Kargil Vijay Diwas 2024: History, significance and all you need to know about Kargil heroes
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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 markedas a tribute to the sacrifice and bravery of the Indian soldiers who defended our nation. This year the nationmarks the 25th anniversary of this momentous event in Indianhistory, 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 beginsduring aperiod of heightened tensionsbetween India and Pakistan, followingthe war in 1971, which led to the creation of Bangladesh.
The tensions between the two nations were also running high after each of themtested their nuclear weapons in 1998.
In the winter of1998-1999,Pakistani forces secretly infiltrated the strategic locations of the Dras and Batalik regions in Ladakhto observe the movement along India's NH 1A and potentiallygain control. This was despitePakistansigningthe Lahore Declaration in February 1999 to resolve the Kashmir issue.
At first, the Indian Armymistook the infiltrators for extremist terrorists, but they later realised that the threatwas much bigger and launched a counterattack against thePakistani forces. India mobilised about 200,000 soldiers, marking the beginningof the Kargil War.
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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 unityand a way to show gratitude toour armedforces for keeping Indian borders safe from threats.
Heroes of the Kargil War
Kargil Vijay Diwasis 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.
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Lieutenant Manoj Kumar Pandey:LieutenantPandey 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:MajorAdhikari (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 formof valour and their sacrifice will always be remembered and honoured.
(With inputs from agencies)
