The Bravery of Captain Vikram Batra, PVC

Captain Vikram Batra, an officer of the Indian Army, etched his name in history with his unparalleled courage and sacrifice during the Kargil War of 1999. His fearless spirit, unwavering determination, and selfless devotion to the nation made him a true hero. Awarded the Param Vir Chakra posthumously, he remains an inspiration for generations of Indians.

Born on September 9, 1974, in Palampur, Himachal Pradesh, Vikram Batra was a bright student and an exceptional sportsman. He pursued his education at DAV College, Chandigarh, where he was a cadet in the National Cadet Corps (NCC). His deep-rooted patriotism led him to join the Indian Military Academy (IMA), and he was commissioned into the Indian Army in December 1997 as a lieutenant in the 13th Battalion, Jammu and Kashmir Rifles.

In 1999, India faced one of its most challenging military conflicts when Pakistani intruders occupied strategic positions in the Kargil sector of Jammu and Kashmir. Captain Vikram Batra and his unit were deployed in the war zone as part of Operation Vijay, tasked with reclaiming crucial peaks.

One of his most daring missions was the capture of Point 5140, a strategically important peak. Displaying exemplary leadership, Captain Batra led his men in an uphill assault under heavy enemy fire. Despite the treacherous terrain and continuous bombardment, he motivated his troops with his famous war cry, “Yeh dil maange more!” (This heart desires more!). His sheer bravery led to the successful capture of the peak, inflicting heavy losses on the enemy.

After the victory at Point 5140, Captain Batra’s next assignment was to recapture Point 4875, another high-altitude position held by Pakistani forces. On July 7, 1999, amidst relentless enemy fire, he charged forward, eliminating enemy bunkers and leading his men courageously. During the operation, he noticed a fellow officer injured and under enemy attack. Without hesitation, Captain Batra rushed to rescue him. In the process, he was hit by enemy bullets but continued fighting till his last breath. His ultimate sacrifice ensured the victory of his battalion and reinforced the Indian Army’s stronghold in Kargil.

Captain Vikram Batra’s supreme sacrifice earned him the highest wartime gallantry award, the Param Vir Chakra. His story continues to inspire millions across the country. His legacy lives on in the Indian Army, in schools, roads, and institutions named in his honor, and in the hearts of those who revere his heroism.

His life exemplifies the values of bravery, patriotism, and selflessness. His immortal words, “Either I will hoist the tricolor, or I will return wrapped in it,” reflect his unwavering commitment to his motherland. Captain Vikram Batra remains a beacon of courage and an everlasting symbol of India’s indomitable spirit.