essay on kargil war 1999

Essay on Kargil War

500 words essay on kargil war.

Kargil war was a very difficult time that our country went through. Furthermore, it was a crisis situation that ensued a feeling of nationalism , patriotism, and unity among every Indian. This essay on Kargil War will throw light on the various developments of the war and its after-effects.

Background of the War

Kashmir is a beautiful region that resides in an extremely mountainous area, containing some of the highest peaks in the world. Unfortunately, this amazing land has remained a constant battleground between the two countries of India and Pakistan.

The dispute began from the First Kargil War in 1947-1948 which led to the establishment of the LOC, line of control. The LOC still divides the land of Kashmir between India and Pakistan.

As part of the Simla Agreement in 1972, there was an agreement that neither India nor Pakistan would contest the border by making use of military means. Since the agreement, both countries began guarding the border heavily for the majority of the year. During the exceedingly cold winter months, both the Indian and Pakistani guards abandon their posts, only to return back in the spring.

However, during the winter of 1998-1999, a surprise attack took place from the Pakistan army and it became successful in crossing the LOC and into India’s portion of Kashmir. Moreover, slowly and gradually, they went on capturing one Indian outpost after another and held their position in Kargil.

In February 1999, at the same time as the winter invasion, the Lahore Declaration was being signed between India and Pakistan which was based on peace. After a few months, the Kargil war began between the two countries. Furthermore, a series of bloody battles were fought between the two nations of India and Pakistan.

The battles posed a huge challenge for the Indian forces as they had to fight on difficult mountainous terrain.  In spite of this challenge, the Indian soldiers showed amazing bravery. After a long struggle, the Indian army became successful in pushing back the Pakistani forces across the line of control.

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Rise of Nationalism

By July 14, 1999, there were heavy causalities on both sides. However, the sacrifice of Indian soldiers was not in vain. This great struggle of the Indian army has carved a place in the heart of every Indian.

The entire Kargil war was a time of tension and nervousness for the Indian people. It infused the spirit of national pride in every Indian. Most noteworthy, it served as an opportunity of unifying all the Indians together irrespective of caste, colour, religion, language etc.

Conclusion of the Essay on Kargil War 

The Kargil war has become an unforgettable event in the history of India. Nevertheless, this was an event that brought about feelings of patriotism in the hearts of every Indian like never before. The brave struggle of the Indian soldiers will continue to be an inspiration for all the citizens of this country.

FAQs For Essay on Kargil War 

Question 1: When did the dispute over the region of Kashmir originally began between India and Pakistan?

Answer 1: The dispute between India and Pakistan over Kashmir began from the First Kargil War in 1947-1948, which led to the establishment of the LOC, line of control. Furthermore, the land of Kashmir is still divided by the LOC between India and Pakistan.

Question 2: What is the concept of nationalism?

Answer 2: Nationalism refers to a political principle, which upholds the congruency of the political and national unit. Furthermore, nationalism involves a strong sense of shared national identity among the people of a nation.

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• Academia - Kargil war: causes and consequences
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• Brookings - How the 1999 Kargil conflict redefined US-India ties

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Kargil War , conflict in May–July 1999 between Pakistan and India in Kargil , a sector of the disputed Kashmir region located along the line of control that demarcates the Pakistan- and India-administered portions of Kashmir. The sector has often been the site of border skirmishes between the two countries, and the Kargil War was the largest and deadliest of these clashes.

The conflict began in early May when the Indian military learned that Pakistani fighters had infiltrated the Indian-administered territory. After detecting the infiltration, India ordered its army and air force to push back the intruders, who included regulars of the Pakistani army. The bitter fighting took place in harsh terrain 5,000 metres (16,400 feet) above sea level while intensive diplomatic activity took place elsewhere. Pakistani Foreign Minister Sartaj Aziz visited New Delhi on June 12, but his talks with Indian External Affairs Minister Jaswant Singh failed to produce results. Meetings of military leaders from both countries followed, and in the weeks ahead the international community asserted the need for Pakistan to return to the line of control. Eventually, on July 11, Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif announced that the militants would withdraw, and India gave them until July 16 to do so. Sporadic fighting continued even after the deadline, however. Several hundred combatants were killed on each side during the conflict.

Essay on Kargil War

Students are often asked to write an essay on Kargil War in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

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100 Words Essay on Kargil War

Introduction.

The Kargil War, also known as Operation Vijay, was a significant conflict between India and Pakistan in 1999. It took place in the Kargil district of Kashmir.

Causes of the War

The war began when Pakistani soldiers crossed the Line of Control, the border separating the two countries. They aimed to cut off the highway connecting Kashmir with the rest of India.

The Conflict

Indian forces, supported by the air force, fought bravely. The war lasted for more than two months, with heavy casualties on both sides.

The war ended with India regaining control of all territories. The Kargil War highlighted the importance of vigilance and readiness in maintaining national security.

250 Words Essay on Kargil War

The prelude to the kargil war.

The Kargil War, also known as Operation Vijay, was a significant confrontation between India and Pakistan in the Kargil district of Kashmir from May to July 1999. The war was instigated by the infiltration of Pakistani soldiers disguised as Kashmiri militants into positions on the Indian side of the Line of Control (LoC).

The Conflict and International Response

The war, characterized by the harsh mountain warfare and high altitude battles, resulted in high casualties on both sides. The Indian forces launched ‘Operation Vijay’ to flush out the infiltrators. Eventually, under international pressure and due to the strategic advantage of Indian forces, Pakistan withdrew its forces.

Implications of the Kargil War

The Kargil War led to a significant paradigm shift in the South Asian security environment. It strained Indo-Pak relations and marked the first direct conflict between the two nations since they became nuclear powers. The war also highlighted the importance of strategic heights and brought to forefront the issues of proxy warfare and cross-border terrorism.

The Kargil War stands as a testament to India’s military prowess and the strength of its democratic institutions. It also underscores the complex nature of Indo-Pak relations and the volatile security scenario in South Asia. The war is a stark reminder of the need for peaceful dialogue and resolution of the Kashmir issue, to avoid such conflicts in the future.

500 Words Essay on Kargil War

The Kargil War, also known as Operation Vijay, was a significant armed conflict between India and Pakistan that took place between May and July 1999 in the Kargil district of Kashmir and elsewhere along the Line of Control (LOC). The war is remembered for its strategic and tactical surprises, the scale of the high-altitude warfare, and the number of casualties on both sides.

The Prelude

The course of the war.

The war began with the covert infiltration of Pakistani troops across the LOC. The Indian Army, aided by the Indian Air Force, retaliated by launching a massive military offensive on the infiltrators. The high-altitude warfare in the rugged terrains of Kargil posed significant logistical challenges. However, the Indian forces adapted and gradually recaptured most of the peaks that Pakistan had seized.

International Diplomacy and Conclusion of the War

The international community, led by the United States, played a crucial role in de-escalating the conflict. Under immense international pressure and faced with the Indian military’s determined response, Pakistan was forced to withdraw its forces across the LOC. The war officially came to an end on July 26, 1999, which is celebrated in India as Kargil Vijay Diwas.

The Aftermath

The legacy of the kargil war.

The Kargil War holds a unique place in the annals of military history due to the nature of high-altitude warfare and the valor displayed by the Indian Army. The war also catalysed a shift in public perception about national security, leading to a renewed focus on strategic defence policy and military preparedness.

