Today, we commemorate the 25th anniversary of Kargil Vijay Diwas, a day etched in the annals of Indian history with bravery, sacrifice, and patriotism. On this day in 1999, the Indian Armed Forces declared victory over Pakistani infiltrators in the Kargil conflict, a significant triumph that reaffirmed our nation’s unyielding spirit and military prowess.
The Kargil War was a challenging and intense conflict fought in the treacherous terrains of the Himalayas, where our soldiers exhibited unparalleled courage and resilience. The war, which lasted from May to July 1999, saw Indian troops reclaiming the peaks infiltrated by Pakistani forces. This victory did not come easy; it was earned through the blood, sweat, and ultimate sacrifices of our brave soldiers.
Among the many heroes who emerged during the Kargil War were individuals whose stories continue to inspire generations. Four soldiers were awarded the Param Vir Chakra, India’s highest military honor, for their extraordinary valor:
- Captain Vikram Batra: Known for his iconic call sign “Yeh Dil Maange More,” he led his troops to reclaim crucial peaks and made the ultimate sacrifice.
- Lieutenant Manoj Kumar Pandey: Displayed exceptional bravery during assaults, particularly in the Batalik sector, and laid down his life for the nation.
- Rifleman Sanjay Kumar: Showed remarkable courage under fire, single-handedly neutralizing enemy positions and ensuring his company’s advance.
- Grenadier Yogendra Singh Yadav: Despite severe injuries, he continued fighting and played a crucial role in the capture of Tiger Hill.
Their bravery, along with countless others, ensured the safety and honor of our nation.
Kargil Vijay Diwas is not just a day of remembrance but also a day of reflection on the indomitable spirit of our armed forces. It reminds us of the strategic importance of vigilance and preparedness in safeguarding our borders. The lessons learned from Kargil have significantly influenced India’s defense strategies and policies, ensuring that we are better equipped to handle any future challenges.
As we mark this silver jubilee, it’s essential to honor not only the soldiers who laid down their lives but also their families, who showed immense strength and support. The nation owes a debt of gratitude to these heroes and their loved ones for their sacrifices.
Let us take a moment to remember the sacrifices made and celebrate the spirit of Kargil Vijay Diwas.
As we mark the 25th anniversary of Kargil Vijay Diwas, we pay tribute to the courage and sacrifice of our soldiers who displayed unmatched bravery during the Kargil War. Their valor continues to inspire, and to delve deeper into their extraordinary stories, explore these impactful books:
- Nimbu Saab: The Barefoot Naga Kargil Hero
Authors: Neha Dwivedi & Diksha Dwivedi
Publisher: HarperCollins India
ISBN: 9789362133687
This book highlights Captain Neikezhakuo Kenguruse, known as ‘Nimbu Saab,’ who led his men barefoot under extreme conditions during the Kargil War. Discover the bravery that earned him the Maha Vir Chakra and learn about his remarkable legacy. Order Now - Rambo
Author: Col Ashutosh Kale
Publisher: Srishti Publishers
ISBN: 9789395192507
Explore the life of Major Sudhir Walia, a maverick Special Forces officer who played a crucial role in the Kargil conflict. His audacious actions and leadership, which earned him the Ashok Chakra, are vividly depicted in this compelling account. Order Now - Kargil Review Committee Report and Indian Media-Military Relationship: Journey and Impact
Author: Kriti Singh
Publisher: KW Publishers Pvt Ltd
ISBN: 9788195285853
This book provides an in-depth analysis of the Indian media-military relationship during the Kargil War and the impact of the Kargil Review Committee Report. A vital read for understanding the dynamics between media and military during conflicts. Order Now - Kargil Ki Ankahi Kahani
Author: Harinder Baweja
Publisher: Prabhat Prakashan Pvt. Ltd.
