The Kargil War of 1999 etched a saga of bravery into the annals of Indian military history. Amongst the units at the forefront of this fight stood the 5th Battalion the Parachute Regiment (5 PARA). Their valour is a testament to the unwavering spirit of the Indian soldier. From Siachen to the Battlefield: Originally stationed in the treacherous Siachen Glacier, 5 PARA commanded by Colonel AK Srivastava was swiftly inducted into the conflict. “C” Company arrived by helicopter in May 1999, followed by “A” Company in June. Both Companies were thrust into the heart of the fight – the Batalik Sector, a harsh and unforgiving landscape perched at over 17,000 feet. Scaling Heights of Valor: The capture of Point 5203 stands as a defining moment of 5 PARA’s courage. Led by Captain B M Cariappa and Lieutenant Surinder Kumar, an “A” Company assault force, alongside Ladakh Scouts, launched a surprise attack on the night of 20 June 1999. Scaling the treacherous South Western face under the cloak of darkness, they reached the summit before dawn. A fierce close-quarter battle ensued, but the enemy could not withstand the resolute Indian advance.In the ensuing fight, Captain B M Cariappa called for artillery fire upon his own position to beat back the enemy counter attack, he displayed unparalleled courage under fire. Pt 5203 was secured, with Pakistani casualties forcing their retreat.
Undeterred by Difficulty: The strategically crucial Munthu Dhalo Bowl became the next objective. Establishing a base at Khalubar Ridge, the Battalion meticulously planned a two-phased assault. On July 11th, “B” and “D” Companies, supported by 10 PARA (Special Forces) with “C” Company in reserve, spearheaded the attack, capturing Nalla Junction – a vital foothold for further operations.
Taking the Bowl, Bearing the Scars: Following the capture of Nalla Junction, “C” Company under Major Sameer Anukul launched a daring daylight attack on July 12th, securing Poin B Mt 4100 and opening the path to capturing the entire Munthu Dhalo bowl. This victory came at a cost, but the capture yielded a significant cache of enemy arms and supplies. Area Conical and Ring Contour: A Test of Resolve: “A” Company, under Captain Cariappa and Lieutenant V Dixit, faced a brutal ordeal on the night of 22 July, tasked with capturing Area Conical. Under relentless enemy fire, they fought their way to the top, suffering casualties yet refusing to yield. Their grit paid off as they repelled two counterattacks the following day.
A Story of Grit and Sacrifice: Simultaneously, “D” Company under Major HS Jaggi and Lieutenant Aditya Kumar faced an equally daunting challenge – capturing Ring Contour. Disaster struck during their ascent when Major Jaggi encountered a minefield. Despite his injuries and casualties within his team, he continued to lead the fight until evacuation.
On the South Eastern flank, Lieutenant Kumar’s Platoon displayed superhuman resilience. Infiltrating enemy positions, they held their ground for a gruelling 48 hours without food, water, or reinforcements, repelling two counterattacks despite heavy losses. The final assault on Ring Contour involved “C” Company under Major Anukul and Lieutenant Kumar, who scaled the peak with ropes and crampons in a daring feat of mountaineering and military prowess. On July 26th, Ring Contour was finally secured.
Beyond Duty, A Nation’s Gratitude: Throughout the conflict, 5 PARA faced a relentless enemy, unforgiving terrain, and brutal high-altitude conditions. Yet, their relentless attacks and unwavering courage dislodged Pakistani forces from Indian territory. While a ceasefire prevented further advancement, the sacrifice of the nine soldiers who fell in battle will forever be etched in the nation’s memory.
5 PARA’s story is not just about victory, but about the extraordinary courage displayed by its officers and men. It is a testament to the unwavering spirit of the Indian soldier, a spirit that continues to inspire generations to come.