In conclusion, the Kargil War was a significant event in the history of Indo-Pakistani relations. It not only highlighted the unresolved issues between the two nations but also underlined the importance of effective diplomacy and military preparedness in maintaining peace and security in the region.

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How the 1999 Kargil conflict redefined US-India ties

Subscribe to the center for middle east policy newsletter, bruce riedel bruce riedel senior fellow - foreign policy , center for middle east policy , strobe talbott center for security, strategy, and technology.

July 24, 2019

The Kargil conflict set off a flurry of diplomatic activity that ultimately positioned the United States and India for their productive relationship today, writes Bruce Riedel. A version of this piece was originally published in the Hindustan Times .

The Kargil war between May and July 1999, part of the broader conflict between India and Pakistan over the region of Kashmir, was a seminal turning point in American foreign policy with India. President Bill Clinton’s diplomatic intervention in the war, and his high-stakes summit with Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, set the stage for Clinton’s visit a year later to India—the first by an American president in over 20 years—and for the warm engagement between Washington and New Delhi, which has persisted till today.

Before the Kargil incursion, the United States was preoccupied with non-proliferation concerns in South Asia, especially after the Indian nuclear tests. Strobe Talbott’s dialogue with Jaswant Singh was an important channel of communications, but it was devoted almost entirely to curbs on nuclear weapons. The focus was on securing India’s adherence to the Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty.

When the U.S. determined that Pakistan had deliberately violated the Line of Control near Kargil, Clinton did not hesitate to blame Pakistan for risking a broader war. For the first time, an American administration was siding publicly with India against Pakistani aggression. The Pakistani generals who had planned the Kargil incursion, led by Pervez Musharraf, had badly misread the likely American reaction.

Sharif insisted on a summit in Washington with Clinton on July 4, 1999. Clinton was adamant that Pakistani troops had to withdraw to their old positions behind the Line of Control. If not, Washington would blame Pakistan for the war. He warned Sharif that he would also speak out about Pakistan’s coddling of al-Qaida and Osama bin Laden. The American intelligence community had told the president that Pakistan was flirting with nuclear war. It was perhaps the most important and intense meeting of his presidency. The normally soft negotiator who usually sought compromise was tough and firm. I had never seen him more concentrated.

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The outcome of the Kargil war altered the substance of the Talbott mission. The focus moved to conflict prevention. The Musharraf coup that ousted Sharif reinforced the new direction of the Indo-American dialogue. The stage was set for Clinton’s multi-day trip to India in early 2000 and his few hours in Islamabad. The contrast was striking.

Clinton’s trip to India not only broke the decades-old famine of presidential travel to India; his two successors followed in his steps and visited India. The security dialogue between Washington and New Delhi has deepened and strengthened enormously. The current administration has also committed to a strong relationship with India, but is so dysfunctional that it has been largely absent from the subcontinent.

Clinton came into office in 1993 determined to rebuild U.S. relations with India, which had been in disrepair since the mid-1960s. Like his predecessor and idol, John F. Kennedy, Clinton believed India was bound to be a major power in the future—and a democratic one as well. He was determined to visit India, but a succession of short-lived governments in New Delhi and the distraction of other events kept the trip from happening.

The nuclear tests in May 1998, first by India and then by Pakistan, seemed to be the final blow to the president’s plans. The Kargil conflict changed the equation. The president and his team were determined to exploit the opportunity. Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee was equally determined to be engaging and a warm host.

The turning point was the Kargil war 20 years ago. The trajectory of America’s engagement with India was set. Hopefully it will remain on course.

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• Kargil Chronicles

Kargil War: Key Lessons learned from Kargil Conflict

Go beyond the dates. explore the human cost, strategic decisions, and lasting impact of the kargil war..

In the summer of 1999, the mountainous region of Kargil in Kashmir erupted into a fierce but brief conflict between India and Pakistan. Though the war only lasted a few months, its impact on both nations resonated for much longer.

This short but intense fight served as a harsh wake-up call, shattering any illusions of lasting peace in the region. It forced the countries to look inward and critically evaluate their military strategies and preparedness. The war left an undeniable scar, reminding everyone of the ever-present tensions simmering beneath the surface.

In the aftermath of Kargil, both sides scrambled to adapt. India, jolted by the initial Pakistani success, focused on improving its intelligence gathering and high-altitude warfare capabilities. Pakistan, facing international pressure and military setbacks, grappled with the consequences of its actions. The Kargil War, though brief, became a turning point, forever altering the security landscape of the region.

Indian Army soldiers patrolling near a bunker in Kargil during the 1999 Kargil war. pic.twitter.com/WhsQsSBkLY — Aryāṃśa (@arya_amsha) July 8, 2022

"I remember we were called back from summer vacations, it was 4 AM when dad left for #KargilWar , we were half asleep the last time we met him," Daughter of #KargilWarHero late Major CB Dwivedi talks about her father & life after his supreme sacrifice in line of duty. pic.twitter.com/1Za8SpOZa3 — A. Bharat Bhushan Babu (@SpokespersonMoD) July 23, 2024

The Need for Vigilance:  

In the Kargil War, India realized its intelligence agencies hadn't been keeping a close enough eye on things. Pakistan managed to sneak soldiers across the Line of Control, the border between India and Pakistan and set up positions in the mountains without India noticing for a long time. This surprise attack gave Pakistan a big advantage at the beginning of the war.

Source: The dissertation of MP Acosta

India learned a tough lesson from this. Since then, they've put a lot of effort into improving their intelligence gathering. They've invested in technology like aeroplanes and drones that can watch the border from above. 

The Defence XP website mentions: "This is the only disadvantage that could have prevented the Kargil War from happening. According to reports, the Pakistan Army wanted to capture Kargil and block Highway No 1 connecting Srinagar to Leh since June 1998. This highway further connects Leh with Siachen Glacier where about 3,000 Indian Army personnel are stationed. And for this, the Pakistan Army had deployed its 5,000 soldiers in the bunkers of the Indian Army on the peaks of Kargil. Before 1999, the Indian Army would have vacated these 130 bunkers in winter and returned in May during the summer season."

Mountain Warfare and Adaptability: 

The Kargil War unfolded amidst a harsh and unforgiving environment. Fighting at such high altitudes, exceeding 16,000 feet in some areas, presented a unique set of challenges for both sides. The Indian military, traditionally equipped and trained for combat in the plains, faced a critical obstacle – adapting to the unforgiving terrain of Kargil.

A clip from my video on #Kargil where I delve into what General @Vedmalik1 , the Ex Indian Army Chief, and his military confided in me about their preparation. 🇮🇳 It reveals the dedication and preparation that went into securing India’s victory! #25YearsofKargilVijay pic.twitter.com/TZhYPRfDce — Maroof Raza (@themaroofraza) July 9, 2024

Technological Modernisation and Self-Reliance: 

The Kargil War showed some weaknesses in India's military equipment. Many of the weapons and tools the soldiers used were old and outdated.  This, along with a slow process for getting new equipment, made it hard for India to fight back at first.

This war highlighted the importance of having modern military equipment.  After Kargil, India made a big push to modernize their military.  They invested a lot of money in buying new, advanced weapons and communication systems.  They also focused on getting better equipment for fighting at night, which is especially important in the mountains.

