Twenty-Five Years of Operation Vijay

Operation Vijay, launched in 1999, was a pivotal moment in India’s military history, highlighting both the bravery of the Indian Armed Forces and the critical need for improved strategic intelligence and coordination. As we commemorate its twenty-fifth anniversary, it is vital to reflect on its lessons and the ongoing efforts to strengthen India’s defence capabilities.

By- Lt. Col. Manoj K. Channan

Operation Vijay, conducted in 1999, marks a significant chapter in India’s military history. This operation was launched in response to the infiltration of Pakistani soldiers and militants into the Kargil district of Kashmir. The conflict not only demonstrated the bravery and resilience of the Indian Armed Forces but also highlighted various strategic, logistical, and intelligence challenges that continue to shape India’s defence policies. As we commemorate the twenty-fifth anniversary of Operation Vijay, it is essential to reflect on its background, the subsequent recommendations, and the evolving defence landscape of India.

Background to the Operation

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Operation Vijay was initiated to flush out the Pakistani intruders who had captured strategic high-altitude positions on the Indian side of the Line of Control (LoC) in Kargil. The operation lasted from May to July 1999 and saw intense fighting in highly harsh terrain and weather conditions. Pakistani forces, disguised as militants, had crossed the LoC during the winter months when the high mountain passes were snowbound and unguarded. They occupied key positions overlooking the Srinagar-Leh highway, aiming to cut off the vital supply line to the Indian forces in Siachen and Ladakh.

The initial phase of the conflict saw significant challenges for the Indian forces, who demonstrated remarkable resilience and adaptability in the face of treacherous terrain and the enemy’s entrenched positions. The use of artillery, air strikes, and the relentless assault by infantry units were crucial in dislodging the well-entrenched intruders. The operation culminated in a significant victory for India, reclaiming all the occupied territories by the end of July 1999. This victory, achieved at a high cost with the loss of over 500 soldiers, underscored the importance of high-altitude warfare and the need for superior intelligence and logistics to prevent such infiltrations in the future.

K Subramaniam Report and Its Implementation

After the Kargil conflict, the Indian government commissioned the Kargil Review Committee (KRC), headed by the strategic affairs analyst K. Subrahmanyam, to analyse the lapses that led to the conflict and recommend measures to prevent such incidents. The KRC, a high-level committee of experts, was tasked with a comprehensive review of the entire conflict, from its inception to its resolution, and to provide strategic recommendations for the future. The KRC report, submitted in January 2000, highlighted significant intelligence failures and recommended a comprehensive overhaul of India’s security and intelligence apparatus.

Key recommendations included: –

The establishment of a National Defence University is pending.

Creating a Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) position will improve coordination among the three-armed services.

The strengthening of technical intelligence capabilities.

One critical outcome of the report was the establishment of the Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA) in 2002, which aimed to improve the integration and efficiency of military intelligence.

The implementation of these recommendations aimed to enhance India’s strategic preparedness and inter-agency coordination. However, the effectiveness of these reforms has been a subject of debate, as subsequent events have shown persistent gaps in intelligence and strategic planning.

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Strategic Intelligence – Repeated Failure

Despite the reforms post-Kargil, strategic intelligence failures have persisted, as evidenced by the PLA’s (People’s Liberation Army) incursions in eastern Ladakh in 2020. These intrusions highlighted gaps in surveillance and intelligence gathering, raising concerns about India’s ability to foresee and counter such threats. The Chinese forces managed to establish forward positions in the Galwan Valley, Pangong Tso, Daulat Begi Oldi (DBO) and other areas, leading to a prolonged standoff and violent clashes.

The repeated failure in strategic intelligence points to systemic issues that need continuous addressing to safeguard national security. It’s crucial to understand that these failures, including bureaucratic inertia, inter-agency rivalry, and inadequate technological advancements, highlight the urgent need to enhance human intelligence (HUMINT), leverage advanced satellite imagery, and foster better coordination among various intelligence agencies. These are critical steps to mitigate these risks and ensure the safety of our nation.

Intelligence Agencies and Operational Silos

India’s intelligence framework comprises multiple agencies, each mandated under different heads, including the Intelligence Bureau (IB), Research and Analysis Wing (RAW), Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA), and various technical intelligence units such as the National Technical Research Organisation (NTRO). Despite the presence of these specialised bodies, their operations often occur in silos, limiting the flow of comprehensive intelligence to political and military leadership. This fragmentation hinders a holistic understanding of threats and impedes timely decision-making.

The lack of integrated operations among these agencies has led to instances where critical intelligence has either been delayed or overlooked. The Kargil conflict itself was partly attributed to the failure of inter-agency communication. The need for a centralised body that can assimilate inputs from all intelligence agencies and present a unified assessment to the leadership is paramount.

Establishing a Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) and the National Intelligence Grid (NATGRID) are steps in this direction, but their full potential is yet to be realised.

Steps for Improvement

Establish a Unified Intelligence Framework. Create an overarching body responsible for integrating intelligence inputs from various agencies and providing a consolidated report to the political and military leadership.

Promote Inter-Agency Collaboration. Fostering a culture of collaboration through joint training programs, shared databases, and regular inter-agency meetings is essential. This will ensure seamless information exchange and shared responsibility, which is crucial for effective intelligence operations and national security.

Leverage Technology for Integration. Utilise advanced data analytics, artificial intelligence, and secure communication channels to enhance real-time sharing and analysis of intelligence inputs across agencies.

