24th Kargil Victory Day Celebrated on 26 July

The 24th Kargil Victory Day was celebrated on 26 July 2023 with great fervor and pride. This day holds immense significance as it commemorates the victory in the Kargil war, a decisive conflict that took place 24 years ago. The Kargil War Memorial in Dras, Ladakh, witnessed a two-day festival organized by the Indian Army on 25 and 26 July to honor the sacrifice of the 527 brave soldiers who laid down their lives for the nation. Among them were the valiant Captain Vikram Batra, Lieutenant Manoj Kumar Pandey, Major Rajesh Singh Adhikari, Major Vivek Gupta, and many others who exhibited exemplary courage and dedication.

24th Kargil Victory Day celebrated on 26 July

The Historical Background: Kargil War

The Kargil War, fought between May and July 1999, occurred along the Line of Control (LOC) in the Kargil district, now a part of the Union Territory of Ladakh. The war emerged despite the Lahore agreement, signed between India and Pakistan, which aimed to resolve the Kashmir issue peacefully. However, Pakistani troops, under Operation Badr, violated the agreement by infiltrating the Indian side of the Line of Control with around 5,000 soldiers.

The intrusion by Pakistani forces caught India by surprise, leading to the immediate response of the Indian Army. On May 3, 1999, the Kargil War began with Pakistan capturing strategic positions in the rocky and mountainous region of Kargil at a high altitude. To counter this aggression, the Indian Army launched 'Operation Vijay,' aimed at driving back the intruders and reclaiming the occupied territories.

The Role of the Indian Armed Forces

The Indian Army, supported by the Indian Air Force, played a pivotal role in the success of 'Operation Vijay.' The Indian troops displayed remarkable bravery and determination as they engaged in intense battles at challenging altitudes and harsh terrains. The Indian Air Force's 'Operation White Sea' involved air attacks that significantly bolstered the efforts of the ground forces. The coordinated efforts of the Indian Armed Forces ultimately led to the eviction of the Pakistani intruders, ensuring victory for India.

The Commemoration of Kargil Vijay Diwas

On 26 July every year, India celebrates Kargil Vijay Diwas to pay tribute to the gallant soldiers who made the supreme sacrifice for the nation during the Kargil War. The day is marked by various events, including wreath-laying ceremonies, parades, and memorial services held at the Kargil War Memorial in Dras.

In 2023, the Kargil Vijay Diwas program in Dras witnessed the presence of distinguished guests, including Defense Minister Rajnath Singh, Principal Defense President General Anil Chauhan, the heads of the three armies, and Deputy Chief of Ladakh Brigadier (retired) B.K. D. Mishra. Their participation exemplified the government's commitment to honoring the valor and sacrifice of the fallen soldiers.

The Kargil War Memorial

The Kargil War Memorial in Dras stands as a symbol of bravery and patriotism. It pays homage to the brave soldiers who fought valiantly during the Kargil War. The memorial site serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by the Indian Armed Forces to safeguard the nation's sovereignty and territorial integrity.

FAQs

1. What is Kargil Vijay Diwas?

   Kargil Vijay Diwas is an annual celebration in India to commemorate the victory in the Kargil War, which takes place on 26 July every year.

2. Who were the key participants in the Kargil Vijay Diwas program in 2023?

   Defense Minister Rajnath Singh, Principal Defense President General Anil Chauhan, the heads of the three armies, and Deputy Chief of Ladakh Brigadier (retired) B.K. D. Mishra participated in the Kargil Vijay Diwas program in Dras in 2023.

3. What is the significance of the Kargil War Memorial?

   The Kargil War Memorial in Dras serves as a tribute to the brave soldiers who sacrificed their lives during the Kargil War and symbolizes the nation's gratitude towards their bravery.

4. How many soldiers lost their lives during the Kargil War?

   A total of 527 brave soldiers laid down their lives while defending the nation during the Kargil War.

5. What were the main objectives of 'Operation Vijay' during the Kargil War?

   'Operation Vijay' aimed to drive back the Pakistani intruders and reclaim the territories occupied during the Kargil War.