The Human Cost of War and the Importance of Military Leadership:  

#25YearsofKargilVijay …Successful capture of #TigerHill led to a huge recovery of Arms,Ammunition, warlike and other stores that the Pakistani Intruders had on the top of Tiger Hill. Post the capture of Top, made use of the cosy tent at the Coy Headquarters of enemy to stay… pic.twitter.com/0lwHlpM71Q — Brig Khushal Thakur (Retd) (@khushal1954) July 10, 2024

Diplomatic and Regional Implications:  

The Kargil War had significant diplomatic and regional repercussions. Pakistan's attempt to internationalise the Kashmir issue gained limited traction. The international community, wary of a wider conflict, urged both sides to resolve the issue bilaterally. 

The Legacy of Kargil: A Call for Peace and Preparedness

Source: The Gallantry Awards Org

The Kargil War, though a brief conflict, holds enduring lessons. It serves as a reminder of the importance of robust military preparedness, effective intelligence gathering, and inter-service cooperation. It highlights the human cost of war and underscores the need for dialogue and peaceful conflict resolution. The Kargil conflict continues to shape military strategy and regional security dynamics in South Asia. By learning from the mistakes of the past and investing in a future of peace, India and Pakistan can work towards building a more secure and stable future for the region.

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The Kargil War: India and Pakistan 20 Years Later

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Parsing the war’s consequences, implications, and relationship to 2019’s Balakot crisis.

In February 2019, the threat of war in South Asia appeared imminent for the first time in over a decade. For the first time since 1971, India and Pakistan traded cross-border airstrikes; they also engaged in conventional clashes not seen since the 1999 Kargil War.

The latest crisis was triggered by a vehicle-borne IED attack on a convoy of paramilitary forces in the Pulwama district of Indian-administered Kashmir. India attributed the terrorist attack to the Pakistan-based group Jaish e-Mohammad (JeM) and on February 26, claimed to successfully conduct airstrikes on a JeM training camp in Pakistani territory around Balakot, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The next day, Pakistan’s air force conducted a retaliatory strike across the Line of Control (LoC) that resulted in an air battle, with the downing of an Indian fighter jet and the capture of an Indian Air Force (IAF) pilot.

Exact details are still lost in the fog of crisis and several questions remain: How much of the Pulwama terrorist strike was planned out of Pakistan? What operational and intelligence security failures allowed India to fall prey to the attack in one of its most heavily guarded regions? What did India actually hit at Balakot and how long did they manage to fly in Pakistan airspace undetected? What was the intended target of Pakistan’s retaliatory strike and did it lose an F-16 in the process?

While the speedy return of the captured IAF pilot opened a path to de-escalation, Balakot became the latest addition to a growing list of India-Pakistan crises. The Balakot attack occurred in the lead-up to the Indian general elections, and at a time of growing uncertainty over how the two countries and the international community would react to escalation on the subcontinent. It also served as a timely reminder of instability in South Asia and the dangers of India and Pakistan’s tenuous relationship.

Poignantly, May marks the 20th anniversary of the Kargil War – the first actual hot war between nuclear powers – in which India and Pakistan fought each other for nearly three months in the Kargil Sector of the disputed Kashmir territory. This latest clash underscores the importance of closely reviewing what happened at Kargil in order to better understand and anticipate the contours of strategy and escalation in future India-Pakistan conflicts.

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1999 Kargil War

• Last Updated : 24-Sep-2022

• The Indian Army was able to create the points of incursion based on information from local shepherds and deployed four divisions to take back the strategic peaks to defend its main supply line in Kashmir. Operation Vijay was the name of India's operation to recapture their territories. The Pakistani soldiers had put themselves at higher altitudes, giving them an advantage in battle, as they were able to fire at advancing Indian troops. 
• They fought under a temperature of minus 10 degrees for about 40-60 days. The Indian Army had captured strategic peaks like Tiger Hill and Tololing until July 4, 1999. The war saw the use of FH-77B artillery guns by Bofors. Though it is said that the U.S. denied GPS assistance to India, Israel supported India with arms and equipment and supplied UAVs (Unmanned Aerial Vehicles or Drones).
• The Indian Air Force also used MiG-27 and MiG-29 against Pakistani troops. Several Pakistani targets were targeted with R-77 missiles with the aid of the MiG-29. The IAF MiG-21s and Mirage 2000 were widely used in Operation Safed Sagar .
• The international community has criticized Pakistan for allowing its paramilitary forces and rebels to cross the Line of Control (LOC) . Pakistan has also attempted to internationalize the Kashmir issue by connecting the Kargil crisis to the broader Kashmir dispute, but on the world stage, such diplomatic position has found only few supporters. Pakistan was described as the aggressor and denounced by the US and the West, including the G8 nations.
• India was also supported by the other G8 nations and condemned the Pakistani breach of the LoC. China, Pakistan's longtime ally, did not interfere in Pakistan's favor, insisting on a pullout of LoC forces and peacefully resolving border issues. The ASEAN Regional Forum also backed India's stance on the inviolability of the LOC.
• Pakistan asked the US to interfere, but then-President Bill Clinton refused to do so. PM Nawaz Sharif managed to pull back the remaining soldiers from Indian territory in the face of increasing foreign pressure. 
• In his post-war autobiography, Clinton claimed that "Sharif's steps were perplexing" because the Indian prime minister had traveled to Lahore to facilitate bilateral talks aimed at solving the Kashmir issue and "by crossing the Line of Control, Pakistan had ruined the bilateral talks." He congratulated Indian restraint for not crossing the LoC and escalating the conflict into an all-out war.
• During the Kargil conflict, one of the key fears of the international community was that both neighbours had access to weapons of mass destruction (WMD) and that it could have contributed to nuclear war if the war escalated. In 1998, both countries had their nuclear capabilities tested. In 1974, India performed its first test, while the 1998 test was the first-ever nuclear test in Pakistan. A statement was made by the Pakistani foreign secretary warning that an escalation of the restricted conflict could lead Pakistan to use "any weapon" in its arsenal. Many such vague remarks by officials from both countries have been seen as an imminent nuclear crisis.
• When the US received intelligence that Pakistani nuclear warheads were being transported to the border, the essence of the India-Pakistan dispute took on a more sinister proportion. Bill Clinton attempted to dissuade Nawaz Sharif, Pakistan's prime minister, from nuclear brinkmanship and even threatened Pakistan with dire consequences. Sharif directed the Pakistani army to vacate the Kargil heights, sensing a worsening military situation, political isolation and the threats of greater conventional and nuclear war.
• Furthermore, there was reported use of chemical and even biological weapons in the threat of Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD). Pakistan has accused India of using chemical weapons against Kashmiri fighters and explosive weapons such as napalm. India, on the other hand, revealed, among other guns, a cache of gas masks as evidence that Pakistan may have been prepared to use non-conventional weapons. 
• The success of India in the Kargil war was due to its successful mixture of diplomacy and the use of force. India was under sanctions in the aftermath of the 1998 nuclear tests. Resolution 1172 of the United Nations Security Council condemned its actions, and when 1999 came around, multilateral and bilateral sanctions had India on the back foot. It was in this context that India chose not to cross the line of control (LoC) . The support of the international community was seen as a potential "major force multiplier" as it needed international opinion to be in its favour, much like the support of the domestic audience.
• Kargil was India's first war on TV. In favour of Indian action, this rallied public opinion. During the war, donations of blood to the Indian Red Cross Society in New Delhi increased. Also, donations to the welfare funds of soldiers rose exponentially. Awareness and solidarity were generated by images of wounded soldiers, coffins, and bereaved families. In addition, for the Indian armed forces, the use of the media was seen as a booster.
• By the end of June, if it did not withdraw to its side of the LoC, the U.S. government, the European Union, and the G-8 all threatened sanctions on Pakistan. There was international pressure building up. In the Organization of Islamic Conference (OIC), even Pakistan's traditional allies chose to water down its resolutions against India.

