The Indian Army has begun commemorative events ahead of the 26th anniversary of Kargil Vijay Diwas, which marks India’s victory over Pakistani forces during the 1999 Kargil conflict in Jammu and Kashmir.
The Army on Thursday shared moments from “Operation Vijay,” the military operation during which Indian forces reclaimed strategic positions infiltrated by Pakistani troops along the Line of Control. The conflict, which lasted from May to July 1999, ended with India regaining control over key mountain peaks, including Tiger Hill.
A post from the Army’s public information department on social media platform X said: “Kargil Vijay Diwas 2025. 30 Days to Go… 30 Days to Remember. A tribute to the unmatched valour of our bravehearts. Their courage echoes through the heights of Kargil, forever etched in the soul of India.”
Kargil Vijay Diwas is observed annually on July 26.
This year’s commemorations come months after India carried out airstrikes under “Operation Sindoor,” targeting nine alleged terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir, along with 11 airbases, according to Indian defence officials.
As part of its outreach initiative, the Indian Army is reaching out to the families of 545 soldiers who were killed in the 1999 Kargil conflict. Army teams are visiting households across 25 states, two Union Territories, and Nepal to deliver letters of gratitude, commemorative mementoes, and detailed information on welfare benefits extended by the central and state governments. The visits also aim to gather feedback on unresolved issues or support gaps faced by the families.
In one such visit this month, Army officers presented a memento to the parents of Captain Vijayant Thapar, who was killed in the conflict. The meeting took place at their residence in Noida, northern India.
The Army also plans to collect personal memorabilia from the families of the deceased to preserve at the Kargil War Memorial in Dras. The commemorations will conclude with a wreath-laying ceremony at the memorial on July 26.
The Kargil War began when Indian troops detected Pakistani forces occupying mountain posts on the Indian side of the Line of Control. After weeks of high-altitude fighting, Indian forces regained control of the territory, officially declaring victory on July 26, 1999.
-IANS
