The Kargil War of 1999 remains one of the most significant military campaigns in the history of the Indian Armed Forces. The Indian Army launched its Operation Vijay to recapture strategic mountain positions occupied by Pakistani soldiers and intruders along the LoC. However, this would not have been possible without the regiments that fought in Kargil War.
However, even today, many people do not know about the regiments that fought in Kargil War, and ensured that the Tricolour remains hoisted even to the peril of their lives. Today, we tell you exactly about some of these heroes.
Regiments That Fought In Kargil War
Without any further delay, we start off with an account of the regiments that fought in Kargil War of 1999.
2 Rajputana Rifles
The 2 Rajputana Rifles is one of the regiments that fought in Kargil War. This regiment fought in the famous Battle of Tololing, which was one of the major turning points of the war. The capture of this strategically important feature on 13 June 1999 helped Indian forces advance towards other occupied heights in the Dras sector.
Some of the brave-heartsMajor Vivek Gupta, MVC, who led his men during the assault, was posthumously awarded the Maha Vir Chakra for his exceptional courage. Captain Vijayant Thapar, VrC, was also from 2 Rajputana Rifles, who became another symbol of sacrifice during the campaign. Their bravery continues to inspire generations of defence aspirants.
18 Grenadiers
The 18 Grenadiers was prominently involved in the battle for Tiger Hill, one of the most challenging objectives of Operation Vijay. The recapture of this important peak on 4 July 1999 marked a significant moment in the campaign.
Grenadier Yogendra Singh Yadav, despite suffering severe injuries while climbing an icy cliff under enemy fire, continued fighting and helped his platoon advance. He was awarded the Param Vir Chakra for his extraordinary bravery. Major Rajesh Adhikari of the same battalion also made the supreme sacrifice during the assault on Tololing.
These actions demonstrated the determination required to fight at extreme altitudes.
13 Jammu and Kashmir Rifles
The 13th Battalion of Jammu and Kashmir Rifles was another prominent unit during the Kargil War. It played a crucial role in operations to recapture important heights, including Point 5140 in the Dras sector and objectives in the Mushkoh Valley.
Captain Vikram Batra became one of the most celebrated heroes of the conflict after leading his men during the capture of Point 5140. His courage and leadership earned him the Param Vir Chakra posthumously. Rifleman Sanjay Kumar of the same battalion also received the Param Vir Chakra for his exceptional bravery during an assault in the Mushkoh Valley.
Their actions remain among the most remembered stories of Operation Vijay.
1/11 Gorkha Rifles
The 1st Battalion of the 11th Gorkha Rifles fought in the Batalik sector, where Indian troops faced difficult terrain and strongly defended enemy positions.
Captain Manoj Kumar Pandey distinguished himself during operations to capture enemy positions around Khalubar. Despite being wounded, he continued leading his men in the attack before making the supreme sacrifice. He was posthumously awarded the Param Vir Chakra.
His bravery reflects the courage displayed by soldiers who continued their missions despite overwhelming physical and tactical challenges.
12 Jammu and Kashmir Light Infantry
The 12th Battalion of Jammu and Kashmir Light Infantry also played an important role in the Batalik sector. Lieutenant Keishing Clifford Nongrum demonstrated remarkable courage during the assault on Point 4812.
Under heavy enemy fire, he pressed forward against fortified positions and continued fighting despite being wounded. His actions helped his troops advance towards their objective. He was posthumously awarded the Maha Vir Chakra.
The Role of Other Units in the Kargil War
The campaign involved many more formations and units, including the Ladakh Scouts, Garhwal Rifles, Naga Regiment, and several other infantry battalions. Artillery units provided vital fire support, while the Indian Air Force conducted operations under Operation Safed Sagar.
The success of Operation Vijay depended on coordination among infantry soldiers, artillery crews, engineers, and air support personnel. No single regiment could have achieved the campaign’s objectives independently.
Final Thoughts
The Kargil War was not the achievement of one regiment but the collective success of numerous Indian Army units and supporting services. From Tololing and Tiger Hill to the heights of Batalik and the Mushkoh Valley, their courage helped India reclaim its occupied positions. The sacrifices of these soldiers remain a powerful reminder of the professionalism, teamwork, and determination that define the Indian Armed Forces.