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• The Last War of the 20th Century

Where is Kargil? - Kargil War 1999

Kargil was a tehsil of Ladakh before the time of partition. It is a region of people who speak different languages and religious groups. It is a region that is separated by mountains. Kargil district is located from Srinagar, about 205 Km. There is a continental climate in the district. Summers are cool, and winters are long and chilly, with temperatures dropping to -48°C.

Kargil War Information

Kargil war history.

The Kargil war refers to an armed conflict fought between India and Pakistan. It is fought on the land of Kargil, the district of Jammu and Kashmir, and on the line of control. It is an Indian Military Operation named 'Operation Vijay'. 

The main cause of the war was that Pakistani soldiers sneaked the LoC on the Indian side. In the two states of Kashmir, they serve as the de facto border between them. In starting, Pakistan did not accept this thing that they were the ones who did this injustice and blamed the Kashmiri people. Still, later the involvement of Pakistan forces will be cleared by the statements of Pakistan's Prime Minister and Chief of Army Staff. Later the Indian Air Force helped the Indian Army, and they again captured the main positions of the LoC. Pakistani Forces stepped backwards after facing international opposition.

The war ended with the victory of India, but both countries had to pay a high price for this. The total death toll in this war on the Indian side stood at 527, whereas, on the Pakistan side, it was said to be somewhere between 357 & 453. Both sides got experience fighting at hard altitudes. After this, Gallantry Awards were given to the great war heroes, and the country also increased its defence budget.

Kargil War Memorial

The Indian Army built 'The Kargil War Memorial' in Dras in Tololing Hill's foothills. About 5 km from the city centre across Tiger Hill, which commemorates the martyrs of the Kargil War. A poem named "Pushp ki Abhilasha", written by Makhanlal Chaturvedi, is engraved on the gateway of the memorial. It is a renowned neo-romantic Hindi poem of the 20th century. The names of those who lost their lives in the war are inscribed on the memorial walls, and visitors can read them. There is a museum located near the memorial. It was established to celebrate Operation Vijay. In the museum, pictures of Indian Soldiers, important documents regarding war, and recordings are kept. The equipment of Pakistani war gear and the official emblems of the army from the Kargil War. To celebrate India's victory in the war, the giant national flag was hoisted at the Kargil War Memorial on Kargil Vijay Diwas.

Kargil War Heroes

Many laid down their lives for their country in this war, including captain Vikram Batra, Captain Anuj Nayyar, and Grenadier Yogender Yadav. Many others also risked their lives and gave India a victory in the war. They are:

Captain Amol Kalia had to capture point 5203. For this, they started their mission at night with their teammates and reached the mountain before daybreak. Enemies hit him, but still, he continued his task.

Captain Neikezhakuo Kenguruse was awarded Mahavir Chakra for their bravery in the war. The words written on the medal are "He displayed conspicuous gallantry, indomitable resolve, grit, and determination beyond the call of duty and made the supreme sacrifice in the face of the enemy, in true traditions of the Indian Army."

Lt Keishing Clifford Nongrum reached the vertical top cliff, and their task was to capture point 4812 in the Batalik Sector. The enemy was targeting them continuously with automatic fire. He did not even think about his own life and charged towards them through the fire zone.

During Operation Vijay, Captain Jintu Gogoi was tasked to evade enemy soldiers in the Batalik sub-sector near LOC. Even with injuries, he showed great leadership and bravery and excellence.

Naik Brij Mohan Singh, the 30-member team's Commander, was tasked to capture Sando Top. He not only killed the enemy's soldiers but also saved his team.

Captain Jerry Prem Raj was tasked with launching an assault in the Drass Sector on Twin Bumps. He didn't even stop when he was fired on by the enemy and continued firing on the enemy. He was awarded the prestigious Vir Chakra.

Captain Shashi Bhushan Ghidiyal showed the effective presence of his mind when the company commander got injured, and he took command & started directing the team to assault the company.

This list does not end here. There were some soldiers whose contribution to the country got saved in the Kargil War.

Conclusion  

To wrap up, Kargil War ended with a victory for India but at a huge price. It was said to be the fourth war between India and Pakistan. It was the last war that happened between India and any other country. We learned about the Kargil war date, war heroes, history, its reasons & results, etc. After this war, the Government of India formed the Kargil Review Committee on July 29, 1999, "to examine the sequence of events and make recommendations for the future", whose report was submitted on January 7, 2000, during the Atal Bihari Vajpayee Government. Time has passed, but the brave service of the Kargil Heroes can never be forgotten.

FAQs on The Last War of the 20th Century

1. What was the reason for the Kargil War?

In 1999, Pakistani started "Operation Badr" and entered Indian territory with their troops. They wanted to negotiate with India on the Kashmir dispute. They wanted to cut the connections between Kashmir and Ladakh.

2. Who started the Kargil War?

The Kargil war was also known as the Kargil Conflict. It was a 60-day long war that was fought between India and Pakistan. It was from May 3, 1999, to July 26, 1999. The war took place because Pakistani armed forces entered Indian territory. They show them as the locals of Kashmir. But later, when Indians detected them. They did not accept the fact and blamed the locals. But after that, the statement of the Prime Minister and Chief of Army Staff showed the involvement in this. The Pakistani made the plan of attacking for so long. It made plans in 1998.

3. Who won the Kargil War?

After the fight continued for 60 days. On the last day, July 26, 1999, the Indian Army completed "Operation Vijay" successfully. India won over Pakistan. On July 26, 1999, the day was marked as the "Kargil Vijay Diwas". After that, Pakistani withdrew from the areas of the Line of Control.

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• Military Technology and Warfare in the Kargil War

Military Technology and Warfare in the Kargil War  Blogs Home

• 26 Jul 2023

Every year on July 26, Kargil Vijay Diwas , also known as Kargil Victory Day, is observed to remember India's momentous victory over Pakistan in the Kargil War in 1999. As part of "Operation Vijay" , the Indian Army successfully drove Pakistani invaders out of Tiger Hill and other locations on the Indian side of the Line of Control (LoC) during this conflict. In this blog, the aspects of Kargil warfare, including the military technology used would be explored.

The Kargil War: Causes and Significance of the Region

In the summer of 1999, the Kargil War took place between India and Pakistan. It started as early as May 8 and ceased by July 14. This war left hundreds of soldiers dead and thousands of them wounded, leaving Pakistan defeated. The war was initiated by Pakistan and is believed that the major motive behind this incursion was to bring the issue of Kashmir to the forefront.

The terrain of LoC which is rugged and gets heavy snowfall was exploited for this purpose. This was based on the belief that the Indian Army would not be able to track the intrusion or even if it does, it would be difficult to move due to heavy snowfall. This calculated move was based on the intention to gain access to strategic locations across the LoC, which would provide Pakistan with a dominating position. Kargil is the second largest town in the Ladakh Region and is near Srinagar, Leh and other such areas. Being on the Srinagar-Leh National Highway, the region of Kargil is vital for transport and trade.

