United in Valour: How Soldiers and Civilians from J&K Turned the Tide in Kargil

The Kargil conflict, fought in 1999, is a testament to the valour and sacrifice of the Indian Armed Forces. Indian soldiers displayed exceptional courage and resilience in reclaiming strategic peaks in the Kargil-Drass sector, pushing back Pakistani intruders who had occupied these positions. The war will always be remembered for the acts of bravery and selflessness of our soldiers and even locals.

They displayed exceptional courage and determination during the war. The two regiments from the State - the Jammu Kashmir Rifles (JAK RIF) and Jammu Kashmir Light Infantry (JAK LI).

The 13 JAK RIF battalion displayed exceptional courage and grit throughout the war, with coordinated efforts from various officers and soldiers contributing to their successes in capturing key peaks. It received a total of more than twenty-five Gallantry awards, including two Param Vir Chakras. The battalion was also honoured with the title "Bravest of the Brave".

12 JAK LI's performance in Batalik was commendable. It earned a Unit Citation for its gallant performance in the battles of Point 5203 and Point 4812 in the Batalik sector.

Several brave soldiers and officers displayed exceptional valour and made significant contributions during the Kargil War. Major Ajay Singh Jasrotia, an army officer from Jammu, fought with distinction during the Kargil War. Subedar Bahadur Singh, also from Jammu, was another Kargil hero who displayed exceptional bravery. Havildar Madan Lal was another brave soldier from Jammu, whose contributions during the war are highly regarded. Sepoy Rajinder Singh, another soldier from Kathua, served with courage during the conflict. Lance Naik Ghulam Mohammed Khan from Sopore, Ravinder Singh, and Mohammad Khan from Kupwara also played a vital role in the war.

These are just a few examples of the many military personnel from Jammu and Kashmir who fought with distinction during the Kargil War. Their bravery and sacrifice continue to inspire.

Apart from these bravehearts from J&K, there were others who, although not from J&K, were part of the battalions from the State and fought valiantly. Captain Vikram Batra led the charge to capture Point 5140, famously declaring "Yeh Dil Maange More" after its successful capture.

He later played a key role in the capture of Point 4875, but tragically died during the operation. He was posthumously awarded the PVC. Rifleman Sanjay Kumar: He was tasked with capturing Flat Top at Point 4875. Despite being injured, he killed four enemy soldiers and captured the position. He was awarded the PVC for his bravery.

It is not just the soldiers from the State, but also the civilian population that played a key role in supporting the war effort and maintaining the morale of the soldiers.

When the Indian Army needed assistance in transporting supplies, ammunition, food, and other necessities to the front lines, particularly in the challenging high-altitude terrain where roads were absent, Ladakhi civilians, including women, stepped up to help.

Tsering Angmo Shunu, the Station Director of All India Radio (AIR) Leh and Kargil, played a vital role during the Kargil War by staying at her post despite heavy shelling and broadcasting messages to counter enemy propaganda and boost the morale of the soldiers. She also actively encouraged young Ladakhi men to volunteer and assist the army in carrying supplies.

The strong community spirit and resilience of the Ladakhi people, including the women, provided a crucial support system for the soldiers fighting on the front lines. The combined might of the military and the support of civilians were certainly responsible for beating back the enemy.

Ashu Maan is an Associate Fellow at the Centre for Land Warfare Studies. He was awarded the Vice Chief of the Army Staff Commendation card on Army Day 2025. He is pursuing a PhD from Amity University, Noida, in Defence and Strategic Studies. His research focuses include the India-China territorial dispute, great power rivalry, and Chinese foreign policy.