26 years on, Army retraces heroic ascent to Tololing to honour Kargil War heroes

Srinagar: In a stirring homage to the courage and sacrifice of India’s soldiers during the 1999 Kargil War, the Army on Thursday conducted a commemorative expedition to Tololing Peak — a pivotal battleground recaptured 26 years ago in a moment that changed the course of Operation Vijay.

On June 13, 1999, after days of fierce combat under hostile conditions, the Indian Army reclaimed Tololing, a heavily fortified position that gave Pakistani intruders a commanding view of the Srinagar-Leh highway.

To mark the anniversary, 37 soldiers from units that had fought in the Battle of Tololing undertook a grueling 12.5-km uphill trek, completing the 25-km round journey in just 11 hours.

The expedition was organised by the Forever in Operations Division of the Indian Army and flagged off from the Kargil War Memorial in Drass. The Indian Air Force also participated in the event, with officers and airmen joining the tribute — showcasing the enduring spirit of synergy and jointmanship that underpins India’s armed forces.

At the summit, the team hoisted the National Flag and regimental colours against the windswept heights of Tololing, chanting “Bharat Mata Ki Jai” as they remembered their fallen comrades.

The Battle of Tololing, fought at over 16,000 feet in bitter cold and against entrenched positions, was one of the bloodiest in the conflict. Its capture not only restored a vital tactical advantage but also became a symbolic victory that set the stage for further successes at Tiger Hill, Point 4875, and other critical heights.

Subedar Rajendra Kumar of 2 Rajputana Rifles, the unit that spearheaded the capture of Tololing, shared his memories. “We took this peak on June 13, 1999. I’m proud I was part of that battle. I came here to honour my friends who laid down their lives,” he said, his eyes moist with memory.

Recalling the brutal combat, he added, “The terrain was merciless. We carried more ammunition than food because survival depended on it. The enemy fired relentlessly and even pelted us with stones, but we didn’t give up. We recovered 17 enemy bodies after securing the position.”

Subedar Dariya Singh Yadav, another veteran of the battle, remembered the chaos and courage of that night. “It sounded like firecrackers due to the continuous gunfire. It was extremely cold, but being young, I was full of energy and enthusiasm to fight for the nation. Civilians helped us tremendously, transporting rations and ammunition all the way to the top of Tololing.”

Thursday’s expedition wasn’t just a physical journey — it was an emotional pilgrimage back to a moment that defined modern Indian military history.

As the country prepares to mark Kargil Vijay Diwas on July 26, this tribute to Tololing stands as a solemn reminder of the resilience, sacrifice, and unshakable resolve of the Indian soldier — past and present.