Operation Canopus Star

Rif Aleppo2 (20 October 2014)

Operation Canopus Star was a military operation conducted by the Indian Army during the Kargil War in 1999. The operation aimed to recapture key positions in the Kargil district of Jammu and Kashmir that had been occupied by Pakistani soldiers and militants.

Background

The Kargil War was a conflict between India and Pakistan that took place between May and July 1999 in the Kargil district of Jammu and Kashmir. The war was triggered by the infiltration of Pakistani soldiers and militants into Indian territory. The infiltrators occupied strategic positions on the Indian side of the Line of Control (LoC), the de facto border between the two countries.

Objectives

The primary objective of Operation Canopus Star was to recapture the Tololing complex, which included several key peaks and ridges. These positions were of strategic importance as they overlooked the Srinagar-Leh Highway, a vital supply route for the Indian Army.

Execution

The operation was launched in early June 1999. The Indian Army faced significant challenges due to the difficult terrain and the well-entrenched positions of the enemy. Despite these obstacles, the Indian forces managed to recapture the Tololing complex after intense fighting.

Outcome

The successful execution of Operation Canopus Star was a turning point in the Kargil War. It boosted the morale of the Indian forces and paved the way for subsequent operations to clear the remaining infiltrated positions. The recapture of the Tololing complex also ensured the security of the Srinagar-Leh Highway, which was crucial for the movement of troops and supplies.

Aftermath

The Kargil War officially ended on July 26, 1999, with the withdrawal of Pakistani forces from the Indian side of the LoC. The day is commemorated in India as Kargil Vijay Diwas.

Related Pages

• Kargil War
• Indian Army
• Jammu and Kashmir
• Line of Control (LoC)
• Srinagar-Leh Highway
• Kargil Vijay Diwas