Military Strategies and Planning

The Pakistan military aimed to carry out invasions and used the challenges of the terrain to its advantage. Since the region gets a heavy snowfall, the Pakistan army assumed that the Indian army would not be able to respond or even if it does, the reaction would be slow. The terrain where "Operation Vijay'' was battled, lies at a high altitude and the temperature goes to even -60°C. The intrusions included both the Mujaheddin groups and members of the Pakistan Army's Northern Light Infantry. (NLI)

The Indian Army had a variety of challenges in front of them. For starters, the region of Kargil is cold, and it is not hospitable. Regardless, by May 26, 1999, the Indian army began its operation called "Operation Vijay". The army moved towards the positions under intrusion by the Pakistan army. The tactics employed by the Pakistani Army included camouflaging which allowed them to conceal themselves and surprise attack. Although initially, they denied involvement, the Pakistani Army used the intrusions and the high altitude to their advantage.

Role of Technology in the Kargil War

To gain an advantage and conquer this difficult battle on challenging terrain, the Indian armed forces used technology that was capable of surveillance and communication. Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) and Unmanned Aerial Surveillance (UAS) systems made it possible for the army to know the movements of enemy troops and organise themselves accordingly. Communication and technologies are important elements that can determine the course of the war.

There is no doubt that synchronisation and effective coordination are possible only when there is communication between the troops on the ground, with the other units as well as from their places of command, the headquarters. At the same time, the Indian army had to make sure that the communication systems employed were secure and for which they relied on satellite systems.

Air Power and Aerial Operations

The Air Force played a crucial role in supporting the Indian Army to fight against intruders. An operation whose code name was "Operation Safed Sagar" was launched by the Air Force. The biggest challenge, however, was the terrain of the Kargil and the fact that IAF had to stay within the Line of Control.

In high-altitude warfare, the risk is immense. Kargil being at 4500-5500 metres above sea level, the aircraft was supposed to be at an altitude of 6100 metres. Ground attack aircraft MiG -21s, MiG-23s, MiG-27s, Mirage 2000 and Jaguars were deployed for this purpose. It is said that the airstrikes determined the conflict. Strikes on the enemy camps severely limited their ability to make necessary supplies. This was the first time the Indian Air Force fought in a limited war zone and at such a high altitude.

Infantry Operations and Role of Artillery and Missile Systems

The War of Kargil is a perfect example of why training is necessary for troops to operate effectively in mountainous regions. The infantry had to acclimatise by the harsh coldness, as low as -60°C. The coordination among infantry, and artillery was particularly beneficial to counter the intruders and leave them defeated. With coordinated efforts, the first ridgeline fell which was the Tololing in the Drass Sub-sector and subsequently, the Tiger Hill was reclaimed. The Gun-Hill, previously known as Point 4875 was recaptured by July 7, 1999.

The Regiment of Artillery played a very important role to deal with enemy troops through their accuracy in firepower. Along with the infantry, the artillery made sure to respond to Pakistan's intrusion even though the latter had never been deployed at a height that Kargil had. True to their motto of 'Sarvatra Izzat-O-Iqbal' the Regiment of Artillery showed the honour and glory it carries.

As Maj Gen Jagjit Singh writes in the Indian Defence Review, ‘’Direct shooting, particularly by the Bofors, spelt terror amongst the defenders and had a devastating effect in the destruction of enemy bunkers’’. Furthermore, he informs that the Indian artillery fired over 2,50,000 shells, bombs and rockets during the Kargil conflict and approximately 5,000 artillery shells, mortar bombs and rockets were fired daily from 300 guns, mortars and MBRLs. The maximum number of casualties suffered on the enemy side was due to the artillery and their firepower.

Intelligence Gathering and Surveillance

UAVs often referred to as drones were used to ensure continuous surveillance and for the know-how of the enemy troops. This is especially beneficial as unmanned vehicles allow us to avoid the risk of losing Indian troops. The images captured by satellites as well as the intelligence gathered from other sources was a vital element in the planning and execution of plans by the Army, Navy and Air Force. Furthermore, the interception of the communication between the troops of the enemy with their units allowed them to know the plans of their troops.

Logistics and Infrastructure Challenges

It is imperative in a war for the army to maintain a supply chain system that is reliable. Considering the region of Kargil and the harsh climatic conditions, the challenge was to ensure a system that is well coordinated. While road transportation was used in places possible, the helicopters seemed a better option for the Indian army to provide essential resources.

The task at hand was to build safe roads, robust bridges, and helipads. Medical support could be provided only after the transport system was secure. The war of Kargil was not extremely difficult, and it was well-known that medical help would be required. The Air Force stepped in to provide medical support and evacuation to the wounded army men and the injured.

Naval Operations and Maritime Support

The approach taken by the Navy was twofold. First, they ensured to provide safety to the assets of the Indian Navy in the maritime space in case of any surprise attack by Pakistan. The Indian Navy led the surveillance, and it was continuously done to ensure security. The codename of the operation carried out by the Indian Navy was "Operation Talwar".

The Navy showed its full strength, signalling to Pakistan that India will respond and show no restraint if the situation turns into a full-fledged war. This was a clear message to the Pakistani Military that in case of their intentions to go beyond Kargil, the Navy would respond, and the South and the Eastern Fleet came together with Western Fleet for this purpose.

Lessons Learned and Impact on Future Warfare

The General VP Malik, the Army Chief of the Kargil war writes in Bharat Rakshak Monitor- Volume 4 about the lessons India has learnt. First and foremost, he mentions the possibility of a proxy war turning into a conventional war in Indo-Pak security. Secondly, he mentions that state-sponsored terrorism is a weapon that is double-edged. This is majorly due to the social-political divides across the sub-continent. He further negates the assumption that nuclear weapons have reduced the probability of war between India and Pakistan. A conventional war is very much possible, and Kargil serves as the warning.

Further, a lack of strategic culture and an imbalance in civil-military relations has an adverse impact on Indo-Pak relations. Assumptions, as shown by the Pakistan military about the Indian military and its surprise attack, were based on an underestimation of Indian military forces. He also underlines the need to have more transparency and to have confidence and security-building measures to reduce the chances and tensions of war. Every war teaches some lessons. This was no different in the case of the war fought at the highest battleground, the Kargil.

• https://indianstrategicknowledgeonline.com/web/Kargil%20Conflict%20Articles.pdf
• https://www.financialexpress.com/business/defence-air-force-day-operation-safed-sagar-iaf-in-kargil-war-2346352/
• http://www.indiandefencereview.com/spotlights/battle-winning-role-of-the-gunners-in-kargil-war/
• https://chintan.indiafoundation.in/articles/artillery-the-ultimate-battle-winning-factor/
• https://www.asianage.com/india/all-india/041219/operation-talwar-how-the-navy-silently-contributed-to-kargil-win.html
• https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=1846446
• https://thelogicalindian.com/trending/navic-isro-33649
• https://indianstrategicknowledgeonline.com/web/LESSONS%20FROM%20KARGIL.pdf

Annie Pruthi

Annie Pruthi is pursuing her masters in Pol. Science from JMI, New Delhi and is a 1st division Arts graduate from Gargi College, DU. She is an avid reader and an award-winning author.

