheila Dikshit ji. She will be accorded a state funeral.
— Manish Sisodia (@msisodia) <a href="https://twitter.com/msisodia/status/1152582286669303808?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 20, 2019</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

A Tri-Service band performance scheduled to be held at India Gate on July 21 has been postponed by a day and now will be held on July 22, said Indian Army said on Saturday.

A Tri-Service band performance scheduled to be held at India Gate on July 21 has been postponed by a day and now will be held on July 22, said Indian Army said on Saturday. The Army postponed the performance due to the sudden demise of former Delhi Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit. Due to sad Demise of @SheilaDikshit, Tri Services Band Performance at India Gate on 21 July is being postponed to 22 July 19 at same time & venue. No change in Kargil Vijay Run on 21 July at 0600h from Vijay Chowk. Event dedicated to Kargil martyrs. https://t.co/Lfx3HYuTEU — ADG PI - INDIAN ARMY (@adgpi) July 20, 2019 × "Due to sad Demise of @SheilaDikshit, Tri-Services Band Performance at India Gate on July 21 is being postponed to July 22 at same time and venue. No change in Kargil Vijay Run on July 21 at 0600h from Vijay Chowk. Event dedicated to Kargil martyrs," Indian Army said in a tweet. The former Chief Minister passed away at the age of 81 due to cardiac arrest. Delhi government has declared a two-day state mourning to condole Dikshit`s demise. Delhi govt has decided to observe a two-day state mourning as a mark of respect in the memory of former Chief Minister and veteran leader Mrs Sheila Dikshit ji. She will be accorded a state funeral. — Manish Sisodia (@msisodia) July 20, 2019 ×

Kargil Vijay Diwas: Tri-Service band performance postponed due to Sheila Dikshit demise 

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Sunday said his recent visit to Kargil had renewed his confidence and respect for the Indian Army.

Speaking at a function organised by Veterans India here, Singh said, "During my visit to Kargil, I saw the tall peaks which our brave soldiers managed to win back after defeating Pakistani soldiers positioned on them during the Kargil war. I listened to all the stories of how our brave soldiers recaptured Kargil, I heard the names of brave personnel like Captain Vikram Batra who were ready to sacrifice their life for the nation. It made me respect them even more."

The Defence Minister had visited the Kargil War Memorial in Drass on Saturday and paid tributes to soldiers who had laid down their lives in the 1999 war with Pakistan.

Singh was in Jammu and Kashmir for a day-long visit ahead of Kargil Vijay Diwas.

"The courage showed by the Indian Army soldiers in other wars as well to protect the integrity of the nation is unparalleled to that of any other country in my opinion," Singh added.

He said that in his term as Defence Minister of the nation he will try to ensure that the ex-servicemen and serving personnel face no hardships.

"I will try to do whatever I can to ensure there are no questions raised on your honour and dedication and of that of the soldiers serving today," he added.

He also spoke about his decision of going to Siachen immediately after he took charge of his post in the Union Cabinet.

"On the second day of taking charge as Defence Minister, I went on a trip to Siachen after consulting the Army Chief General Bipin Rawat. My reason for undertaking this trip was to understand what it felt like to be a soldier standing on the border before I start taking decisions for their good," he said.

"It helped me make decisions for their welfare, it helped me keep them in the centre before taking any decision for their benefit," Singh added.&nbsp;

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Sunday said his recent visit to Kargil had renewed his confidence and respect for the Indian Army. Speaking at a function organised by Veterans India here, Singh said, "During my visit to Kargil, I saw the tall peaks which our brave soldiers managed to win back after defeating Pakistani soldiers positioned on them during the Kargil war.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Sunday said his recent visit to Kargil had renewed his confidence and respect for the Indian Army. Speaking at a function organised by Veterans India here, Singh said, "During my visit to Kargil, I saw the tall peaks which our brave soldiers managed to win back after defeating Pakistani soldiers positioned on them during the Kargil war. I listened to all the stories of how our brave soldiers recaptured Kargil, I heard the names of brave personnel like Captain Vikram Batra who were ready to sacrifice their life for the nation. It made me respect them even more." The Defence Minister had visited the Kargil War Memorial in Drass on Saturday and paid tributes to soldiers who had laid down their lives in the 1999 war with Pakistan. Singh was in Jammu and Kashmir for a day-long visit ahead of Kargil Vijay Diwas. "The courage showed by the Indian Army soldiers in other wars as well to protect the integrity of the nation is unparalleled to that of any other country in my opinion," Singh added. He said that in his term as Defence Minister of the nation he will try to ensure that the ex-servicemen and serving personnel face no hardships. "I will try to do whatever I can to ensure there are no questions raised on your honour and dedication and of that of the soldiers serving today," he added. He also spoke about his decision of going to Siachen immediately after he took charge of his post in the Union Cabinet. "On the second day of taking charge as Defence Minister, I went on a trip to Siachen after consulting the Army Chief General Bipin Rawat. My reason for undertaking this trip was to understand what it felt like to be a soldier standing on the border before I start taking decisions for their good," he said. "It helped me make decisions for their welfare, it helped me keep them in the centre before taking any decision for their benefit," Singh added.

Kargil visit induced in me new-found respect for Indian Army: Rajnath Singh

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