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Kargil Vijay Diwas: Commemoration, Key Facts, and Post-War Impact
Context:
This year, on July 26th, India celebrated the 25th Kargil Vijay Diwas to commemorate the victory of the Kargil war of 1999.
More on news:
- Kargil Vijay Diwas is celebrated annually on July 26 to honour Indian soldiers who sacrificed their lives during the Kargil War of 1999.
- It commemorates India’s victory over Pakistan and the successful conclusion of Operation Vijay.
- This year, Kargil Vijay Diwas marked the 25th anniversary of the victory.
- The day acknowledges the Indian Armed Forces’ reclamation of territories in the Kargil district of Jammu and Kashmir.
Overview of The Kargil War:
- The Kargil War was a conflict between Pakistan and India from May to July 1999.
- On 03 May 1999, the local people first reported the presence of unidentified personnel at an army unit at Banju Headquarters of Kargil sector.
- The War broke out when the Pakistani Army and tribal militias crossed the Line of Control (LoC) into Indian territory, targeting the Kargil district of Ladakh in Jammu and Kashmir.
- The Pakistani operation, code-named “Operation Badr,” aimed to cut the link between Kashmir and Ladakh, isolate Indian troops on the Siachen Glacier, and force India to negotiate on the Kashmir dispute.
- The Indian military operation to drive out the intruders was named “Operation Vijay.” The war unfolded in three phases:
- identifying and reclaiming strategic positions, locating and flushing out Pakistani troops, and maintaining control to prevent recapture of positions.
- Intense battles occurred in mountainous terrain from May to July 1999.
- Operation Safed Sagar, initiated on May 26, 1999, involved airstrikes by the Indian Air Force to target enemy positions and support ground operations.
- The Indian Navy conducted a significant deployment in the Arabian Sea to deter any potential expansion of the conflict and demonstrate readiness to address broader escalations.
- On July 11, Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif announced the withdrawal of militants. The Indian Army successfully recaptured the peaks including Tiger Hill.
- The war ended on July 26, 1999.
Heroes of the Kargil War:
- The Kargil War was one of the most challenging due to its high-altitude setting, with some posts at over 18,000 feet.
- The conflict involved extensive use of air power, infantry, and artillery, resulting in several hundred casualties from both sides.
Dras War Memorial / Kargil War Memorial:
- Located in Dras, Ladakh .
- Built by the Indian Army to honour soldiers who lost their life in the Kargil War.
- A big wall lists the names of all the martyrs.
- The Amar Jawan Jyoti, or the eternal flame, burns brightly as a tribute to their sacrifices.
- Annual ceremonies held on Kargil Vijay Diwas.
Post-War Reforms:
- GoM Report and KRC: The Group of Ministers (GoM) and Kargil Review Committee (KRC) led to significant changes in the national security system, including improved intelligence cooperation and new military commands.
- Defence Intelligence Agency (2002): Established for integrated intelligence inputs.
- National Technical Research Organisation (2004): Created for technical intelligence gathering.
- Structural Changes: The Indian Army restructured its command and control, creating new corps and integrating new doctrines for both conventional and sub-conventional conflicts.
- Joint Command: The establishment of Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) and integrated commands aimed at improving coordination and efficiency.
- Defence Reforms: Introduction of the Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA), Defence Procurement Board, and joint theatre commands to streamline operations and procurement.
- Agnipath Scheme: Aimed at making the armed forces leaner while maintaining combat effectiveness.
Kargil Vijay Diwas: Significance and Celebrations:
- Kargil Vijay Diwas serves as a powerful symbol of national unity and patriotism, uniting people across India in support of the Armed Forces.
- The collective spirit of resilience and solidarity from the Kargil War continues to be celebrated on this day, fostering national pride among citizens.
- Stories of bravery and heroism from the conflict inspire future generations, encouraging a sense of duty and dedication to the nation.
- Ceremonies and commemorative events are held nationwide to remember and celebrate their sacrifices.
Kargil War Less Known Facts:
- Israel supplied mortars, ammunition, laser-guided missiles, and surveillance drones, which helped India to regain control.
- Live Broadcast: The Kargil War was the first live-streamed war on Indian television.
- Public witnessed real-time conflict, aided by UAVs provided by Israel.
- Shift in U.S. Foreign Policy: President Bill Clinton condemned Pakistan’s aggression. Marked the start of increased U.S.-India engagement and alliance.
