The Regiment of Artillery, with lethal and accurate firepower, was able to have a telling effect on the enemy troops and their defences, including Point 5140, which was the key factor in the early completion of operations in the 1999 Kargil war, he said.
On July 26, 1999, the Indian Army announced the successful culmination of Operation Vijay', declaring victory after a nearly three-month-long battle with Pakistani troops on the icy heights of Kargil in Ladakh.
On behalf of the Regiment of Artillery, a wreath was laid by Lieutenant General T K Chawla, Director General of Artillery, at Kargil War Memorial, Drass, the spokesman said, adding veteran gunners who had participated in the operation were present on the occasion.
Lieutenant General Anindya Sengupta, General Officer Commanding of Fire and Fury Corps, also laid a wreath on the solemn occasion, he said.
The ceremony was conducted in the presence of veterans from all artillery regiments, which got the honour title KARGIL in Operation Vijay. Serving officers of the gunner fraternity were also present during the event, he added.
I salute the valour and courage of our immortal heroes who fought till their last breath to protect the sovereignty and integrity of our great Nation, and recaptured territory of our motherland in Kargil from the enemy," he said.
On July 26, 1999, the whole world witnessed the unparalleled courage of our brave soldiers who overcame the challenges of impossible peaks and displayed the might of the country, he said.
"I pay homage to those self-sacrificing and devoted sons of Maa Bharti. I also salute the undeterred courage of the families of our bravehearts," the Lt Governor said.
Air Officer Commanding in Chief (AOC-in-C) of Eastern Air Command Air Marshal DK Patnaik terms the victory as priceless as the task for the Air Force was challenging. Patnaik, who was then a Squadron Leader, had launched the first-ever night laser-guided bomb strike on Tiger Hill.
“During the initial few days, it was not known how the intruders managed to enter our territory. Air power is not used frequently as it is always considered to be escalatory. The then Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee had clearly instructed us not to cross the Line of Control (LoC),” recalled Patnaik.
In an exclusive interview to OTV, Patnaik said, “Dropping weapons from high-altitude was first of its kind in the country and the world. We had to devise innovative methods as laser-guided bombs were included in the Indian Air Force so, we had to practice a lot before hitting the targets. It was not easy as the enemy was equipped with stinger missiles. It was a complex operation as our troops were on the ground and we had already lost two IAF aircraft, a MiG-21 and a Mi-17 helicopter.”
Sharing experience, Patnaik said capturing Tiger Hill was important as the enemy had a perfect view of Drass and the National Highway. “We took the enemy by surprise and cut off their supply which forced them to withdra,”he said.
Patnaik was commissioned into the fighter stream of the Indian Air Force on June 8, 1984. He is an alumnus of the National Defence Academy, Khadakwasla, Defence Services Staff College and College of Air Warfare. A fighter combat leader, Patnaik has more than 2,500 hours of accident-free flying experience on various types of aircraft.
The Odisha-born IAF officer further said, 'one thing came out very clear from Kargil that enemy is not predictable'. "You need to think like an enemy and explore all possibilities to counter it through a lot of discussions, flying exercises and other aspects," he added.
(Edited By Pradeep Singh)
Patnaik gave the assurance to Nivedita, who met him at the state secretariat here.
Earlier, Patnaik had invited Nivedita to the state capital after coming to know about her desire from the media.
Nivedita, who hails from Kandiapada village in Kendrapara district, had expressed her desire to pay tribute to her husband at the Kargil War Memorial in Jammu and Kashmir. However, she was not getting any support to visit that state.
As per the assurance given to Nivedita, the Chief Minister issued instructions to the state's Resident Commissioner at New Delhi to take steps so that she could visit Jammu and Kashmir.
Patnaik also asked the general administration department to coordinate with Nivedita and the Resident Commissioner to ensure her visit.
In a message, Modi said the day was reminiscent of the bravery and sacrifice of our soldiers.
"I pay my tributes to those who sacrificed everything in service of the nation," he said in a message.
In 1999, India and Pakistan clashed in the Kargil area of Ladakh in Jammu and Kashmir.
The 'missing man' flypast is an aerial salute to honour the fallen comrades-in-arms.
The Indian Air Force chief was then commanding the Golden Arrows Squadron based in Srinagar and Squadron Leader Ahuja was the Flight Commander.
Ahuja was awarded the Vir Chakra posthumously for his gallantry during the Kargil conflict.
The formation flying was carried out at the Bhisiana air base on the outskirts of Bathinda in which Air Marshal R. Nambiar also took part.
On May 27, 1999, Squadron Leader Ahuja, who parachuted on ground, was tortured to death by Pakistani troops.
Dhanoa and Nambiar strapped up for the "missing man" formation in Bathinda on Monday. It is rare for two top IAF functionaries to fly together in a formation. Both are Kargil veterans as they had flown missions during the conflict in 1999.
