kargilinternationalmarathon@gmail.com
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Pune-based NGO Sarhad shares a close bond with Kargil and its surrounding areas since 1998. Sarhad has also been supporting education of over 39 students from this part of the country. Sarhad has been taking care of Kargil students for their education for the past two decades.
The Indian Army, in collaboration with the Sarhad Foundation, Pune, is hosting a marathon to commemorate the Platinum Jubilee of Zoji La Battle and Rajat Jayanti of OPERATION VIJAY. The significant event features five runs, each with its unique distance. The first run is Shauryathon covering challenging 44 Km from Zojila War Memorial (11,575 ft) to Kargil War Memorial, Dras (10,800 ft). Second run, Kargil Vijay Diwas Rajat Jayanti run of 25 Km will start and culminate at Kargil War Memorial, Dras. The other runs are Tiger Hill run spanning 10 Km, Zoji La War Memorial Platinum Jubilee run of 7.5 Km and the Future Heroes run covering 4 Km for young children.
The marathon takes place in the pristine high-altitude area, starting from icy heights of Zoji La to OPERATION VIJAY Battle ground, Dras. This initiative serves as a tribute to the valor and sacrifice exhibited by Indian Armed forces during these historic military Operations. It is an apt tribute to our Bravehearts who sacrificed so as to safeguard our future. This marathon encompasses a range of challenging runs, emphasizing both endurance and respect. Let us all mark our respects and be part of this noble deed and enjoy the challenge and beauty offered by the mighty mountains. The marathon will challenge our limits and will give us fond memories to cherish for a life time.
OPERATION VIJAY in 1999, also known as the Kargil war was a conflict between India and Pakistan. Pakistani soldiers and irregulars infiltrated the Dras, Kargil and Batalik region in Jammu and Kashmir and in response Indian Armed forces launched a counter offensive to reclaim the territory. The Indian Armed forces responded fiercely to Pakistans misadventure with a large-scale military operation, involving ground forces, artillery, air force and Naval operations. The challenging terrain and high altitude in the region added complexity to the military maneuvers. The Indian Army displayed exceptional Bravery and resilience in battling all odds and come out victorious.
The Kargil war was a three-month long skirmish which commenced in May 1999 when approx 1500 Pakistani soldiers intruded into the Indian territory with an aim of severing link between Kashmir and Ladakh. In a systematically planned and methodically executed operation, the dominating peaks occupied by the enemy were attacked and recaptured. The operation was a unique display of Bravery, resolve and commitment under inhospitable conditions of terrain and weather. By July 26 1999, the Indian Armed forces managed to recapture Kargil heights and this day is celebrated as Kargil Vijay Diwas. During the operation more than 650 Indian soldiers made the supreme sacrifice and were awarded four Param Vir Chakra, 10 Maha Vir Chakra and 70 Vir Chakra among others for gallantry.
Operation Vijay showcased the professionalism and determination of the Indian Armed Forces in safeguarding the nation’s borders and ensuring the territorial integrity of the region. The sacrifices made by the Indian Armed forces during the conflict are commemorated annually on Kargil Vijay Diwas. To pay lasting tributes to our Bravehearts, year 2024 will mark the Rajat Jayanti of Kargil War and we shall pay our respects to the Bravehearts.
Exactly 75 years ago the Indian Army pulled off the unthinkable and stopped evil design of Pakistan military in its tracks. The Battle of Zoji La took place during the Indo- Pakistan war of 1947-48 in the Zoji La pass, a crucial mountain pass connecting Kashmir with Ladakh. The harsh terrain and extreme weather conditions posed formidable challenges but against all odds the Indian Armed forces secured the pass, ensuring critical supply line to Ladakh and influencing the course of the war.
In May 1948, Zoji La fell to the Pakistani raiders and it was vital for India that the pass be recaptured before winter so as to relieve Leh. OPERATION BISON was thus launched to wrest control of Zoji La Pass. Stuart MK-V light tanks of Indian Army were moved in a dismantled condition through Srinagar to Baltal. This ingenious move and surprise attack by Infantry on 01 November 1948 successfully captured Zoji La and pushed back the Pakistani troops to Matayan. These tanks came as a bolt from the blue for Pakistani soldiers and tribesmen. The highly demoralised enemy ran for their lives.
The Battle of Zoji La remains a testament to the valor and determination exhibited by Indian Army in challenging high-altitude warfare. Faced with harsh himalayan terrain and adverse weather conditions, Indian Army overcame immense challenges to secure the strategically vital Zoji La pass. The soldiers resilience and courage during the battle underscore the Indian Army’s commitment to defending the nation’s borders, even in the most demanding environments.
The Kargil marathon will go a long way to promote sports activities and tourism in Kargil. The youth have immense potential and talent. We have requested Sarhad NGO to conduct skill enhancement training programmes for students to help them excel in sports activities. - Feroz Kachu Ahmed Khan, CEC, Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council, Kargil
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Sarhad has played a major role in taking ahead the objectives of the Central Government and Army. Indian Army supports the Kargil marathon which is being organized by Sarhad in association with Kargil Police and Kargil District Administration.
– Gen. MM Naravane, (Army Chief)
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