Why do we celebrate Kargil Vijay Diwas?

July 26, 2022

Kargil Vijay Diwas, also known as Kargil Victory Day, is celebrated on 26th July every year in India. The day commemorates India’s victory in the Kargil War against Pakistan in 1999. The conflict was fought for over two months in the high-altitude mountainous region of Kargil in Jammu and Kashmir.

Background of the Kargil War

The Kargil War was a result of Pakistan’s military infiltration into Indian territory in the Kargil district of Jammu and Kashmir. Pakistani troops disguised as militants occupied key positions in the mountainous region of Kargil, which India believed was a part of its own territory. The Indian Army responded by launching ‘Operation Vijay’ to evict the infiltrators and reclaim the lost territory.

The conflict lasted for over two months and was fought in extremely challenging conditions. The mountainous terrain, coupled with the high altitude, made it difficult for the soldiers to fight. The temperature dropped to sub-zero levels, making it hard for the troops to survive. Despite the challenges, the Indian Army managed to push back the infiltrators and reclaim the territory. The conflict officially ended on July 26, 1999, with India emerging victorious.

Celebrations on Kargil Vijay Diwas

Kargil Vijay Diwas is celebrated across India to pay tribute to the brave soldiers who laid down their lives in the line of duty. The day is marked by various events and ceremonies, including wreath-laying ceremonies, parades, and flag-hoisting ceremonies.

In the national capital, New Delhi, the celebrations are marked by a grand ceremony at the Amar Jawan Jyoti, the memorial to the Indian soldiers who lost their lives in the wars. The Prime Minister of India pays homage to the soldiers by laying a wreath at the memorial. The President of India also addresses the nation on this day.

The Kargil war memorial in Dras, Jammu and Kashmir, also hosts a commemorative ceremony on this day. The memorial is a tribute to the soldiers who fought and lost their lives in the Kargil War. It is open to the public and serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by the brave soldiers who fought for their country.

Lessons learned from Kargil War

The Kargil War was a turning point in the history of India’s military operations. It taught the Indian Army several lessons, including the need for better intelligence, better equipment, and the importance of the air force in high-altitude warfare. The war also highlighted the need for better coordination between various branches of the armed forces.

The Kargil War was also a wake-up call for India to modernize its armed forces. The government began investing heavily in the defense sector, and the Indian Army went through a major modernization program. The war also led to the creation of the post of Chief of Defense Staff, which is responsible for coordinating the operations of the three branches of the armed forces.

The Kargil War also highlighted the need for greater vigilance on the borders. India has since stepped up its surveillance along the Line of Control and has taken several steps to prevent any infiltration by enemy troops.

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