Kargil Vijay Diwas is a solemn reminder of their sacrifices and a celebration of their valour, serving as a unifying moment of national pride and gratitude. This year, in 2024, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to visit Drass in Ladakh on July 26 to honour the 25th anniversary of Kargil Vijay Diwas.

Annually celebrated on July 26, this year, Kargil Vijay Diwas in 2024 will be observed on Friday, July 26, marking the 25th anniversary of India’s victory in the Kargil War.

The history of Kargil Vijay Diwas dates back to the war between India and Pakistan in early 1971, which led to the formation of East Pakistan as an independent nation called Bangladesh.

The two countries continued to clash with each other post this, including a fight to dominate the Siachen Glacier by deploying military outposts on the surrounding mountain ranges. They even tested their nuclear weapons in 1998, resulting in a high-time animosity between the two.

So, to maintain peace and stability and resolve tension, they called for a bilateral peaceful settlement of the Kashmir issue by signing the Lahore Declaration in February 1999.

However, the Pakistani soldiers and militants infiltrated the Indian side of the Line of Control (LoC) in the northern Kargil district of Jammu and Kashmir, occupying strategic positions at high altitudes, to sever the link between Kashmir and Ladakh and to create unrest in the region.

The infiltration was discovered in May 1999, prompting the Indian Army to launch Operation Vijay and leading to the Kargil War. This conflict occurred between India and Pakistan in the Kargil district of Kashmir and along the Line of Control (LOC) from May to July 1999.
Over two months, intense battles took place in the difficult mountainous terrain. The Indian Army managed to drive out Pakistani intruders and successfully recaptured Tiger Hill and other strategic positions as part of Operation Vijay.

The Indian soldiers secured this victory after a three-month conflict on July 26, 1999. However, the war resulted in casualties on both sides, with the Indian forces losing nearly 490 officers, soldiers, and jawans.

In remembrance of India’s accomplishment in the war, Kargil Vijay Diwas is celebrated every year on July 26 to honour the bravery and sacrifice of Indian soldiers.

The observance of Kargil Vijay Diwas is also a powerful symbol of national unity and patriotism. The Kargil War brought together people from all corners of India, unified in their support for the Armed Forces. This collective spirit of resilience and solidarity continues to be celebrated on Kargil Vijay Diwas, fostering a sense of national pride among citizens.

Additionally, the stories of bravery and heroism from the war inspire future generations, instilling in them a sense of duty and dedication to the nation. Kargil Vijay Diwas ensures that their sacrifices are not forgotten, serving as a solemn tribute to the heroes who defended the nation’s sovereignty.