Palampur remembers Kargil hero Capt Batra

The people of Palampur, the hometown of Kargil war hero Capt Vikram Batra, gathered in solemn remembrance last evening to pay tribute on his death anniversary, honouring his supreme sacrifice during the 1999 Kargil War.

At the heart of the tribute was a garlanding ceremony at Captain Batra’s statue near the PWD Rest House, led by Gopal Nag, Mayor of the Palampur Municipal Corporation. Citizens, students, ex-servicemen and local officials came together to express their deep respect and gratitude.

Commemorative events were held across the town, including at Capt Vikram Batra Degree College, the local Army cantonment and other locations, reflecting the enduring legacy of the brave soldier whose courage continues to inspire generations.

Capt Batra was posthumously awarded the Param Vir Chakra, India’s highest military honour, on January 26, 2000, for his unmatched bravery during the Kargil conflict. He remains the last soldier to have received this distinguished honour.

During the Kargil War, Capt Batra led his company in the successful capture of Point 5140, personally neutralising four enemy soldiers in a daring assault. In another fiercely contested operation at Point 4875, despite suffering grievous injuries, he pressed on the attack, eliminated five enemy soldiers at point-blank range and ultimately laid down his life for the nation. His actions in both missions displayed extraordinary courage, leadership and a deep sense of duty.

Today, Capt Batra’s name lives on not only in the hearts of Indians but also across military institutions. Several facilities are named in his honour: the ‘Vikram Batra Block’ at the Service Selection Centre in Allahabad, ‘Captain Vikram Batra Enclave’ in Jabalpur Cantonment and the ‘Vikram Batra Mess’ at the Indian Military Academy, among others.

As the sun set over Palampur, floral tributes and heartfelt words reaffirmed that Capt Vikram Batra’s story of heroism remains etched in the nation’s collective memory — a timeless symbol of selflessness, courage and patriotism.

Himachal Tribune