Lack of Accountability for Those with the Mandate

Since India’s independence, a recurring issue has been the lack of accountability for those tasked with national security. The failure to hold individuals and agencies accountable for lapses, such as intelligence failures or security breaches, has often led to repeated mistakes. This lack of accountability can erode public trust and confidence in the security and intelligence establishments. Effective oversight mechanisms and stringent accountability frameworks are essential to ensure those responsible for safeguarding the nation are answerable for their actions or inactions.

In the wake of the Kargil conflict, the KRC highlighted the need for accountability and transparency within the security and intelligence establishments. However, the implementation of these recommendations needs to be more consistent. Instances such as the Pathankot airbase attack in 2016 and the Pulwama attack in 2019 further underscore the need for robust accountability measures. Establishing clear lines of responsibility, conducting regular audits of intelligence operations, and fostering a culture of accountability within the defence and intelligence community are crucial for enhancing national security.

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Increasing Border Tourism and Troops’ Involvement in Rescue Operations

The increasing trend of border tourism, which refers to the growing number of tourists visiting sensitive border areas, has brought opportunities and challenges. While it promotes national integration and boosts local economies, it also puts additional pressure on the military to maintain security and conduct rescue operations during natural calamities. The popularity of destinations like Ladakh, Sikkim, and Arunachal Pradesh has surged, attracting tourists to the picturesque but sensitive border areas. This influx of tourists increases the risk of security breaches and requires the military to be prepared for emergency rescue operations in remote and challenging terrains.

The military’s involvement in rescue operations during natural calamities, such as floods, landslides, and avalanches, has become more frequent. While the military’s swift response in such situations is commendable, it diverts their focus from primary defence duties and strains resources. Balancing the promotion of border tourism with the security concerns and operational readiness of the troops is a delicate task that requires careful planning and resource allocation.

Considerations for Troops along the Line of Actual Control

The additional deployment of troops along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China necessitates a focus on the well-being of soldiers. Rotational deployment, adequate rest and recreation, and proper habitat are crucial for maintaining the morale and effectiveness of troops stationed in some of the most inhospitable terrains. The harsh climatic conditions, ranging from extreme cold in winters to harsh sun in summers, pose significant challenges to the physical and mental health of the soldiers.

Ensuring the availability of modern amenities, comfortable living quarters, and recreational facilities is essential for the troops’ well-being. Access to timely medical care, psychological support, and leave and family interaction opportunities can significantly enhance the soldiers’ morale and operational readiness. The recent infrastructural developments, such as the construction of all-weather roads, advanced medical facilities, and secure communication networks, are steps in the right direction but require continuous enhancement and maintenance.

Essentials of In-location Services

Providing in-location repair and maintenance services, along with fully equipped hospitals with all specialists, is vital for ensuring that troops can receive immediate and comprehensive care without requiring lengthy relocations. This approach eliminates the need for troops undergoing medical treatment to undergo the acclimatisation process again, which can take two to three weeks, depending on the deployment altitude. Such services ensure that soldiers quickly return to duty in peak condition, thus maintaining operational readiness. A fully functional medical facility with specialists in high-altitude medicine, orthopaedics, and emergency care can significantly reduce downtime and improve the overall health and efficiency of the deployed forces.

Recommendations

Enhance Intelligence Capabilities. Invest in advanced surveillance technologies like drones and satellite imagery to improve real-time intelligence gathering. Strengthen human intelligence (HUMINT) networks in sensitive areas to gather actionable information on potential threats.

Strengthen Accountability. Implement robust mechanisms to hold individuals and agencies accountable for security lapses. Regular audits, transparent investigations, and swift disciplinary actions are essential to foster a culture of accountability within the defence and intelligence community.

Improve Logistics and Infrastructure. Develop and maintain robust infrastructure in border areas to support troop deployment and ensure a timely supply of essentials. The construction of all-weather roads, modern communication networks, and advanced medical facilities are critical for operational efficiency.

Focus on Troop Welfare.  Provide adequate rest, recreation, and medical facilities for troops deployed in high-altitude areas. Ensuring access to psychological support, opportunities for leave, and family interaction can significantly enhance the soldiers’ morale and effectiveness.

Promote Civil-Military Cooperation. Foster collaboration between civilian authorities and the military to handle natural disasters efficiently and manage border tourism. Joint training programs, shared resources, and coordinated response mechanisms can enhance rescue operations’ preparedness and effectiveness. This is work in progress under the aegis of NDMA.

Conclusion

We must learn from the past and continually improve our defence mechanisms as we mark twenty-five years of Operation Vijay. The lessons from Kargil and recent challenges underscore the need for a robust and accountable defence framework. By addressing the identified gaps and implementing strategic recommendations, India can enhance its national security and honour the sacrifices of its brave soldiers who continue to guard the nation with unwavering dedication.

Reflecting on the courage displayed during Operation Vijay, it is crucial to acknowledge the evolving security dynamics and the need for continuous adaptation and improvement. As we commemorate this significant milestone, let us pledge to support and strengthen our armed forces, ensuring they are equipped and prepared to face future challenges.

The legacy of Operation Vijay serves as a reminder of the resilience and indomitable spirit of the Indian Armed Forces, inspiring future generations to uphold the sovereignty and integrity of our nation.

Author is an Indian Army Veteran