New Delhi, September 8 (Daily Kiran) : Captain Vikram Batra’s indomitable spirit during the Kargil War in 1999 forced Pakistan to rethink its military strategy. As the nation prepares to commemorate his birth anniversary on September 9, 1974, Batra remains a symbol of courage and inspiration for many.
Born to Giridhari Lal and Kamal Kanta Batra in Palampur, Himachal Pradesh, Vikram was affectionately nicknamed ‘Love’ by his parents. He was one of two twin sons, alongside his brother Vishal, also known as ‘Kush.’ Both boys excelled in academics and sports, but Vikram’s fearless nature set him apart. Inspired by stories of valor from the television series “Param Vir Chakra,” he often engaged in discussions about heroism.
An accomplished table tennis player and a top student, Vikram earned the title of ‘Best Cadet’ during his time in the National Cadet Corps (NCC). He turned down a lucrative offer from the Merchant Navy to pursue his dream of serving in the Indian Army. After completing his training at the Indian Military Academy in Dehradun in 1996, he was commissioned as a lieutenant in the 13 Jammu and Kashmir Rifles.
When Pakistan occupied heights in Kargil, the Indian Army launched Operation Vijay. This was the moment when Vikram Batra made history. Tasked with capturing Point 5140, a stronghold considered nearly impossible to conquer, he famously declared, “I will either return waving the tricolor or wrapped in it. But I will return.”
Amidst heavy enemy fire, he and his soldiers scaled a rocky cliff, throwing grenades to destroy the enemy’s position. In hand-to-hand combat, he eliminated three Pakistani soldiers. Despite sustaining injuries, he remained on the battlefield until the mission was complete. On June 20, 1999, at an altitude of 17,000 feet, when Point 5140 was secured, his voice echoed over the radio, proclaiming, “Yeh Dil Maange More!” This rallying cry transcended a mere advertisement and became a national sentiment.
Following this victory, Batra and his battalion successfully captured other formidable positions, including Point 5100, 4700, Junction Peak, and ‘Three Pimples.’ His bravery instilled fear in the Pakistani ranks, earning him the title ‘Sher Shah.’ On July 6, 1999, he was ordered to capture Point 4875, which is now known as Batra Top. After taking position, he rushed to aid a severely injured comrade, Captain Naveen Nagappa.
In a heroic attempt to save another soldier under fire, Vikram was struck by a sniper’s bullet. With his final breath, he shouted the battle cry of his regiment, “Jai Mata Di.” On July 7, 1999, India lost a true hero, but his sacrifice ensured the tricolor flew high at Point 4875.
In recognition of his valor and leadership, Captain Vikram Batra was posthumously awarded the Param Vir Chakra, India’s highest military honor, on August 15, 1999.
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