Nambiar, who is also one of the strong contenders to become IAF chief after Dhanoa, had flown Mirage 2000 during the Kargil war, while Dhanoa had commanded a Mig-21 squadron.
After the flight, Dhanoa said that the government's decision to buy two squadrons of Rafale was game changing. He said the IAF had enhanced it's capability immensely since the Kargil war as all the fighters were now equipped with precision weapons.
During the Kargil war, only Mirage 2000s had laser designated pods for precision bombing. He said that inclusion of heavy lift helicopter Chinook and attack helicopter Apache will further enhance IAF's capability.
The anniversary celebrations for this year will be spread over three days from July 25-27.
"However, as part of the build up to the main event, numerous activities have been planned to be organised all over the country from the first week of July," an official said.
The celebrations in the national capital begins on July 14 with the illumination of a 'Victory Flame' from the National War Memorial here, which would traverse through 11 towns and cities to finally culminate at Dras where the flame will be merged with the eternal flame at the 'Kargil War Memorial', he said.
The torch relay team will conduct educational and patriotic talks and will interact with the prominent personalities and students in various educational institutes, the Army said in a statement.
The events, include expeditions by the units, which participated in the Kargil War, to their respective battlefields at super-high altitude locations such as Tololing, Tiger Hill, Pt 4875, and special national integration camp for NCC cadets hailing from various states and Union territories of the country.
The event will last for 12 days in Leh. Essay and drawing competitions are being organised for school children all across the Ladakh region with thematic topics.
"Year 2019 marks the 20th anniversary of victory in 'Operation Vijay', popularly known as the 'Kargil War'. The Kargil War is a saga of strong political, military and diplomatic actions. The nation shall be celebrating the 20th anniversary of victory this year in Kargil War with pride, honour and inspiration," the Army said.
The Kargil War will always be remembered for its strategic and tactical surprises, the self-imposed national strategy of restraint in keeping the war limited to Kargil-Siachen sectors, and the swiftly executed tri-services military strategy and plans, it said.
The Kargil War will also be remembered for the determination and daring junior leadership and the raw courage of our jawans at tactical level, Army said.
The 20th anniversary of the victory is being celebrated with the theme 'Remember, Rejoice and Renew', it said.
"We 'remember' our martyrs, by revisiting the sacrifices and instilling pride and respect among us, we 'rejoice' by celebrating the victory in Kargil and we 'renew' our resolve to safeguard the honour of the tricolour," the Army said.
The objective of these celebrations is to evoke feeling of nationalism and patriotism through nationwide campaigns especially amongst youth and to pay homage to the valiant soldiers.
The events are planned to highlight the stories of valour by our brave soldiers and rekindle the pride among the youth of the country, inspiring those who were too young and those who were not yet born, to form part of the nation's resolve.
"Kargil Vijay Diwas is a special occasion for the people of Ladakh. People of Ladakh shall be participating in the run 'Ek Daud Shaheedon Ke Naam' which would include the citizens from the remotest corner of the region, and the brave war veterans from far-flung villages of Ladakh. Popular sports and competitions like polo and archery for the local populace is scheduled along with other festivities," the statement said.
A T-20 cricket championship is being organised in the Ladakh region in the NDS Memorial Stadium which is situated at an altitude of 11500 ft.
The event is also aimed at nurturing the cricket talent among the youth in the region. The tournament will see teams form the Indian Army, Indian Air Force, ITBP and local clubs from the entire Ladakh region, the Army said.
A wreath memorial ceremony will be organised at the 'Kargil War Memorial' in Dras on the Kargil Vijay Diwas (July 26 to honour the bravehearts who laid down their lives during the 'Operation Vijay', it said.
In Delhi, a 'Commemoration Ceremony' is being organised at the Manekshaw Centre, where a panel discussion with war veterans and serving officers will be organised.
The event will be followed by 'Kargil Vijay Diwas Evening', a cultural extravaganza, at the Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium on July 27.
He was speaking to reporters on the sidelines of an event to commemorate 20 years of Operation Vijay, India's limited war against Pakistan in Kargil.
"There is no such area that we have left unguarded. Our surveillance team is keeping a tight watch and regularly patrolling the areas," Rawat said in response to a question on whether Pakistan can attempt a Kargil-like infiltration.
"We don't think Pakistan will attempt something like that (as during Kargil) because they have seen the consequences... I can clearly say, in coming days and years, Pakistan will not dare to attempt any infiltration," the Army chief told reporters at the event held at the Manekshaw Centre in Delhi Cantonment.
He also released a video of a special tribute song, penned by Bollywood lyricist Sameer, dedicated to Kargil heroes. The video features Bollywood megastar Amitabh Bachchan and a host of other film celebrities.
