The unsung heroes of the Kargil War are no longer with us. In 1999, the shepherd Zananjay, who informed Indian soldiers about Pakistani infiltration into the Kargil region, died in the Aryan Valley. Earlier this year, 58-year-old Namgyal attended the 25th Kargil Vijay Diwas celebrations in Dras along with his daughter and teacher Shiring Dolkar.
The Leh-based Legion of Fire and Fury wrote on social media site ‘X’, “The Legion of Fire and Fury expresses condolences on the sudden passing of Shri Tashi Namgyal.” The army wrote: “A patriot has passed away, Brave man of Ladakh – may your soul rest in peace.” The tribute message highlighted his valuable contribution to the country during Operation Vijay in 1999 and said it would “continue to be engraved in golden letters”. .
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patriots pass
Brave Heart of Ladakh – Rest in Peace
The Legion of Fire and Fury expresses its condolences on the sudden passing of Mr. Tashi Nanjie. His valuable contribution to the country during Operation Vijay in 1999 will always be etched in gold. We express our deep condolences to the victims pic.twitter.com/jmtyHUHNfB
— @firefurycorps_IA (@firefurycorps) December 20, 2024
with military families
“Our thoughts are with his family at this sad time,” the Army said in a message. Namgyal died at Garkhon in the Aryan Valley of Ladakh. Nanjay came to attention in 1999 after he alerted the Indian Army about Pakistani infiltration. In early May 1999, while searching for a missing yak, Namgyal saw Pakistani soldiers in Pathan garb digging bunkers on top of the Batalik Mountains. After understanding the seriousness of the situation, he immediately informed the Indian army, which then took action.
Nanjie’s vigilance paid off
After Namjar briefed the situation, Indian troops mobilized quickly during the Kargil War from May 3 to July 26, 1999, defeating Pakistan’s secret mission to seize the Srinagar-Leh highway. Nanjay’s astuteness proved instrumental in India’s victory and he was regarded as a brave shepherd.
