Kargil Vijay Diwas: Commemorates India's victory in the Kargil War
Introduction:
Kargil Vijay Diwas, celebrated on 26th July every year in India, holds immense significance as it marks the victory of the Indian Armed Forces over Pakistani forces during the Kargil War in 1999. The conflict, which escalated due to tension and separatist activities in Kashmir, saw a daring infiltration and occupation of strategic positions by the Pakistani military. This article delves into the historical context, the events leading to the war, and the subsequent Operation Vijay, which culminated in the liberation of Kargil's mountain tops, honoring the sacrifices of the brave soldiers who laid down their lives for the nation.
The Prelude to Kargil War:
Following the Indo-Pakistani War of 1971, both India and Pakistan experienced a period of relatively fewer direct armed conflicts. However, growing tensions due to separatist activities in Kashmir and nuclear tests conducted by both nations in 1998 created a belligerent atmosphere. In an attempt to resolve the Kashmir conflict peacefully, the Lahore Declaration was signed in February 1999, envisioning a bilateral solution. However, the situation escalated as elements of the Pakistani Armed Forces initiated covert operations in the region.Operation Badri and the Infiltration:
During the winter of 1998-1999, Pakistani troops and paramilitary forces infiltrated into Indian territory across the Line of Control (LOC), code-named "Operation Badri." The objective was to sever the link between Kashmir and Ladakh and compel Indian forces to withdraw from the Siachen Glacier, thereby pushing India to negotiate the broader Kashmir dispute. Pakistan believed that escalating tension would draw international attention to the Kashmir issue, facilitating a swift resolution.The Unfolding of Kargil War:
Initially, Indian troops assumed the infiltrators were jihadis and predicted their eviction within a few days. However, subsequent discoveries of infiltration along the LOC, along with differences in tactics employed, revealed the larger scale of the attack. The ingress area occupied was estimated to be between 130 km2 - 200 km2. India responded with Operation Vijay, a massive mobilization of 200,000 troops, to reclaim the occupied positions and counter the Pakistani incursion.The Triumph of Operation Vijay:
Operation Vijay saw the determined efforts of the Indian Armed Forces to regain control of the Kargil heights. After intense battles and sacrifices, the war came to an official end on July 26, 1999, with the eviction of Pakistan Army troops from their occupied positions. This significant victory is celebrated as Kargil Vijay Diwas.Honoring the Heroes:
Kargil Vijay Diwas is a day of remembrance and gratitude towards the brave soldiers who laid down their lives for the country. All over India, ceremonies are held to pay homage to the fallen heroes. The national capital, New Delhi, witnesses the Prime Minister leading the tribute at Amar Jawan Jyoti, situated at the India Gate. Various functions are organized nationwide to commemorate the contributions of the Indian Armed Forces.
0 Comments