Dedicated to Kargil heroes, the video features Bollywood megastar Amitabh Bachchan, Olympic medallist boxer Mary Kom, actors Salman Khan, Anupam Kher, Kangana Ranaut, Suniel Shetty, and Vicky Kaushal of 'Uri: The Surgical Strike' fame.
The song titled 'Tujhe Bhulega Na Tera Hindustan' has been penned by well-known Bollywood lyricist Sameer, who was also present during the launch of the video at an event held at Manekshaw Centre to commemorate 20th anniversary of Kargil war.
General Officer Commanding-in-Chief (GOC-in-C) Northern Command Lt Gen Ranbir Singh announced at the event that the video clip of the song will be played soon in movie theatres, TV channels and on the internet as part of the weeks-long activities planned ahead of the main event on Kargil Vijay Diwas on July 27 that will culminate the centenary celebrations.
Rawat, later interacting with reporters, said, "Today, we are here to celebrate 20 years of Kargil and Operation Vijay and the Northern Command as well as the 14 Corps have kick-started the celebrations to be held over the next few weeks".
Operation Vijay was India's limited war against Pakistan in Kargil in 1999.
"It is an ode to those officers who guided the soldiers to victory at icy heights of Kargil, as rightly depicted in the theme song (video). It was very touching and moving moment for all of us. Let us all celebrate and rejoice the 20 years of the victory," he said.
GOC-in-C Northern Command Lt Gen Singh said Kargil victory celebrations is a "national festival".
"The 20th year celebrations mark the gallantry of the soldiers who participated in Op Vjay, and how the Indian army stood tall, and evicted enemies from Pakistan perched on top of jagged hills. It is also a saga of sacrifices and valour of our soldiers," he said.
It is also tribute to senior officers like Lt Gen Mohinder Puri, who guided operations at that time, Lt Gen Singh said.
Puri later authored the book, Kargil: Turning the Tide, which contains a gripping account of the operations of 8 Mountain Division, which was tasked to evict the enemy from the Drass-Mushkoh Sector during Op Vijay. Puri led the division during the operation.
"On behalf of all ranks of the Northern Command, let me assure that should there be any contingency that may come up in the command theatre, we will continue with the same resolve to deliver the military objectives set for us," Singh said.
Sameer said the song was very special to him, adding, "before penning the song, I went to Leh, Ladakh and Kargil to feel the emotions running through my senses".
A number of events have been planned by the Army in Delhi and Drass in Jammu and Kashmir this month to mark the 20th anniversary of the 'Kargil Vijay Diwas'.
The main anniversary celebrations for this year will be spread over three days from July 25-27.
"Year 2019 marks the 20th anniversary of victory in 'Operation Vijay', popularly known as the 'Kargil War'. The Kargil War is a saga of strong political, military and diplomatic actions. The nation shall be celebrating the 20th anniversary of victory this year in Kargil War with pride, honour and inspiration," the Army had earlier said.
A wreath memorial ceremony will be organised at the 'Kargil War Memorial' in Drass on the Kargil Vijay Diwas (July 26) to honour the bravehearts who laid down their lives during the 'Operation Vijay', officials said.
The event will be followed by 'Kargil Vijay Diwas Evening', a cultural extravaganza, at the Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium on July 27 in Delhi.
Capt Batra's daring assault enabled the Indian Army to recapture the crucial peak named Point 4875 in the limited war over the icy heights of Kargil in Jammu and Kashmir in May-July 1999.
"All that I can say is one needs to visit these shrines captured by all our brave Indian soldiers who make it so easy for us to live peacefully," Vishal Batra, a Chandigarh-based banker, tweeted after climbing the hilltop christened 'Batra Top' close to the Line of Control.
"Can't express it in words as one needs to feel what the Indian Army does. Visiting the peak was like a shrine one could just imagine to visit."
All that I can say is one need to visit these shrines captured by all our Bravado’s Indian Soldiers who make it so easy for us live peacefully. Can’t express it in words as one needs to feel what Indian Army does.Visiting the peak was like a Shrine one could just imagine to visit https://t.co/CaHNYQOXxb
— Vishal Batra (@vishalbatra1974) July 7, 2019
Various events, including expeditions by units, were organised to mark the day at high-altitude locations like Tololing, Tiger Hill and Point 4875.
Vishal Batra was dropped by helicopter to Point 4875.
In another tweet, he said: "Either I would hoist the tricolor or I would come back wrapped...20 years later (which is 7th July 2019 today), the Indian TRICOLOR unfurls yet again showing the Dominance of our Indian Army and it's Brave Hearts.. Jai Hind."
