The Indian Army on Tuesday commemorated July 14, 1999, as the decisive turning point of the Kargil War, recalling the day when Indian forces regained control of most strategic heights and Pakistan announced the withdrawal of its troops following sustained military setbacks.
In a post on X, the Fire and Fury Corps said that by July 14, 1999, the Indian Army had recaptured most of the strategic heights in the Dras, Kargil and Batalik sectors through coordinated operations, exceptional courage and relentless determination.
“Operation Vijay: India Declares Victory, Pakistan Announces Withdrawal,” the Corps said, adding that the enemy’s plans had collapsed under the Indian Armed Forces’ sustained offensive, backed by heavy artillery fire and determined infantry assaults.
The Army recalled that on July 14, 1999, then Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee addressed the nation and declared Operation Vijay a success, paying tribute to the courage, sacrifice and resolve of the Armed Forces.
It also noted that Pakistan announced the withdrawal of its forces on the same day amid mounting military setbacks and increasing international diplomatic pressure.
The Army said that although operations continued to clear the remaining intruders, July 14 marked the defining moment that affirmed India’s victory in the Kargil War.
As part of the 27th anniversary of Operation Vijay, the Indian Army also organised an expedition to Gun Hill (Point 5140), a strategically significant feature overlooking Dras, to honour the courage, sacrifice and professionalism of the soldiers who fought during the conflict.
According to the Army, Point 5140 served as a key enemy stronghold and observation post during the war. Its capture was crucial in restoring control over the Dras sector and denying the enemy dominance over surrounding heights.
The Army also recalled that before the assault on Point 5140, troops captured adjoining features, including Hump, which was secured by 18 Grenadiers on the night of June 13–14, 1999. Another important position, Rocky Knob, was captured by 13 Jammu and Kashmir Rifles with support from direct firing by Bofors guns, paving the way for subsequent operations.
India observes Kargil Vijay Diwas every year on July 26 to commemorate the successful culmination of Operation Vijay, through which the Indian Armed Forces recaptured strategic heights from Pakistani intruders and safeguarded the country’s territorial integrity.
(ANI)