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Kargil Conflict And Pak-India Relations During 1999

In this research paper an attempt has been made to evaluate the Kargil conflict, its causes and corresponding consequences for Pak-India relations especially within one year of their nuclear tests. It is essential to trace the main factors which pushed both neighbors to a potential conflict which would have turned into a regular war, had the United States of America (USA) not arbitrated the truce. The study is also important in view of the fact that political leadership of Pakistan and India had inked a bilateral accord a few months back at the historic city of Lahore. It was significant that the Indian Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee had travelled in bus to Lahore for the peace talks with Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif making history of bus diplomacy. The Kargil conflict indeed worked as a spoiler to the peace making between the two neighbors. The conflict came as a surprise to analysts, leadership and people of both countries and the international powers interested in the region....

Related Papers

The Kargil War of 1999 was one of the three wars fought by India and Pakistan over the disputed region of Kashmir. Pakistan’s incursion into the Kargil sector of Indian occupied Kashmir across the internationally recognized Line of Control led to a series of military operations that finally culminated in the withdrawal of the Pakistani forces in the face of mounting pressure from the international community. The war was fought against the backdrop of India and Pakistan’s nuclear testing followed by a peace process convened to build confidence in the uneasy security context. The purpose of this report is to assess the conflict in all its dimensions in order to highlight the key incompatibilities that led to the war. The report conducts a contextual and structural analysis of the conflict, along with an evaluation of the parties involved, the dynamics of the conflict and potential for conflict regulation to reach its final conclusion. The findings of the report show that the conflict was a result of Pakistani military command’s aim to internationalize the Kashmir issue and design a military solution to the dispute. It is also revealed that the nuclear capacities of both the states acted as a deterrent to a nuclear war but it also elicited security concerns globally and drew out a decisive international response. The report has analyzed all of the aforementioned key components of the conflict to conclude that the Kargil war was fought by Pakistan and India to gain leverage in matters of national security and interests while using the nuclear backdrop as a deterrent to escalation into an all out nuclear war.

Pakistan Vision

Tahir Ashraf

Pakistan-India conflict, complex in nature, has its long history. From difference of ideologies and religions, enormous violence and killings during massive migration of masses at the time of partition of the sub-continent in 1947 and division of assets are some important irritants. The Jammu and Kashmir di spute , Siachin glacier dispute, Sir Creek and the Wullar Barrage/Tulbul Navigation Project are additional irritants that have intensified the Pakistan-India conflict. Pakistan-India bilateral relations have hostage by these conflicting issues. The current research looks at conflictual nature of Pakistan-India relationship while explaining the Pakistan-India conflict through the lenses of IR theory. The study has traced origin of the territorial issues like Siachin Glacier Dispute, Sir Creek and the Wullar Barrage. The study has attempted to investigate prospects for solution of these disputes. This research has also probed initiatives such as the Tashkent Agreement (1966), The Simla Accord (1972) and the Lahore Declaration (1999) to enhance confidence and de-escalate the conflict between Pakistan and India. The primary objective of this research is to analyse the prospects for sustained peace through constructive dialogue and suggesting win-win solution for the arch rival neighbours fortified with nuclear weapons in poverty-stricken South Asia.

Yousef Al-Ghufli

Since the Partition of India in 1947, relations between the two states of India and Pakistan continue to be contentious. In addition to the constant suspicion between both countries, India and Pakistan have entered into four large-scale wars in the past with one another. The purpose of this research is to understand how India and Pakistan’s positions have changed over time in since the Partition of India. As such, a comparative analysis of the first Indo-Pakistani War of 1948 and the fairly recent Kargil War of 1999 shall be conducted using tools associated with Kenneth Waltz’s three levels of analysis and Joseph Nye’s concept of structure and process. In addition, the paper aims to understand the implications of a future Indo-Pakistani war on the current international system and hopes to propose an efficient and lasting conflict resolution between India and Pakistan. In the end, this research paper proposes that a peaceful conflict resolution between India and Pakistan can be achieved through democracy, increasing economic interdependence and promoting regional cooperation.

Ikram Qureshi

The current research presents an overview of history of bilateral relations between Pakistan and India that have been adversarial since their inception in 1947. The study has also analyzed initiatives such as The Indus Waters Treaty (1960), the Tashkent Agreement (1966), The Simla Accord (1972) and the Lahore Declaration (1999) taken by Pakistan and India to build confidence and lower the intensity of the conflict. However, Pakistan and India have still to do concrete efforts to make their relations as durable and have ability to absorb political shocks like 2008 Mumbai incident. The study portrays Pakistan-India bilateral relationship as pendulum like movement. If they have taken one step forward they have moved two steps backward. However, Pakistan-India relations are moving towards maturity. And, peace overtures like the Composite Dialogue (2004) may have significant impact upon Pakistan-India relations provided that the negotiation process is not disrupted and disconnected. The primary objective of this research is to present an overall view of Pakistan-India relations in the backdrop of irritants that have made Pakistan-India normalization process as hostage to them.

Pervaiz Ali Mahesar

There are many contagious issues between India and Pakistan, which create hurdles in the way of permanent peace in South Asia. Kashmir dispute, border disputes at Siachen and Sir Creek areas and water dispute are the major issues between the two countries. These two states have fought three major wars and one limited war with each other. There were many crises when India and Pakistan came to the edge of war with each other. The crises occurring between the two states after getting nuclear capabilities were of greater anxiety in the international community. The crisis between the two states in 1990 was the first one with a nuclear dimension. Both states seemed to be at the edge of a conventional war when India decided to go for a war against Pakistan to lower Kashmir insurgency. Pakistan perceiving a threat of a conventional war from Indian side decided to go for all options including the use of nuclear weapons to maintain its integrity and sovereignty. The objective is to know the variable which averted Indo-Pak 1990 crisis, whether it

Muhammad Muzaffar , Iqra Jathol

M.F. Moonzajer

The purpose of this research is to observe the role of the great powers in India – Pakistan enduring rivalry. The author claims that Major Powers have institutionalized the conflicts between Pakistan and India in South Asia. He presents his arguments based on historical records rather than abstract theorization. Kapur initiates his arguments citing Western readers, contesting UK, US and China being primarily interested in reducing India’s power and influence by building up Pakistan as a challenger. He asserts that UK and USA joined forces with Pakistan because they felt threat from India. They provided military and diplomatic assistance to Pakistan in order to make Indo-Pakistan competition evenhanded.

Hammad Alvi

Dr. G H U L A M MUSTAFA

The Kashmir issue is a primary source of resentment between India and Pakistan. It is considered the oldest issue on the schedule of the Security Council yet to be resolved. This divisive issue remained unsolved and has become the nuclear flashpoint. The peace of the South Asian region is severely contingent upon the peaceful resolution of the Kashmir dispute. It is not only the pivot of bitterness in the bilateral relation of India and Pakistan, it also a continuous threat to the regional peace in South Asia. This study critically assesses and evaluated the issue in the perspective of historical facts and current context regarding Kashmir. Chronological data presented and describe that the Kashmir issue has deteriorated the fragile security of South Asian region and remained a continuous threat of nuclear escalation in the region. Kashmir issue has severe implications for populace of Kashmir as well as for the region.

Praveen Swami

Now that he has written his memoirs, we know what General Pervez Musharraf made of the “reality of Kashmir” in the months after he took power. What he did not see was that Pakistan was dangerously close to loosing its long-running subconventional war in Kashmir, a war of which, in Musharraf’s strategic vision, Kargil was only a part.

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Pakistan Army Chief acknowledges active role of soldiers in 1999 Kargil war against India

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Islamabad: In a rare public acknowledgement by a serving Pakistani army chief, General Asim Munir has mentioned the involvement of Pakistan army in the Kargil war as he listed the 1999 conflict with India among the major wars fought with the eastern neighbour.