Either I would hoist the tricolor or I would come back wrapped... 20 years later (which is 7th July 2019 today), the Indian TRICOLOR furls yet again showing the Dominance of our Indian Army and it’s Brave Hearts.. Jai Hind pic.twitter.com/IQSD2YfWYV
— Vishal Batra (@vishalbatra1974) July 7, 2019
Remembering his braveheart brother's hunger to accomplish more in Kargil war, Vishal Batra tweeted...
It’s also the beginning of an expedition for Dharma Productions to get the real Valour of Capt Vikram Batra (Shershaah) on the screen coz legendary Capt Vikram Batra (PVC) was a real Hero who lived to the credo of INDIAN Army and the ethos of his Regiment.... “Yeh Dil Mange More” https://t.co/3hRuVOYHdV pic.twitter.com/eGKB0vNWxe
— Vishal Batra (@vishalbatra1974) July 7, 2019
Kargil hero Capt Batra was posthumously awarded the Param Vir Chakra - India's highest war-time gallantry award. He used "Yeh dil maange more" as a battle slogan, which captured the nation's imagination.
Himachal Pradesh's Palampur is the hometown of Captain Batra.
In late July 1999, India retook all the positions that had been occupied by the Pakistan Army and mujahideen irregulars.
India lost 527 soldiers and Pakistan lost upwards of 700 men in the over two-month-long conflict.
According to the Army, the 'victory flame' will be carried by a team of motorcyclists over 11 towns and cities to finally merge with the eternal flame at Kargil War Memorial, Dras.
Kargil Vijay Diwas is celebrated every year on July 26 to honour those who laid down their lives during the Kargil War.
Singh and Army chief General Bipin Rawat paid homage to the martyrs by laying a wreath at the Amar Jawan Jyoti at the National War Memorial here.
"I pay homage to Army jawans who sacrificed their lives while securing the country's borders. I also offer sincere condolences and respect to their families," Singh told reporters.
A number of events have been planned by the Army in Delhi and Dras in Jammu and Kashmir to mark the 20th anniversary of the Kargil War.
The torch relay team will conduct educational and patriotic talks and will interact with the prominent personalities and students in various educational institutes.
"During the Kargil War in 1999, I had the opportunity to go to Kargil and show solidarity with our brave soldiers," he said on Twitter.
The Prime Minister said that in 1999, he was working for the BJP in Jammu and Kashmir and Himachal Pradesh.
"The visit to Kargil and interactions with soldiers are unforgettable," Modi said.
In the photographs, he is seen interacting with army men and meeting wounded soldiers.
During the Kargil War in 1999, I had the opportunity to go to Kargil and show solidarity with our brave soldiers.
This was the time when I was working for my Party in J&K as well as Himachal Pradesh.
The visit to Kargil and interactions with soldiers are unforgettable. pic.twitter.com/E5QUgHlTDS
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) July 26, 2019
"A grateful nation acknowledges the gallantry of our Armed Forces on the heights of Kargil in 1999. We salute the grit and valour of those who defended India, and record our everlasting debt to those who never returned," the President tweeted.
The Prime Minister expressed his heart-felt gratitude. "This day reminds us of the courage, bravery and dedication of our soldiers. On this occasion, my humble tribute to those mighty warriors, who gave up their all to defend their motherland," he tweeted in Hindi.
"Let's pay homage to the Kargil martyrs and salute the courage, valour and sacrifice of our bravehearts. Let's remember the supreme sacrifice made by the brave soldiers of India, to uphold and safeguard the integrity of the nation," said Indian Air Force.
"26 July immortalised as Kargil Vijay Diwas is saga of glorious victory of the Nation during Kargil Conflict in May-July 1999. #IndianArmy soldiers fought legendary battles in Drass, Kaksar, Batalik & Turtok sectors. #Salute to the courage, valour & sacrifice of our martyrs & heroes," tweeted Additional Directorate General of Public Information, IHQ of MoD (Army).
Sepoy Amarpreet Singh, Sepoy Bakhtwar Singh and Lieutenant Hitesh Kumar, sons of Naik Subedar Surjeet Singh, Naik Subedar Ravail Singh and Naik Bachan Kumar, respectively, were supported by their mothers in the decision.
The Indian Army launched 'Operation Vijay' in May 1999 to recapture several mountain tops overlooking the strategic Srinagar-Leh highway from Pakistani intruders.
Fathers of Amarpreet, Bakhtawar and Hitesh were among the 527 soldiers who were killed in the over two-month-long war fought atop jagged peaks and amid freezing temperatures.
As many as 1,363 soldiers were wounded in different battles of the conflict.
Amarpreet, who hails from Punjab's Mawa village, was 10 years old when he lost his father in the war.
He had always wanted to join the Army, his mother, Amarjeet Kour, said.
