Kargil Vijay Diwas 2024: Historical Significance of the Day

Kargil Diwas is celebrated on the 26th of July to rekindle the pride and valor of the soldiers who were part of Operation Vijay. The day is significant in history as it marks the victory of Indian soldiers in capturing the mountain heights that were occupied by the Pakistani army on 26th July 1999. It was known as the Kargil War. This armed conflict lasted for nearly 60 days at Kargil in Ladakh. The country lost more than 500 soldiers in this war.

Every year, this day is a chance to pay tribute to the Indian soldiers who were martyred in the war initiated by Pakistan.

Remembering the Heroic Saga: Kargil Vijay Diwas History

In Kargil War, the Indian Army successfully evicted Pakistani intruders who captured Tiger Hill and the other posts on the Indian side of the LOC (line of control) illegally. The Government of India responded with Operation Vijay. It was a mobilization of 200,000 Indian troops. The war came to an end officially on July 26, 1999, with the eviction of Pakistan Army Troops from their occupied positions. The day has been marked as Kargil Vijay Diwas in Indian History. 

This day holds great significance in the history of India. It is an opportunity for all citizens to salute and remember the bravery, courage, and unwavering dedication of the Indian armed forces. The Indian army protects the sovereignty and integrity of the nation. The prime minister of India pays homage to soldiers at the Amar Jawan Jyoti at India Gate every year, and several functions are organized all over the country to commemorate the contributions of the Indian army, especially on this day.

It is a day to express gratitude to the soldiers who sacrificed their lives to safeguard India’s borders and protect the people.

Remembering the Fallen: Kargil War Heroes Who Made the Ultimate Sacrifice

The official death count of the Indian soldiers was 527 soldiers, whereas, on the Pakistan side, the death count was between 357 and 453. India also lost one of its bravest soldiers, Captain Vikram Batra, during the Kargil War. This day honors Kargil’s superheroes. Captain Vikram Batra was awarded the Param Vir Chakra, India’s highest gallantry honor after his death. A movie named Shershaah was released that depicted the life story of Captain Vikram Batra in detail and was widely liked by the audience.

Important Facts Know About Kargil War and Kargil Heroes

In 2024, India will be celebrating its 25th Kargil Diwas. It is also known as Kargil War or Kargil Conflict. Indian soldiers fought against the Pakistani intruders who crossed the Line of Control into Indian territory on this day in 1999. The war lasted from May 8, 1999, to July 26, 1999, when India completed Operation Vijay successfully.

Some interesting and important facts about the Kargil Vijay Diwas are:

• Pakistan denied its involvement in the war and blamed Kashmiri militants initially. But with time, the statement from the Prime Minister of Pakistan Nawaz Sharif, and the Chief of the Army of Pakistan Pervez Musharraf indicated their involvement.

• Secretly Pakistan sent its forces to the Indian territories under the name “Operation Badr” and captured the Kargil area.

• Indian Air Force destroyed Pakistan’s illegal posts successfully and additionally, on July 26, India evicted the Pakistani troops from the territory.

• The agenda of the intrusion was to cut Ladakh off from Kashmir and starve Siachen Valley residents to compel India to accept the terms of Pakistan.

• Approximately 30,000 troops moved into the Kargil area along with the special forces to secure Kargil under Operation Vijay against Pakistan.

• This operation was launched twice by the Indian Army in its history.

• The first Operation Vijay was launched in 1961 that led to the capture of Goa, Anjediva islands, and Daman and Diu.

• The second Operation Vijay was launched in 1999.

• Operation White Sea, or Safed Sagar was launched during the Kargil War in 1999.

• Along with the Indian Army and Indian Air Force jointly, the Indian Navy put pressure on Pakistan through Operation Talwar.

• After a significantly long battle, Kargil War came to an end on July 26, 1999. Indian soldiers removed Pakistani intruders from their occupied positions, making it a remarkable day in the history of Kargil Vijay Diwas.

Conclusion

Kargil Vijay Diwas is a significant and solemn annual celebration that honors the brave Kargil War Heroes. It serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by the armed forces and a tribute to their valor and dedication in safeguarding the nation. The day also offers an opportunity to reflect on the history of the Kargil War and its crucial lessons, promoting a sense of patriotism and unity among the citizens.