Munir, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS) was speaking during the Defence and Martyrs Day event at Rawalpindi on Friday.

The 1999 Kargil war ended with India recapturing the border posts occupied by Pakistani infiltrators. India celebrates the victory as Vijay Diwas on July 26.

In his speech, General Munir highlighted the role of the army in defending the motherland with the support of the people of Pakistan and also touched upon various conflicts with India, including the Kargil war.

“Indeed Pakistani nation is a courageous and bold nation, which understands best the importance of independence and how to protect it at any price. Whether the Pak-India wars of 1948, 1965, 1971 and Kargil or Siachen conflict, thousands of martyrs gave sacrifices for the security and honour of the country,” Munir said.

Pakistan had initially distanced itself from the conflict by saying that only private “freedom fighters” were involved in it. However, soon the scale of fighting revealed that the armies of two countries were fighting against each other.

The 2006 book In The Line Of Fire written by then Pervez Musharraf, who was the army chief during the Kargil war, clearly acknowledged the Pakistan Army's role.

Musharraf had sent in the Northern Light Infantry men in the Kargil theatre of war. Pakistan awarded Captain Karnal Sher Khan of 27th Battalion, Sind Regiment and Havaldar Lalak Jan of Northern Light Infantry with the highest gallantry award called Nishan-e-Haider after the Kargil war was over.

Munir, in his address, also said the country would “not allow political differences to turn into hatred.”

He asserted that the strong relations between the army and the public would act as the foundation to defeat any enemy trying to create rifts between the two.

“The relation between the armed forces and the nation is of heart,” he said, adding that the nation always strengthened the army in all fields including, “rescue works in the events of natural disasters, foreign hostilities or war against terrorism.”

Pakistan Prime Minister Shebaz Sharif was also present at the ceremony, which was attended by the army’s top brass, senior military and governmental officials, and families of soldiers, among others.

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Pakistan Army’s Rare Acknowledgement Of Role In 1999 Kargil War: ‘Thousands Of Martyrs Gave Sacrifices For…’

Pakistan's army chief acknowledges the army's involvement in the 1999 kargil war in a rare instance after islamabad had asserted that only private "freedom fighters" were involved..

In a rare public acknowledgement, Pakistan's Chief of Army Staff (COAS), General Asim Munir, has recognised the involvement of the Pakistan Army in the 1999 Kargil war. General Munir made this statement while addressing the Defence and Martyrs Day event in Rawalpindi on Friday, marking a significant shift in the narrative surrounding the conflict.

During his speech, General Munir emphasised the Pakistani Army's role in defending the nation, citing various conflicts with India, including the Kargil War. "Indeed, the Pakistani nation is a courageous and bold nation, which understands best the importance of independence and how to protect it at any price. Whether the Pak-India wars of 1948, 1965, 1971 and Kargil or the Siachen conflict, thousands of martyrs gave sacrifices for the security and honour of the country," Munir stated, as quoted by news agency PTI.

The Kargil war, which brought India and Pakistan to the brink of a nuclear confrontation in 1999, has long been a contentious issue between the two nations. The conflict ended with India recapturing the border posts occupied by Pakistani infiltrators. India commemorates this victory annually as Vijay Diwas on 26 July. While India claims a decisive victory, Pakistan had initially distanced itself from the conflict, asserting that only private "freedom fighters" were involved. However, the scale of the fighting soon revealed that the armies of both nations were engaged in direct combat.

ALSO READ | 25 Years Of Kargil: Why India Needed An Agnipath-Like Scheme | Opinion

In his address, General Munir also stressed the importance of national unity, stating that Pakistan would "not allow political differences to turn into hatred." He affirmed that the strong relationship between the army and the public would serve as a foundation to defeat any enemy attempting to create rifts between the two. "The relation between the armed forces and the nation is of heart," Munir said, adding that the nation has always strengthened the army in all fields, including "rescue works in the events of natural disasters, foreign hostilities, or war against terrorism."

The ceremony was attended by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, top military officials, senior government representatives, and families of soldiers, among others.

Ex-Pak Prez Pervez Musharraf's Admission On Kargil War In 2006 Memoir

This acknowledgement follows a similar admission by former Pakistan Army Chief Pervez Musharraf in his 2006 book, In The Line Of Fire. Musharraf, who was the army chief during the Kargil war, disclosed that the Northern Light Infantry was deployed in the Kargil theatre of war. Following the conflict, Pakistan honoured Captain Karnal Sher Khan of the 27th Battalion, Sind Regiment, and Havaldar Lalak Jan of the Northern Light Infantry with the Nishan-e-Haider, the country’s highest gallantry award.

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Pak Admits Military's Direct Role In Kargil? What Its Army Chief Said

Pakistan army chief general syed asim munir mentioned kargil along with the three wars with india while paying homage to what he termed as sacrifices soldiers of the pakistan armed forces.

Pakistan's General Syed Asim Munir has admitted Pakistani military's direct role in Kargil war

In what is being seen as a first-of-its kind confession by the General Headquarters (GHQ) in Rawalpindi, Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Syed Asim Munir has admitted Pakistani military's direct role in the 1999 Kargil war against India.

During his Defence Day speech on Friday, Munir mentioned Kargil along with the three wars with India while paying homage to what he termed as sacrifices rendered through martyrdom by soldiers of the Pakistan Armed forces.

"Certainly Pakistani nation is a powerful and brave nation, which understands the value of freedom and knows how to sustain it. 1948, 1965, 1971, the Kargil war between Pakistan and India, or the war in Siachen, thousands sacrificed their lives and were martyred for the safety and security of the country," he told the gathering at the GHQ.

Munir's statement is being seen as a first of its kind confession by a sitting Army Chief on direct role of the military in the Kargil war, a position Islamabad has refrained from taking for the past 25 years.

So far, Pakistan had denied its involvement in the 1999 war and claimed that it was an action taken by "freedom fighters" of Kashmir.

Former Army Chief General Pervaiz Musharraf always claimed that the Kargil operation was a successful localized action.

During an interview, Musharraf had stated that then Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif was not taken into confidence and many decisions taken by the armed forces along the volatile Line of Control (LoC) with India did not even require approval of the army chief.

However, Musharraf had admitted the role of Pakistan Army's 10 core FCNA (Force Command Northern Areas) in the entire operation.

"Initially, there was a mujahideen activity in the area. Later on FCNA decided to man the 150 mile vacant area of the Line of Control (LoC). For this, there is no need to get approval or permission from anyone," said Musharraf.

Mushahid Hussain Syed, who was the Information Secretary under Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif during 1999, also detailed about his government being informed about the Kargil operation through an official communication by the then DGMO (Director General Military Operations).

"When Kargil happened, the formal intimation and briefing that was given to Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, was given on 17th May 1999 by the DGMO. Before that, voices from India had started to come and there was a realization that something was happening along the Line of Control," said Syed in an interview.

Experts maintain that the Kargil operation will remain a success story for some and a big blunder and mistake for many others. They maintain that Musharraf's claim of FCNA's involvement, which is part of the 10 Core of Pakistan Army and manages Kashmir and the northern areas of the country, is enough confession to endorse the fact, reiterated by the current army chief.

It also remains a fact that many bodies of Pakistan Army soldiers in Kargil were not brought back, prompting their families to raise questions over the reluctance of the Pakistani government and the army to own them.