"When his father lost his life fighting in Drass sector in the Medium Artillery regiment in 1999, my son was just 10 years old. From the beginning, he was interested in joining the Army. I supported him and I am proud of his decision," she said.
Amarpreet joined his father's regiment in May 2018 and is currently posted in Leh.
Mother of Sepoy Bakhtawar, Surinder Kour, is no different.
She said she always supported her son's decision to join the Army.
Bakhtawar, hailing from Jammu's Makhanpur village, was only nine years old when his father, Naik Subedar Ravail Singh, died fighting the enemy at Tiger Hill.
Bakhtawar, who has served in Kargil, was also encouraged by other family members to join the Army.
"My uncle, who also fought in the Kargil war, also encouraged me by sharing stories of his bravery," he recalled.
Lieutenant Hitesh Kumar's father, Lance Naik Bachan Singh of the 2nd Battallion of Rajputana Rifles, died fighting in Tololing on June 12, 1999.
Though Hitesh was only six years old then, he decided to join the Army after his father's death and he has done it, his mother, Kamlesh Bala, said.
A senior Army officer lauded the young soldiers for choosing to follow in their fathers' footsteps.
"Not many men can dare to dream of a life full of sacrifices knowing well enough the life-threatening dangers associated with the choice," he said.
"Not many women are brave enough to support their children to choose a career that took away their husbands from them," he added.
The Kargil war was declared over on July 26, 1999, after the Indian soldiers pushed back the Pakistani troops, a bulk of them drawn from the neighbouring country's Northern Light Infantry.
The day is observed as 'Kargil Vijay Diwas' to commemorate India's victory.
The Defence Ministry has said the 20th anniversary of the war will be commemorated in Delhi and Drass from July 25 to 27, with numerous activities planned all over the country from the first week of July.
Addressing a gathering to commemorate the 20th anniversary of the Kargil war, the Prime Minister said modernisation of the armed forces was a priority of his government as the wars have now reached the space and are being fought even in the cyber world.
In 1999, Pakistani Army had captured the mountainous heights in Kargil in Ladakh region of Jammu and Kashmir and India undertook military action to evict the intruders in a three-month war.
"We foiled Pakistan's deception in Kargil... This war changed the perception of the world towards India... We exposed the deceitful plans of Pakistan to re-draw the Line of Control (LoC). The world witnessed that we never initiated any act of violence and instead gave a befitting reply," Modi said.
While quoting the then Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee on the episode, Modi said Pakistan had launched the misadventure, thinking that India would seek the help of the international community and foreign powers would step in to mediate.
However, India did nothing like that and on its own used the military power to throw out the Pakistani Army, the Prime Minister said.
Hailing the armed forces for their exceptional valour displayed while recapturing the mountain peaks of Kargil, Modi named a few of those decorated for their bravery.
He recalled the Param Vir Chakra awardee Captain Vikram Batra, who had famously said, "Yeh Dil Maange More" and said the late officer's "heart wasn't asking for himself, not for a religion, language or caste, but for the whole Bharat, for 'Maa Bharati'."
Batra, who belonged to Himachal Pradesh, was killed in close combat with Pakistani troops while recapturing a peak after having taking over one peak already.
Paying tributes to the armed forces for safeguarding the borders of the country, he emphasized modernization to make them in tune with the modern warfare scenario.
"Today, the wars have reached the space. Wars are being fought even in the cyber world. So, the modernization of defence forces is not only a necessity but also our priority", said Modi.
The decision to seek the Centre's permission to open these out-of-bound areas has been taken in a meeting of the State Administrative Council (SAC) headed by Jammu and Kashmir Governor Satya Pal Malik.
At present, tourists need permission from the Ministry of Home Affairs to visit any inner line area in Ladakh. Likewise, a permit is required to visit tribal and out-of-bound areas in Ladakh.
The peaks that the government plans to throw open are mostly in Drass and Batalik sector of Kargil, where intense fighting took place between the Indian soldiers and the intruding Pakistan Army in 1999.
The base of Tiger Hill, which received high coverage during the war, will also be opened for tourists.
Trekking routes that the government plans to open include Kargil-Lalung-Shahshi Lake-Darchiks/Garkone Broq, Kargil-Hunderman Brok Ridge (LoC visit), Batalik Junction to Gargardo (apricot village), Drass-Sumda-Marpola (Tiger Hill Base), National Highway to Kaksar Village (LoC visit), National Highway to Lato Village (LoC visit) and National Highway to Budgam-Majdass Village (LoC visit).
Other trekking routes would be Faroona-Jasgund via Lasar La, Akshow (Zanskar)-Gulab Garh (Kishtwar), Padum-Gulab Garh (Kishtwar) via Omasila, Padum-Dangale (Padder Valley) via Pot La, Kanore-Batambis-Sapi, Sapi to Rangdum via Rusila and Wakha La, Rangdum-Heniskote via Kanjila, Rangdum-Padum via Pangong La and Padum-Ralakung and Padum-Lamayuru.
