Kargil Vijay Diwas: 26 years on, remembering Indian soldier's valour and courage who turned tide of war
PTC News Desk: This year marks the 26th anniversary of Kargil Vijay Diwas, a solemn and proud moment in India’s history that honours the courage and sacrifice of the nation’s armed forces.
The day commemorates the heroic triumph of 1999, when Indian soldiers, braving extreme conditions and intense enemy fire, successfully reclaimed the strategic heights of Kargil. On July 26, the Indian tricolour once again soared over the rugged terrain of Ladakh — a powerful symbol of the nation’s bravery, resilience, and unwavering spirit.
The conflict began when Pakistani infiltrators crossed into Indian territory along the Line of Control in the Kargil-Dras-Batalik sector of Jammu and Kashmir, driven by hostile intent. What ensued was a grueling 60-day military operation under some of the harshest conditions imaginable—freezing temperatures, treacherous rocky slopes, thin mountain air, and continuous enemy shelling.
U.S. Army officer MP Acosta described the Kargil War as a test of endurance, calling it a "combination of thin air, cold weather, and rugged mountains," noting that these extreme conditions had a "dramatic effect" on both troops and equipment.
Despite the odds, Indian soldiers displayed extraordinary bravery, fighting with the tenacity of mountain lions. From Tololing to Tiger Hill, each recaptured position stood as a testament to their unshakable courage and deep sense of camaraderie.
- With inputs from agencies
