As India marks the 26th anniversary of the Kargil War, it is important to remember the extraordinary sacrifice made by soldiers from Jammu & Kashmir, Haryana, Punjab, and Himachal Pradesh. Although these four states account for just about 6% of India’s population, they contributed nearly 40% of the total Kargil war casualties. Out of 527 soldiers who lost their lives during the conflict, 213 were from these states, underlining the profound loss experienced by this region.
State-wise Casualties and Population Share
State | Kargil War Casualties | Percentage of India’s Population |
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Jammu & Kashmir | 69 | 1.04% |
Haryana | 58 | 2.09% |
Punjab | 45 | 2.29% |
Himachal Pradesh | 41 | 0.56% |
Total | 213 | 5.98% |
This data was officially presented in the Lok Sabha on July 27, 2000. While Uttar Pradesh recorded the highest casualties at 147, the deep impact on the four states mentioned remains significant.
Legendary Heroes from the Region
Captain Vikram Batra, Param Vir Chakra (Posthumous)
Known as the iconic hero of the Kargil War, Captain Batra of the 13 JAK Rifles captured two vital peaks—Peak-5140 and Peak-4875. His famous slogan “Yeh Dil Mange More” and nickname “Shershah” have become legendary. A native of Palampur, Himachal Pradesh, he was posthumously awarded the highest gallantry award, the Param Vir Chakra (PVC).
Subedar Sanjay Kumar, Param Vir Chakra
Also from Himachal Pradesh and part of 13-JAK Rifles, Subedar Kumar showed extraordinary bravery during an assault on Point 4875. Despite severe injuries, he single-handedly charged enemy positions and neutralized multiple foes.
Colonel Balwan Singh, Maha Vir Chakra
Hailing from Haryana, Colonel Singh led the daring assault on Tiger Hill. Using mountaineering equipment to stealthily scale the heights, his leadership was critical to the mission’s success. He was awarded the Maha Vir Chakra (MVC), the country’s second-highest gallantry honor.
Captain Amol Kalia, Vir Chakra (Posthumous)
From Himachal Pradesh, Captain Kalia led a tough assault on Point 5203, capturing the enemy position despite heavy resistance. He fought bravely in hand-to-hand combat before succumbing to injuries.
Other Notable Martyrs and Gallantry Awardees
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Squadron Leader Ajay Ahuja (Vir Chakra): The first Indian Air Force casualty of the war, shot down on May 27, 1999.
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Lance Naik Ghulam Mohammad Khan (Vir Chakra): From Baramulla, J&K, recognized for his courageous actions during Point 5203 assault.
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Major Ajay Jasrotia (Sena Medal Posthumous): From Jammu, provided critical aid to wounded soldiers under heavy shelling.
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Brigadier Kushal Thakur (Yudh Seva Medal): Led 18-Grenadiers in capturing key positions like Tiger Hill.
Kargil War Timeline — Key Events
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May 6, 1999: Indian Army patrol spots infiltrators in Batalik sector.
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May 7: Pakistan artillery shells Indian patrols.
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May 8: First combat clash with infiltrators.
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May 15: Captain Saurabh Kalia captured by Pakistan forces.
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June 13: Tololing ridgeline recaptured after intense fighting.
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July 5: Tiger Hill, a strategic high point, is captured.
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July 26: War officially ends; Victory Day (Vijay Diwas) celebrated annually.
War Facts and Figures
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Number of Intruders: Initially reported as 100, later estimates placed it at 3,000.
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Casualties: 527 Indian soldiers killed; 1,363 wounded.
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Troop Deployment: Approximately 730,000 troops with over 60 frontline aircraft.
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Terrain: Rugged, high-altitude peaks exceeding 16,000 feet in the cold desert of Ladakh.
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Air Operations: Over 550 sorties flown, including MiG-21s, MiG-27s, Jaguars, and Mirage-2000s.
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Artillery: More than 250,000 shells, bombs, and rockets fired—the highest rate since WWII.
Conclusion
The Kargil War stands as a testament to the courage, sacrifice, and resilience of Indian soldiers, especially those from Jammu & Kashmir, Haryana, Punjab, and Himachal Pradesh. Their bravery and dedication played a crucial role in defending India’s sovereignty under some of the harshest conditions imaginable. Every year on July 26, the nation honors their sacrifice and celebrates the victory achieved through sheer valor and unity.