The official spokesperson of the Jammu and Kashmir government said in a media statement that one of the major attractions of the state, particularly in the Ladakh region, is the vast scope it offers for trekking.
"The trekking avenues available range from short to day-long trek up and down mountain slopes, to long trans-mountain traverses involving week of trekking and camping in the wilderness.
"The south-west flanks for the Ladakh region, particularly the Suru and Zanaskar valleys, offer a variety of trekking routes involving the crossing of world's greatest mountain range through various passes in its crest," the statement read.
The trekking routes the government plans to open were traditionally used by the locals for trade and travel since ancient times. The cross-Himalayan trek passes through high pass and amidst scenic splendors, wild fauna and flora.
Delegations from Kargil had in recent past visited the Governor and asked to promote tourism in the area. "Now that youth across India are inclined more towards adventure activities, these treks along with other cross-Himalayan treks can be a well sought-after destination," according to Governor Malik.
He pointed out during the SAC meeting that the opening of these trekking routes will provide employment to the local population, particularly in Kargil region, and help to showcase the tourism potential of the state.
Sajjad Hussain, a tour and travel agent based in Kargil town, said tourists coming to Ladakh mostly visited Leh district as a result Kargil mostly remained ignored. "However, if these peaks are thrown open for trekkers, we could hope for a hike in business in coming months," said Hussain.
Addressing the nation from the ramparts of the Red Fort on the occasion of 73rd Independence Day, Modi said: "I want to announce a major decision from the Red Fort: India will have a Chief of Defence Staff -- CDS. This is going to make the forces even more effective. The new CDS post will oversee all the three wings of the armed forces."
The creation of a CDS post had been a major recommendation of the Kargil Review Committee -- of integration of the three services -- Army, Navy and Air Force -- under a Chief of Defence Staff. However, no concrete action was taken on this, until now.
The government appointed Lt Gen D.B. Shekatkar (Retd) as head of an 11-member committee to recommend measures to enhance the combat capability of the armed forces and re-balance defence expenditure.
The committee suggested a four-star Chief of Defence Staff as the chief military adviser to the Defence Minister.
The Prime Minister's announcement was immediately welcomed by former Army chief General Ved Prakash Malik (retd), who was the army chief during the Kargil War.
"Thank you PM Modi for announcing historic step of institution of CDS. This step will make our national security more effective and more economical. It will ensure better jointmanship and multi-disciplinary Acoordination. Salute," he tweeted.
IAF Chief B S Dhanoa will resurrect the 17 squadron at an event on Tuesday at the Ambala Air Force Station as it prepares to receive the Rafale jets, official sources said.
The 'Golden Arrows' 17 Squadron was commanded by Air Chief Marshal Dhanoa during the Kargil war in 1999.
The squadron, which operated from Bhatinda air base, was disbanded in 2016 after the IAF started gradual phasing out of Russian-origin Mig 21 jets.
The squadron was formed in 1951, and initially it flew de Havilland Vampire F Mk 52 fighters.
India is expected to receive the first Rafale jet by end of this month.
The IAF has already completed preparations, including readying required infrastructure and training of pilots, to welcome the fighter aircraft.
The sources said the first squadron of the aircraft will be deployed at the Ambala Air Force Station, considered one of the most strategically located bases of the IAF. The Indo-Pak border is around 220 km from there.
The second squadron of Rafale will be stationed at Hasimara base in West Bengal.
India had inked an inter-governmental agreement with France in September 2016 for procurement of 36 Rafale fighter jets at a cost of around Rs 58,000 crore.
A number of IAF teams have already visited France to help Dassault Aviation, the manufacturer of Rafale, incorporate India-specific enhancements on-board the fighter aircraft
The Rafale jets will come with various India-specific modifications, including Israeli helmet-mounted displays, radar warning receivers, low band jammers, 10-hour flight data recording, infra-red search and tracking systems among others.
The Congress raised several questions about the deal, including on rates of the aircraft, and alleged corruption but the government has rejected the charges.
The IAF spent around Rs 400 crore to develop required infrastructure like shelters, hangers and maintenance facilities at the two bases.
In July 2017, Air Chief Marshal B S Dhanoa, during his visit to France, flew a Rafale jet at the Saint-Dizier airbase to gain first-hand experience of the aircraft.
According to the deal, the delivery of the jets was to be completed in 67 months from the date the contract was inked.
The fighter aircraft took to the skies one last time at the Jodhpur airbase where the only IAF squadron that operates the MiG 27 is based.
The MiG-27, code-named 'Bahadur' in India, has had an impeccable track record in its more than three decades of glorious service to the nation.