ISBN: 9789353224967
This Hindi book offers a detailed narrative of the Kargil War, shedding light on the challenges and heroism of Indian soldiers. Harinder Baweja’s fearless reporting brings forth the true essence of this historic conflict. Order Now - Kargil
Author: V.P. Malik
Publisher: Rajpal and Sons
ISBN: 9788170286820
General V.P. Malik’s account of the Kargil War addresses the military strategies and Pakistan’s deceitful tactics. It also offers a rebuttal to false claims made by Pakistani figures, making it an essential document for understanding the conflict. Order Now - Surprise, Strategy and Vijay: 20 Years of Kargil and Beyond
Authors: V.K. Ahluwalia & Narjit Singh
Publisher: Pentagon Press
ISBN: 9789386618948
This book provides a comprehensive look at the Kargil conflict, from battle strategies to individual stories of valor. It also explores emerging challenges and future preparedness of the Indian Armed Forces. Order Now - COOMAR PB
Author: Jaishree Laxmikant
Publisher: Sabre & Quill
ISBN: 9789391970895PB
A tribute to Major Sudhir Walia, this book captures his life beyond the battlefield, reflecting his values, bravery, and the personal sacrifices he made. A deeply personal account that honors his legacy. Order Now - From Hydaspes to Kargil: A History of Warfare in India from 326 BC to AD 1999
Author: Kaushik Roy
Publisher: Manohar
ISBN: 9788173045431
This historical synthesis covers the evolution of warfare in India, contextualizing the Kargil War within a broader military history. A valuable read for those interested in military strategy and history. Order Now - The Kargil Story (Paperback)
Author: Deepak Surana
Publisher: Srishti Publishers
ISBN: 9789390441839
This book offers a detailed account of key battles in the Kargil War, featuring personal anecdotes from over a hundred soldiers. It provides a vivid portrayal of the bravery and camaraderie that defined the conflict. Order Now - Param Vir Chakra: Vikram Batra
Author: Maj. Gen. Ian Cardozo
Publisher: Roli Books
ISBN: 9788173045431
This book honors Captain Vikram Batra, a symbol of bravery in the Kargil War. His dynamic leadership and ultimate sacrifice are detailed in this moving account of his heroic actions. Order Now - Param Vir Chakra: Sanjay Kumar
Author: Maj. Gen. Ian Cardozo
Publisher: Roli Books
ISBN: 9788193626009
Explore the story of Rifleman Sanjay Kumar, another hero of the Kargil War, whose valor led to his posthumous Param Vir Chakra award. This book highlights his extraordinary courage and contributions. Order Now - Param Vir Chakra: Manoj Pandey
Author: Maj. Gen. Ian Cardozo
Publisher: Roli Books
ISBN: 9788174369000
Read about Lieutenant Manoj Pandey’s bravery in the Kargil War, which earned him the Param Vir Chakra. His daring actions and leadership are celebrated in this compelling narrative. Order Now - Param Vir Chakra: Grenadier Yogender Singh Yadav
Author: Maj. Gen. Ian Cardozo
Publisher: Roli Books
ISBN: 9788195124848
Read about Grenadier Yogender Singh Yadav’s remarkable bravery during the Kargil War, which earned him the Param Vir Chakra. His courageous actions and leadership in the harshest conditions are highlighted in this compelling narrative. Order Now - A Soldier’s Diary: Kargil The Inside Story
Author: Harinder Baweja
Publisher: Roli Books
ISBN: 9788193750155
Explore a detailed diary-format account of the Kargil War from a front-line commander’s perspective. This book offers insight into the challenges faced and the battles fought during the conflict. Order Now - Kargil
Author: Rachna Bisht Rawat
Publisher: Prabhat Prakashan
ISBN: 9789390315185
Discover the stories of soldiers and their families during the 1999 Kargil War, highlighting their bravery and sacrifices. This book provides a heartfelt tribute to the 527 soldiers who lost their lives. Order Now - Nation First
Author: Shikha Akhilesh Saxena
Publisher: Hachette
ISBN: 9789357311663
Gain a unique perspective on the Kargil War through the eyes of army wives. Shikha Akhilesh Saxena shares the emotional and practical challenges faced by military families during the conflict. Order Now - Dateline Kargil
Author: Gaurav Sawant
Publisher: NATRAJ
ISBN: 9788181581808