"Those officers, who came to meet us, we kept asking them to try and bring the bodies of their loved ones back. I believe that they should have tried harder. But they didn't," said Itrat Abbas, brother of late Captain Farhat Haseeb, the army officer martyred in Kargil, confirming that officers and soldiers of Pakistan Army were deployed in Kargil.

Rehana Mehboob, mother of late Captain Ammar Hussain, admitted that she kept getting calls from the Army Unit and friends of her son during the Kargil war, adding that then Army Chief Pervaiz Musharraf did not even own the operation.

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The above-mentioned statements by families and then government officials along with the then army chief are enough evidence to maintain that while then PM Sharif was kept in the dark, the army's chain of command was fully on board about the Kargil operation.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

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Watch: After 25 Years, Pakistan Army admits role in 1999 Kargil War against India

In a rare public acknowledgement by a serving Pakistani army chief, General Asim Munir has mentioned the involvement of Pakistan army in the Kargil war as he listed the 1999 conflict with India among the major wars fought with the eastern neighbour. read more

Twenty-five years after the Kargil War, the Pakistan Army has accepted its involvement in the deadly conflict with India for the first time. In a speech on Defence Day, Pakistan Army Chief General Asim Munir said, “Be it 1948, 1965, 1971, or the Kargil war of 1999, thousands of soldiers sacrificed their lives for the country and Islam.”

The Kargil conflict of 1999 had brought India and Pakistan to the brink of nuclear conflagration. Pakistan says it pulled out after the US intervened to cool the frayed tempers while India claims a decisive victory in the war that took place in the Himalayan heights.

In his speech, General Munir highlighted the role of the army in defending the motherland with the support of the people of Pakistan and also touched upon various conflicts with India, including the Kargil war.

“Indeed Pakistani nation is a courageous and bold nation, which understands best the importance of independence and how to protect it at any price. Whether the Pak-India wars of 1948, 1965, 1971 and Kargil or Siachen conflict, thousands of martyrs gave sacrifices for the security and honour of the country,” Munir said.

First time ever #PakistaniArmy accepts involvement in #KargilWar . Pakistan Army Chief General #AsimMunir confirms Pakistan Army's involvement in #KargilWar . Pakistan Army Chief General Asim Munir in a defence day speech on Friday said, "1948, 1965, 1971 or Kargil war between… pic.twitter.com/Um83MwSrwM — Upendrra Rai (@UpendrraRai) September 7, 2024

Pakistan had initially distanced itself from the conflict by saying that only private “freedom fighters” were involved in it. However, soon the scale of fighting revealed that the armies of two countries were fighting against each other.

The 2006 book ‘In The Line Of Fire’ written by then Pervez Musharraf, who was the army chief during the Kargil war, clearly acknowledged the Pakistan Army’s role.

Musharraf had sent in the Northern Light Infantry men in the Kargil theatre of war.

Pakistan awarded Captain Karnal Sher Khan of 27th Battalion, Sind Regiment and Havaldar Lalak Jan of Northern Light Infantry with the highest gallantry award called Nishan-e-Haider after the Kargil war was over.

This statement is considered a shift in Pakistan’s stance, deviating from its traditional narrative as the Pakistani Army has been avoiding openly acknowledging its direct role in the Kargil conflict, attributing it to “mujahideen” or “freedom fighters” in its official account.

In contrast, Nawaz Sharif, the Prime Minister of Pakistan during the Kargil war, has publicly criticised the military operation, which is often regarded as a strategic “blunder” by Pakistan’s armed forces.

Lt Gen (retd) Shahid Aziz, a former Pakistani military officer, had previously acknowledged the role of their troops in Kargil after his retirement. His admission came after he retired from the forces.

Aziz described the operation as a “four-man show,” known only to General Pervez Musharraf and a few other top commanders. Sharif, who signed the 1999 Lahore Declaration with former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, later admitted that Pakistan had violated the agreement through its actions in Kargil.

BREAKING NEWS • After 25 years, the Pakistan Army has admitted it was directly involved in the Kargil War. • This is the first time they've done so, as they previously said it was just "Mujahideen" fighters. Pakistan had also refused to accept the bodies of its officers who… https://t.co/BFNQIW8HAV pic.twitter.com/CDjZDvAW8L — Bharat Spectrum (@BharatSpectrum) September 7, 2024

The Ladakh and Kargil sectors have gone through a tumultuous period since independence, and this region has been at the forefront of significant battles in all the wars India has fought. Twenty-five years ago, in 1999, this remote area, isolated by high mountains with hostile climatic conditions, was where a military ingress by Pakistan took place across the Line of Control.

On May 3, 1999, the locals first reported the presence of unidentified personnel in Kargil Sector. Reconnaissance patrols were expeditiously dispatched to investigate the presence of infiltrators. The magnitude of Pakistan’s invasion and preparation were quickly revealed, and plans were prepared to evict Pakistani troops from the Indian side of the LoC. To avert escalation of the conflict, the Indian government stipulated that the Indian armed forces should not cross the LoC.

On May 26, 1999, the Indian Army launched Operation Vijay, a coordinated infantry and artillery assault with air support against regular Pakistani soldiers of the Northern Light Infantry occupying high-altitude mountain peaks and ridgelines to evict the Pakistani intruders.

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In a first, Pakistan Army chief admits its direct role in 1999 Kargil war

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Pakistan accepts army involvement in kargil war for the first time.

Pakistan Army Chief General Asim Munir has acknowledged the army's involvement in the 1999 Kargil War. The conflict began when Pakistani infiltrators crossed the Line of Control and seized key positions in Ladakh's Kargil district. Indian forces faced significant challenges due to the extreme high-altitude conditions but successfully reclaimed the positions by July 26, 1999.

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Pakistan army admits role in Kargil War for first time: 'Several soldiers...'

Pakistan army chief general asim munir said several soldiers had laid down their lives while fighting various wars with india, including the one in kargil in 1999..

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• Pakistan army chief says several soldiers laid down their lives in 1965, 1971, 1999
• Pakistani army has never publicly acknowledged its direct role in Kargil
• Had officially claimed it was the work of 'mujahideen'

The Pakistani army has publicly admitted its involvement in the 1999 Kargil War against India for the first time. Speaking at an event in Rawalpindi to mark the country's Defence Day, Pakistan army chief General Asim Munir said several soldiers had laid down their lives while fighting the wars in 1965, 1971 and in Kargil in 1999.

"Be it 1948, 1965, 1971, or the Kargil war of 1999, thousands of soldiers have sacrificed their lives for Pakistan and Islam," the Army chief said at the event.

Pakistan suffered a crushing defeat in the 1999 war, with Indian soldiers successfully reclaiming the positions occupied by infiltrators on the Indian side of the LoC in the Kargil sector, including Tiger Hill, after a nearly three-month-long battle in Ladakh.

Then US President Bill Clinton also asked Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif to order the withdrawal of Army personnel from the Kargil sector.

India has always maintained that the operation was a strategy by Pakistan to assert its claim over Kashmir.

India has several evidence of involvement of the Pakistani army in Kargil, including prisoners of war, their pay books, uniforms, and weapons. The Indian Army buried several dead Pakistani soldiers in Kargil after the war.

India observes July 26 as 'Kargil Vijay Diwas' to commemorate India's victory over Pakistan in the war. A total of 545 soldiers laid down their lives fighting the Pakistani intruders.