Understanding Kargil Vijay Diwas

  • Celebrated every year on July 26, Kargil Vijay Diwas commemorates India's significant victory in the 1999 Kargil War against Pakistan.
  • It pays tribute to Indian soldiers' bravery and sacrifice during the war, which marked the first military confrontation in a nuclearized South Asia.

World Kargil Diwas

 

Unfolding the Background

  • The event followed a series of geopolitical conflicts and tensions between India and Pakistan, post the major 1971 conflict, which led to the creation of Bangladesh.
  • During the winter of 1998-1999, Pakistani armed forces covertly trained and deployed troops across the Line of Control, leading to a well-organised
  • Operation Safed Sagar, managed by the Indian Air Force, supported ground operations.
  • The Indian Navy’s Operation Talwar ensured maritime security and deterrence.

Post-Kargil War Reforms

  • The Kargil War led to a comprehensive review of India’s security structure, resulting in increased transparency and vital reforms.
  • Post-war reforms included the creation of the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), establishment of Tri-Service Commands, implementation of intelligence reforms and counter-terrorism measures.
  • The war also accelerated the need for indigenous satellite navigation systems like the Indian Regional Navigation Satellite System (IRNSS).
  • The need for a holistic doctrine to address multi-dimensional proxy wars was highlighted, which paved the way for doctrinal changes like the Cold Start Doctrine. 
  • India launched Operation Vijay in response, deploying over 200,000 troops to the region to counter the incursion.

The Significance and Impact of Kargil Vijay Diwas

  • Kargil Vijay Diwas remembers and honours supreme sacrifices made by Indian soldiers during the war.
  • The day has a high significance as it globally recognized the Line of Control as the default border between India and Pakistan, reinforcing India's stance on Jammu and Kashmir's territorial integrity.
  • It marked a turnaround in Indo-US relationships as India was regarded as a responsible nuclear actor, thus solidifying its diplomatic gains.
  • Moreover, it accentuated India's military capabilities and its ability to manage and respond to regional conflicts effectively.

Diving into the Associated Operations

  • Operation Vijay aimed to clear the infiltrators from the Indian side of the LOC.