SYLLABUS

GS-3: Border Areas, Security Challenges and Management Thereof.

Context:

MY Bharat (Mera Yuva Bharat), under the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, organised the 'Kargil Vijay Diwas Padyatra' in Drass, Kargil, to commemorate the 26th anniversary of India’s victory in the 1999 Kargil War.

More on the News

• The president and prime minister of India paid tribute to the Kargil war soldiers who sacrificed their lives during the war.

About the Kargil War

• The Kargil War was fought between India and Pakistan from May to July 1999 in the Kargil district of Ladakh.
• The Kargil conflict began when Pakistani forces occupied Indian positions along the Line of Control, prompting India to launch Operation Vijay to reclaim the territory.
• The Indian Air Force supported the operation through Operation Safed Sagar.
• India successfully repelled the intruders and regained control of the occupied positions.
• Victory was declared on 26 July 1999, which is now observed annually as Kargil Vijay Diwas.
• Over 500 Indian soldiers lost their lives; Pakistani casualties were estimated between 700 and 1,000.
• Indian soldiers were honoured for their bravery with 4 Param Vir Chakras, 9 Maha Vir Chakras and 55 Vir Chakras

Significance of Kargil War Diwas

• Symbol of National Unity: Reinforces a sense of national pride, patriotism, and unity among citizens across India.
• Military Valour: Highlights the Indian Armed Forces' bravery, resilience, and tactical brilliance in high-altitude warfare under extreme conditions.
• Strategic Importance: Marks India's success in protecting its territorial integrity against a covert intrusion and reasserts control over critical positions in Ladakh.
• Youth Inspiration: Inspires younger generations to serve the nation and understand the value of freedom and sovereignty.

Source:

https://theprint.in/sport/sports-minister-to-commemorate-kargil-war-anniversary-with-padyatra-in-drass/2701770/ https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kargil-vijay-diwas-political-leaders-pay-tribute-to-kargil-heroes/article69857429.ece https://www.pib.gov.in/PressNoteDetails.aspx?NoteId=154940&ModuleId=3#:~:text=On%2026%20July%2C%20the%20tricolour,and%20unity%20that%20define%20India.