On 25th anniversary, Kargil War hero Brig Khushal Thakur wants bravery tales included in school curriculum

MANDI: As India prepares to commemorate the 25th anniversary of the Kargil War on July 26, Brigadier Khushal Singh Thakur (Retd), who played a crucial role in the conflict, has shared his memories of the battle that shaped modern Indian military history.

In an interview with The Newz Radar, Brigadier Thakur recounted the significant contributions of his regiment, the 18 Grenadiers, particularly in capturing Tololing Peak, a turning point in the 1999 India-Pakistan war.

Commanding 18 Grenadiers during the conflict, Brigadier Thakur described the rapid transition from counter-insurgency operations in the valley to the challenging heights of Kargil. The regiment faced numerous challenges, including logistical constraints, inadequate equipment, and the need for rapid acclimatization to high-altitude conditions.

Despite these difficulties, the troops demonstrated exceptional resilience and professionalism. What initially appeared as enemy infiltration escalated into a full-scale war, with 18 Grenadiers and 2 Rajputana Rifles tasked with capturing the strategically vital Tololing.

The battle for Tololing, fought on June 12-13, 1999, came at a high cost. The regiment lost two officers, Lt Col Vishwanathan VrC (P) and Maj Rajesh Adhikari MVC (P), along with 23 other ranks. Despite these sacrifices, the successful capture of Tololing was a decisive victory that significantly impacted the course of the war.

Following the success at Tololing, Brigadier Thakur’s regiment, in collaboration with 8 Sikh, was assigned the daunting mission of recapturing Tiger Hill. The operation, conducted at an altitude of 17,500 feet, was critical due to the hill’s strategic position overlooking the Srinagar-Leh highway.

The attack, characterised by a surprise manoeuvre led by battalion commandos under Lieutenant Balwan Singh and supported by relentless artillery fire, resulted in the liberation of Tiger Hill on July 4, 1999. This victory, celebrated as a major achievement, boosted the morale of the Indian Army and marked a pivotal moment in the conflict.

Brigadier Thakur expressed deep pride in the unwavering courage and patriotism displayed by his soldiers, who endured extreme conditions and relentless enemy fire. The Kargil War officially ended on July 26, 1999, with India successfully reclaiming the occupied heights in Ladakh.

For their extraordinary bravery, 18 Grenadiers were awarded 52 gallantry awards, including a Param Vir Chakra, two Maha Vir Chakra and six Vir Chakra, setting a record for the most gallantry awards received by a single unit in a military operation.

As the nation honours the heroes of the Kargil War, Brigadier Thakur emphasised the importance of recognising and supporting the families of fallen soldiers, acknowledging their sacrifices and resilience. He also highlighted the significance of including stories of heroism from the Kargil War in educational curricula to inspire future generations.

On this 25th anniversary, Brigadier Thakur paid tribute to the bravery and sacrifices of the soldiers, expressing his deep gratitude and pride in having led such exemplary men. He urged the nation to remember these heroes not only on commemorative occasions but continually celebrate their legacy and contributions to India’s security and sovereignty.