"These aircraft have made an immense contribution to the nation, both during peace and war. The fleet earned its glory in the historic Kargil conflict when it delivered rockets & bombs with accuracy on enemy positions. The fleet also took an active part in Op-Parakram," the Ministry of Defence said.
The upgraded MiG 27, because of its survivability, has also participated in numerous national and international exercises.
The formidable strike aircraft of Russian origin has the single most powerful engine in the world and variable geometry wing which allows the pilot to change the wing sweep angle while flying as per the mission requirements to achieve optimum flying characteristics.
The Number 29 Squadron is the only unit in the IAF operating the MiG-27 upgrades, the Defence Minister said. The squadron was raised on March 10, 1958, at Air Force Station Halwara with Ouragan (Toofani) aircraft. "Over the years, the Squadron has been equipped with numerous types of fighters such as MiG-21 Type 77, MiG-21 Type 96, MiG-27 ML and MiG-27 upgrade," the ministry said.
"The Squadron is now slated to be number plated on 31 March 2020 with 27 December 2019 being its last flying day thereby making the swing-wing fleet a part of IAF's glorious past," MoD said.
"Veteran air warriors along with serving air warriors are taking part in the ceremony. Air Marshal S.K. Ghotia VSM, Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief South Western Air Command are presiding over the wind-down ceremony," the defence ministry said.
This swing-wing fighter bomber was inducted into the IAF fleet in the late 1980s. Being a dedicated ground-attack aircraft, it was one of the main strike aircraft of the IAF.
"With its sophisticated avionics and weapon computers, it is capable of delivering a variety of loads in different modes of attack with immense precision," the ministry said.
The pilots proudly call themselves 'Swing Wingers' and have always vouched for the aircraft's precise weapon delivery and rapid acceleration.
"This formidable ground-attack fighter aircraft has served the Nation for over three decades. Inducted in 1985, MiG-27 has been the mainstay of IAF's ground attack capability. It has participated in all major #IAF operations and has played a stellar role in the 1999 Kargil War," the IAF said in a series of tweets.
(IANS)
While some of them made supreme sacrifice fighting for the motherland, many returned to the State with grave injuries.
Gopinath Moharana of Janardanpur village under Nischintakoili block in Cuttack district attained martyrdom in the Kargil war at the age of 23.
Remembering Moharana’s last visit to village, his mother Jhumuri said, "I visit to my son’s statue everyday and recall his bravery. I am proud of my son."
Remembering Gangaram Das, another martyred from Harida village in Balasore, members of Gangaram Smruti Committee on Sunday organised a prayer meeting to pay tributes to the brave son of the soil.
“Martyr Gangaram’s sacrifice will be remembered forever. We have been demanding to name the road connecting Kuruda and Mathasahi after Gangaram, but the district administration is yet to pay heed to our demand,” said Sushant Kumar Parida, a local.
Villagers of Panguda village under Chandbali block in Bhadrak also remembered the bravery and extreme sacrifice of Niranjan Behera and paid tribute to him.
“Niranjan will remain in our hearts forever. He has made our village and the State proud,” said Biswakeshari Mohanty, a local.
The Indian armed forces had defeated Pakistan on July 26, 1999. Since then, the country celebrates the day as Kargil Vijay Diwas to rekindle the pride and valour of the brave soldiers who took part in 'Operation Vijay'.
A total of 527 Indian soldiers lost their lives in the Operation which lasted for more than two months.
(Edited By Pradeep Singh)
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Pakistan Backstabbed India In Kargil, But India Triumphed: PM Modi In Mann Ki Baat
Addressing his monthly radio program ‘Mann Ki Baat' on the occasion of 21st anniversary of Kargil War victory, the Prime Minister was in his words. He cited a Sanskrit phrase "Bairu akaran sab kahu sau, Jo kar heet anheet tahu sau" which roughly translates into "dusht" (wicked) who thinks evil of even those who mean "good".
This powerful assertion comes soon after Modi used the term "Bharat ki bhoomi hathyane" (land grab) by Pakistan during the Kargil War, which Modi said was an effort to "divert attention from its internal quarrels". While the Prime Minister was hitting out at Pakistan which was met with India's resolute force, the subtle message to China was unmissable.
Just last June, during his last Mann Ki Baat, Modi was unsparingly lethal on China when he said, "The world has seen India's commitment to protecting its borders and sovereignty. In Ladakh, a befitting reply has been given to those coveting our territory". That time around too, he used Sanskrit phrases like "Vidya vivaad dhanam madaya, Shakti pareshan paripeedanaya. Khalasya sadho vipareetam etat, gyaanaya, daanaya cha rakshanam" to dub China as "crooked". Even then, Modi did not mention China but made it apparent his dig was directed at the dragon.
