Kargil Chronicles Day 4| Indian Army's Journey Of Tribute Underscores National Unity And Harmony

The Indian Army's journey highlights its dedication to national unity and religious harmony, with tributes to fallen soldiers at historical sites.

Kargil Chronicles Day 4: The fourth day of the journey commenced with a ceremony underscoring the Indian Army's dedication to religious harmony and national unity.

The flag-off event was led by a brigade, marking the beginning of the day's travels.

The team first stopped at Manasbal, 30 km from Srinagar, for a wreath-laying ceremony in honour of their coursemate, Lieutenant Colonel Rajesh Gulati. On February 11th, 2015, during a night mission, his helicopter collided with a ridge and crashed, resulting in the deaths of Lieutenant Colonel Rajesh Gulati and his co-pilot Major Taher Hussain Khan.

Kargil Chronicles Day 4: Tributes to Fallen Soldiers

Lieutenant Colonel Rajesh Gulati was commissioned into the 110 Medium Regiment of Artillery in 1998 before transitioning to the Army Aviation Corps. He became a skilled helicopter pilot and qualified flying instructor. His wife Sarika Gulati and son Sakam attended the ceremony and received a PVC cap from his coursemates.

The 101 Regulars also paid tribute to Flight Lieutenant Mayank Mayur from the Foxtrot Squadron of the NDA. Group Captain Manges Zadi led the wreath-laying ceremony for their fallen coursemate who died in 2004. Flight Lieutenant Mayank Mayur lost contact with ground control during a valley flying training mission in a four-aircraft formation.

Kargil Chronicles Day 4: Journey Through Historical Sites

From Manasbal, the riders navigated through snow-covered peaks and meandering rivers of Sonamarg. They made a mandatory stop at Captain Mor, constructed in memory of Captain ETC Vadera of the 13 Field Company Four Engineer Regiment. This road stretch was built in 1954 and has been remembered ever since.

The team crossed the Zoji La Pass, which holds historical significance as it fell to Pakistani raiders in May 1948. It was crucial for India to recapture this pass before winter set in. Operation Bison was launched involving a surprise attack by the 77 Para Brigade supported by three J&K Rifles and nine Jat Regiments, successfully capturing Zoji La on November 1st, 1948.

Kargil Chronicles Day 4: Memorable Stops Along The Route

After a refreshment break at Gumri Cafe, a popular stop along this route, the riders drove for an hour along breathtaking roads arriving at Dras. Known as India's coldest inhabited place, upon reaching Dras it felt like a reunion as they met fellow coursemates there.

This inspiring journey showcases the Army's dedication to honour fallen soldiers and preserve historical significance. It reflects camaraderie, resilience and national pride among its members.