Kargil War | Why it happened? | Real Story of Vikram Batra | Shershaah | Dhruv Rathee

Summary

The video script recounts the Kargil War of 1999, a pivotal conflict between India and Pakistan sparked by Pakistan's infiltration of Indian territory, leading to a full-scale war. Highlighting key figures like Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee and war hero Captain Vikram Batra, the narrative details military operations, international diplomacy, and the bravery of soldiers. The script also touches on the aftermath, including political upheaval in Pakistan and the recognition of Indian soldiers' sacrifices, culminating in the declaration of Kargil Vijay Diwas.

Takeaways

• 📅 The Kargil War took place in 1999 between India and Pakistan, centered around the Kargil region and involving international intrigue.
• 🏔️ The conflict began when Pakistani soldiers infiltrated Indian territory, occupying over 130 posts and aiming to block the strategic NH 1 highway.
• 🤝 The 1972 Simla Agreement was breached by Pakistan's actions, which was a peace agreement signed by both countries to not violate the Line of Control (LoC).
• 🌐 India's restraint in not crossing the LoC during the conflict was a diplomatic strategy to show the world it was fighting a defensive war.
• 🛫 The Indian Airforce played a crucial role, with Operation Safed Sagar marking the first time India used air power in such a conflict.
• 🔄 International support for India's stance grew, with entities like the European Union, ASEAN Regional Forum, and the United States backing India's cause.
• 🏞️ The harsh weather and high altitude of the region posed significant challenges for the soldiers, with temperatures dropping to -40°C.
• 🛡️ The Battle of Tololing was a turning point in the war, with Indian forces facing difficult conditions to recapture the strategic hill.
• 🎖️ Captain Vikram Batra, known as Shershaah, was a prominent war hero whose story was later depicted in the film 'Shershaah' on Amazon Prime Video.
• 🏅 The Indian Army's bravery was recognized with the Param Vir Chakra, India's highest gallantry medal, awarded to four soldiers including Captain Vikram Batra.
• 🏳️ The Kargil War officially ended on 26th July with the Indian Army announcing the complete eviction of intruders, now celebrated as Kargil Vijay Diwas.

Q & A

What is the Kargil War?

The Kargil War was a conflict between India and Pakistan that took place in 1999. It started when Pakistani soldiers infiltrated Indian territory in the Kargil district of Kashmir, leading to a full-fledged war. The war is named after the Kargil district and is also known as the Kargil War of 1999.

What triggered the Kargil War?

The Kargil War was triggered by the infiltration of Indian territory by Pakistani soldiers. This was a well-planned attack by the Pakistani Army, with the aim of blocking the critically important national highway NH 1, potentially cutting off Kashmir from Ladakh. The operation was codenamed Operation Badr.

How did the international community react to the Kargil War?

The international community largely supported India in the Kargil War. The European Union, ASEAN Regional Forum, the United States, G8 Countries, and others backed India's stance. The then US President Bill Clinton pressured Pakistan to withdraw its soldiers, and the world saw India as being in the right and Pakistan in the wrong.

What was the significance of the Battle of Tololing in the Kargil War?

The Battle of Tololing was a turning point in the Kargil War. It was a difficult task for the Indian Forces to recapture the Tololing Hill, which was at a height of 16,000 feet and under constant enemy fire. The successful recapture of Tololing Hill marked a significant victory for the Indian forces.

What was Operation Vijay?

Operation Vijay was the code name for the counterattack launched by the Indian Army against the Pakistani intrusion. The operation aimed to push out the Pakistani troops from Indian territory and was a major military campaign during the Kargil War.

What was the role of the Indian Air Force in the Kargil War?

The Indian Air Force played a crucial role in the Kargil War. They launched Operation Safed Sagar (White Sea) on 26th May, aiming to drive out the Pakistani troops from Indian territory. It was the first time India had deployed air-power in such an environment, and the operation significantly contributed to the eventual victory.

Who was Captain Vikram Batra and why is he famous?

Captain Vikram Batra was one of the most famous war heroes of the Kargil War. Known by his code name Shershaah (Lion King), he led successful missions to capture strategic points in the war. His bravery and leadership were recognized posthumously, and his story was later depicted in the film 'Shershaah' on Amazon Prime Video.

What was the significance of the capture of Tiger Hill?

The capture of Tiger Hill was a major victory for the Indian Army during the Kargil War. It was a strategic point with a vertical cliff of 1,000 feet, and the Indian Army surprised the enemy by climbing this cliff using mountaineering equipment. The successful mission at Tiger Hill helped seal India's victory in the war.

What was the diplomatic victory for India in the Kargil War?

India's restraint in not crossing the Line of Control (LoC) into Pakistan during the Kargil War was a significant diplomatic victory. This restraint demonstrated to the international community that India was engaged in a defensive war, aiming only to protect its territory and not to escalate the conflict.

What is Kargil Vijay Diwas and why is it celebrated?

Kargil Vijay Diwas is celebrated on 26th July every year to commemorate India's victory in the Kargil War. It marks the day when the Indian Army announced that all intruders had been completely evicted from the Indian territory, officially ending the war.