India’s Response to the Kargil War

Source: The post India’s Response to the Kargil War has been created, based on the article “Lessons from Kargil: 25 years on” published in “Business standards” on 5th July 2024

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper3- security

Context: The article discusses the Kargil War between India and Pakistan in 1999. It examines the tactical, strategic, and diplomatic aspects of the conflict, highlighting India’s military and diplomatic responses, Pakistan’s initial tactics, and the international reactions. The piece also reviews the post-war improvements in India’s defense management highlighted by the Kargil Review Committee.

For detailed information on National Security Strategy of India read this article here

What Was the Kargil Conflict?

1. The Kargil War occurred between India and Pakistan in 1999, specifically from May to July, spanning 74 days.
2. It was fought in the Kargil sector of the Line of Control (LoC), the established border area in Kashmir.
3. This conflict resulted in significant casualties, with over 500 soldiers killed from each side.
4. The war was marked by Pakistan’s attempt to cut off Indian military supply lines by seizing control of strategic points along the Srinagar-Kargil-Leh road. This was intended to demonstrate Pakistan’s nuclear deterrent capability and force India to accept a new status quo without escalating to full-scale war.
5. The conflict underscored the volatile geopolitical tensions and the nuclear capabilities of both nations.

How Did India Respond?

1. India first proved Pakistan’s violation of the 1972 Shimla Agreement using intercepted calls between Pakistani generals.

2.India used a “graduated response” strategy, starting with artillery bombardment to weaken enemy positions.

3. The Indian Air Force bombed forward Pakistani positions and the logistic node of Muntho Dalo, cutting off supplies. Attack helicopters and glide bombs were used to support ground troops.
4. India’s military showcased effective tri-service operations without a formal tri-service doctrine.

What Was the International Reaction?

U.S. President Bill Clinton pressured Pakistan’s Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif. Clinton urged Sharif to withdraw troops north of the LoC. By the end of July 1999, the previous status was restored.

What Were the Post-War Changes in India?

Establishment of the Kargil Review Committee (KRC): India established the KRC to analyze its defense needs and shortcomings, marking the first serious assessment since independence.

Findings and Improvements: The KRC identified significant gaps in India’s security management, originally designed by Lord Ismay and recommended by Lord Mountbatten.

Creation of 14 Corps: Based on the KRC’s recommendations, India formed the 14 Corps specifically to manage the defense of Ladakh, separating it from the responsibilities of 15 Corps, which previously handled both Kashmir and Ladakh. This change aimed to enhance command efficiency in these strategic regions.

Question for practice:

Examine the tactical and diplomatic responses of India during the Kargil War of 1999.