Experience the Kargil War through a gripping on-ground reportage by Gaurav Sawant, who provides a vivid narrative of the battles and heroics witnessed during the conflict. Order Now - From Kargil to the Coup: Events that Shook Pakistan
Author: Nasim Zehra
Publisher: Sang-e-Meel Publications
ISBN: 9789693531374
Explore the Kargil War’s impact on Pakistan, examining the motivations and internal dynamics behind the operation. Nasim Zehra delves into the broader implications for Indo-Pakistani relations. Order Now - The Kargil Girl
Author: Flt Lt Gunjan Saxena (retd) | Kiran Nirvan
Publisher: Penguin Random House
ISBN: 9780143451068
Read Flight Lieutenant Gunjan Saxena’s inspiring memoir as the first female Indian Air Force officer to serve in a war zone. Her contributions during Operation Safed Sagar are highlighted in this story of courage. Order Now - Kargil: Untold Stories from the War
Author: Rachna Bisht Rawat
Publisher: Penguin Random House
ISBN: 9780143445845
Uncover untold stories of the Kargil War through interviews with survivors and families of martyrs. Rachna Bisht Rawat offers a poignant look at the bravery and sacrifices made by soldiers and their loved ones. Order Now - Kargil Mein Vijyant
Author: V.N. Thapar
Publisher: HIND POCKET BOOKS PRINTS
ISBN: 9780143452157
This biography of Captain Vijyant Thapar details his heroic role and sacrifice during the Kargil War. The book captures his spirit and legacy, as told through the perspectives of his family and Neha Dwivedi. Order Now - Pak Proxy War: A Story of ISI, bin Laden and Kargil
Author: Rajeev Sharma
Publisher: Kaveri Books
ISBN: 9788174790354
Rajeev Sharma’s book examines Pakistan’s tactics during the Kargil War, focusing on the role of ISI and Osama bin Laden. It explores the strategic and geopolitical dimensions of the conflict. Order Now - The Tiger of Drass: Anuj Nayyar, 23, Kargil Hero
Authors: Meena Nayyar & Himmat Singh Shekhawat
Publisher: HarperCollins
ISBN: 9789354229268
This biography recounts Captain Anuj Nayyar’s bravery in securing the Drass sector during the Kargil War. The book honors his heroism and sacrifice, earning him the Maha Vir Chakra. Order Now - Kargil: From Surprise to Victory
Author: V.P. Malik
Publisher: HarperCollins
ISBN: 9788172239671
V.P. Malik’s book provides a comprehensive account of the Kargil War, from the initial surprise of the Pakistani intrusion to India’s strategic victory. It offers insights into the military and strategic lessons learned. Order Now - Despatches from Kargil
Author: Srinjoy Chowdhury
Publisher: Penguin Random House
ISBN: 9780140295924
In Despatches from Kargil, Srinjoy Chowdhury, who covered the 1999 Kargil War for the Statesman, offers an engrossing account of the conflict. Through vivid storytelling, Chowdhury describes the harsh conditions and bravery of Indian soldiers battling entrenched enemies in icy peaks. His firsthand reporting brings to life key battles and the heroism of figures like Vijayant Thapar and Yogendra Singh Yadav. This book provides a powerful and moving portrayal of the war, seen through the eyes of a journalist amidst the chaos. Order Now - LETTERS FROM KARGIL
Author: Diksha Dwivedi
Publisher: Juggernaut
ISBN: 9789386228437
Letters from Kargil shares the 1999 Kargil War through soldiers’ letters and diaries, offering a personal and emotional view of the conflict. Diksha Dwivedi, a martyr’s daughter, provides a moving tribute to their bravery. Order Now - Vijyant at Kargil: The Biography of a War Hero
Authors: V.N. Thapar & Neha Dwivedi
Publisher: Penguin Random House
ISBN: 9780143450252
Vijyant at Kargil recounts the life and heroism of Captain Vijyant Thapar, martyred in the Kargil War at twenty-two. Co-authored by his father and Neha Dwivedi, it highlights his bravery and legacy through family anecdotes. Order Now
The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi paid homage to the bravehearts who made the supreme sacrifice in the line of duty on the occasion of 25th Kargil Vijay Diwas in Ladakh today. He also attended the Shraddhanjali Samaroh. Read more.
Kargil Vijay Diwas is celebrated every year on 26th July to rekindle the pride and valour of the soldiers who took part in Operation Vijay. The day marks the victory of Indian soldiers in capturing the mountain heights that were occupied by the Pakistani Army on Jul 26, 1999 known as the Kargil War.