The reference to "land grab" in Kargil by Pakistan, and how they faced a humiliating defeat was believed to be a message for China as well, which recently indulged in border trespassing at Line of Actual Control in eastern Ladakh which was strongly thwarted by the Indian Army. Both sides faced casualties in the violent face off at the Galwan Valley.
In a significant statement, Modi said that what any Indian says has a profound effect on the morale of a soldier fighting in the hilly terrain. He also urged Indians to be mindful of that selfless soldier while indulging in "forwarded messages" which often can weaken the strong will of India's bravehearts.
It was a clear indication to some of the conspiracy theories and alleged "surrender" barbs that few, particularly affiliated with the opposition parties have made against the government recently. The Congress has been consistent in its claim that India lost its share of land to China, an assertion that the Modi himself has categorically rubbished.
(IANS)
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Pakistan Backstabbed India In Kargil, But India Triumphed: PM Modi In Mann Ki Baat
The Indian armed forces had defeated the Pakistan army in Kargil during July 1999. Since then this day is celebrated as 'Kargil Vijay Diwas'.
"Saluting the valour and courage of our brave hearts of the Indian Armed Forces who laid down their lives fighting for our Nation, all to keep all of us safe. Jai Hind," Kohli said in a tweet from his official Twitter handle.
Saluting the valour and courage of our brave hearts of the Indian Armed Forces who laid down their lives fighting for our Nation, all to keep all of us safe. 🙏🏼 Jai Hind 🇮🇳 #KargilVijayDiwas
— Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) July 26, 2020
"The countless stories of valour & selfless sacrifices of our Flag of India Defence Forces during the Kargil War are awe-inspiring. We shall always remain indebted to their service to our nation!" Tendulkar said in a tweet.
The countless stories of valour & selfless sacrifices of our 🇮🇳 Defence Forces during the Kargil War are awe-inspiring.
We shall always remain indebted to their service to our nation! 🙏🏻 #KargilVijayDiwas pic.twitter.com/qfrMNZybun— Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) July 26, 2020
India's Test vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane wrote on Twitter: "We shall never forget the invincible spirit and valour of the heroes who sacrifice their lives for our nation's safety. Proud of our armed forces. Jai Hind!"
We shall never forget the invincible spirit and valour of the heroes who sacrifice their lives for our nation's safety.
Proud of our armed forces.
Jai Hind! 🇮🇳#KargilVijayDiwas pic.twitter.com/YCBJzjPpPh— Ajinkya Rahane (@ajinkyarahane88) July 26, 2020
"Remembering the selfless sacrifices of our brave soldiers who gave up their lives protecting our nation," wrote India batsman KL Rahul on his Twitter account.
Remembering the selfless sacrifices of our brave soldiers who gave up their lives protecting our nation. 🙏 #KargilVijayDiwas
— K L Rahul (@klrahul11) July 26, 2020
Stylish former India batsman V.V.S. Laxman wrote on Twitter: "Tribute to all the bravehearts on #KargilVijayDivas. Always indebted to the gallantry and sacrifice of our armed forces. Jai Hind !"
"Bowing my head in reverence and remembrance of all the heroes of the Kargil war on the 21st #VijayDiwas today. A salute to our Armed Forces for their exemplary valour. Forever indebted to you," Paralympics silver medallist Deepa Malik wrote on her Twitter account.
Olympic bronze-medallist shooter Gagan Narang added: "I salute the courage and selflessness of our brave soldiers on the occasion of Kargil Vijay Diwas. The armed forces are our nation's pride, and we will forever be indebted to them. Jai Hind."
"Tributes to our braves on #KargilVijayDiwas2020 Thank you Indian Army for your courage and sacrifices for our nation !! Jai Hind," wrote Indian women's team captain Rani Rampal on Twitter.
Tributes to our braves on #KargilVijayDiwas2020
Thank you Indian Army for your courage and sacrifices for our nation !!
Jai Hind🇮🇳 pic.twitter.com/SDz87BX9dL
— Rani Rampal (@imranirampal) July 26, 2020
Indian shooting sensation Manu Bhaker also paid her tributes.
झंडा ऊँचा रहे हमारा। सेना के अदम्य साहस, शौर्य, वीरता का प्रतीक #कारगिल_विजय_दिवस । देश को शानदार जीत दिलाने वाले सभी जाबंजो को नमन।
जय हिंद।जय भारत #IndianArmy @BhakerRamkishan @BhakerSumedha pic.twitter.com/6itCdlBsOt— Manu Bhaker (@realmanubhaker) July 26, 2020
"Our flag shall remain high. #Kargil_Vijay_Divas, a symbol of indomitable courage and valor of the army. Salute to all the brave hearts who won the country a grand victory," Tokyo Olympics hopeful pistol shooter Bhaker wrote on Twitter.
(IANS)
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