Kargil, July 02: In a poignant tribute to the bravery and sacrifice of the Indian Army, a commemorative bike rally was held today from the Old Kargil Memorial to Randhawa Top (Point 13620), celebrating the 25th anniversary of Kargil Vijay Diwas. This significant event, organized by the Indian Army in collaboration with SAEL and NGO Pawan Prithvi Paani, honored India’s resounding victory over Pakistan in the 1999 Kargil War.
The day began with a solemn wreath-laying ceremony at the Old Kargil Memorial, where Brigadier Prateek Prashar was the chief guest. The memorial, a testament to the courage and sacrifice of soldiers from the Kargil War and other battles since 1947, features plaques and inscriptions commemorating the valiant efforts of the Indian Army.
Following the ceremony, the recently renovated Kargil Heritage Hut was inaugurated. Opened to tourists in June 2023, the hut now houses vintage mine-protected vehicles such as the Rakshak and Cassiper, and features an “I Love India” selfie point with a breathtaking view of Point 13620.
This heritage site not only offers visitors a glimpse into the past but also symbolizes the strength and resilience of the Indian Armed Forces.
At 13,620 feet, Randhawa Top stands as a strategic and historical landmark in the Kargil region. The peak has been central to the Indo-Pak conflicts, witnessing crucial battles in all four wars between India and Pakistan since 1947.
The bike rally, which spanned approximately 35 kilometers, was flagged off from the Old Kargil Memorial to Randhawa Top. The challenging route, marked by serpentine curves and steep inclines, mirrored the formidable courage of the soldiers who fought to capture this strategic position from the enemy.
The rally saw enthusiastic participation from officers and men of the FOREVER IN OPERATIONS DIVISION, dignitaries from the civil administration including the Deputy Commissioner and Senior Superintendent of Police, ex-servicemen, and local bikers. Upon reaching Randhawa Top, participants took part in another wreath-laying ceremony at the memorial, followed by the unveiling of the new selfie point.
The bike rally served as a powerful prelude to the grand celebrations marking 25 glorious years of Kargil Vijay Diwas. It was a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by the soldiers and a celebration of the indomitable spirit that defines the Indian Armed Forces.
