The Kargil War, witnessed numerous acts of bravery and sacrifice. Among the gallant soldiers who etched their names in history was Captain Anuj Nayyar, MVC of 17 JAT. Captain Nayyar displayed exceptional valour and selfless devotion to duty, making his story a testament to the indomitable spirit of the Indian Armed Forces during the intense war in the Kargil Sector. It serves as a reminder of the extraordinary individuals who laid down their lives for the country.
Early Life and Military Career
Captain Anuj Nayyar was born on 28 June 1975 in Delhi, India. From a young age, he displayed a keen interest in the military and resolved to join the Armed Forces. When a young Anuj Nayyar was waiting outside the Allahabad SSB Centre, he confidently told his father, “I am going to make it, Poppin. I promise you”. Inspired by stories of bravery and sacrifice, after completing his schooling from Army Public School, Dhaula Kuan, he pursued his dream by joining the National Defense Academy (NDA) in June 1993 as part of the 90thCourse. Thereafter, on completion of his training in the Indian Military Academy, Dehradun in June 1997, Captain Nayyar was commissioned into the Indian Army’s 17 JAT on 07 June 1997.
Known for their resilience and tenacity, the JAT Regiment has received numerous honours and awards. Captain Nayyar’s remarkable leadership skills and unwavering dedication to duty quickly earned him the respect and admiration of his fellow soldiers. It was this same commitment that would define his actions during the Kargil War.
The Kargil War and Captain Nayyar’s Heroic Acts
During the War, one of the most important features was Point 4875 which was held by the enemy. The 17 JAT was inducted into the Valley on 26 May 1999. The 17 JAT was tasked to capture features Pimple 1, Pimple 2 and Whale Back. Colonel Umesh Singh Bawa, the Commanding Officer, planned to launch the attack in two Phases. In the first Phase, he planned to attack Pimple 1 and Whale Back from South West and South respectively. He decided to capture Pimple 2 and North Spur in the second Phase. After successfully capturing features Pimple 1 and Whale Back in Phase 1 of the assault on 05 July 1999, the CO decided to halt for a day before launching Phase 2 of the attack. On 06 July 1999, 17 JAT launched attack on Pimple 2 from the direction of Whale Back. However, during the initial move, the Company Commander of the ‘C’ Company was seriously wounded and Captain Anuj Nayyar who was the Second-in-Command took charge.
Under intense enemy fire and adverse weather conditions, Captain Nayyar led his troops with exceptional courage and tactical acumen. As his troops approached the objective, they identified three to four enemy positions. The enemy had entrenched themselves and had complete control over the area. With relentless determination, Captain Nayyar devised a plan to neutralize the enemy’s fortified Sangars. Rocket Launcher and grenades were used on the enemy’s first position, but they were not successful in evicting the enemy. Captain Nayyar’s troops were severely outnumbered and outgunned. Yet he fearlessly manoeuvred his men through the assault, motivating them to fight against all odds. He led a frontal assault, risking his own life.
He advanced with the leading Section and engaged in a handto-hand combat with the enemy and cleared the first position.
The enemy was determined and fired back with heavy automatic fire. Captain Nayyar was tenacious while he fearlessly charged ahead, inspiring his troops to exhibit unparalleled bravery. He unmindful of his personal safety motivated his men to continue their assault and eventually cleared two other enemy positions. While trying to attack the fourth position, enemy launched a rocket grenade against his men, without thinking anything, in order to save his comrades and the operation, Captain Nayyar stood between his men and the enemy fire. He was hit by the RPG. Before he laid down his life, he had killed nine enemy soldiers and destroyed three Medium Machine Gun positions of the enemy.
Captain Nayyar’s tenacity, exceptional leadership and strategic acumen proved instrumental in regaining control of the strategic position, effectively weakening the enemy’s hold on the area. Captain Nayyar’s indomitable spirit motivated his men in achieving the objective. In an act of supreme sacrifice, he laid down his life for the nation, never wavering from his duty until his last breath. His sacrifice and unwavering determination to protect his comrades and his country resonated across India. He was posthumously awarded the nation’s second highest gallantry award in the face of enemy, Maha Vir Chakra.
Captain Nayyar’s bust standstall at Kargil War Memorial. His selfless sacrifice and unwavering bravery serve as a reminder of the extraordinary valour displayed by countless soldiers who laid down their lives for the nation. Captain Anuj Nayyar’s name will forever be etched in everyone’s hearts, inspiring future generations to strive for greatness and embody the true essence of patriotism.
