1.6 Tiger Hills by General Ved Prakash Malik

Difficult words from the lesson "Tiger Hills" by General Ved Prakash Malik, along with their meanings:

 1. Protrusion - a thing that extends from a place or from the surface; something that sticks out.

2. Spur - an area of high ground extending from a mountain or hill; a long, steep slope at the edge of a plateau.

3. Escarpment - a long, steep slope, especially at the edge of a plateau or separating areas of land at different heights.

4. Adhoc - (adv) when necessary or needed; (adj) created or done for a particular purpose.

5. Gallantly - in a brave, heroic, or courageous manner.

6. Humanitarian - characterized by concern for the welfare of others, especially in providing aid or relief to those in need.

7. Notch up - to achieve or score something noteworthy.

8. Acquitted - to conduct oneself or perform in a specified way; to be acquitted means to be cleared of a criminal charge or accusation.

9. Multidirectional - involving or moving in multiple directions.

10. Fortified - strengthened or protected with defensive structures or measures.

11. Artillery - large-caliber weapons used in warfare, such as cannons or rocket launchers.

12. Inclement - referring to harsh or severe weather conditions.

13. Precarious - dangerously unstable or insecure.

14. Reinforcements - additional troops or resources sent to support and strengthen a military unit.

15. Orchestrate - to carefully plan or arrange (especially in regards to a military operation).

16. Perch - a high or elevated position, often used in the context of military positions on difficult terrain.

17. Grit - courage, determination, and resilience in the face of adversity.

18. Counterattack - a military offensive launched in response to an enemy's attack.

19. Acquit - to free from a criminal charge or accusation; to declare not guilty.

20. Figment - something that is invented or imagined, especially as a fabrication of the mind.

21. Precursor - something that comes before and indicates the approach of something or someone else; a sign or warning of something to come.

22. Recapture - to regain or retake possession or control of something, especially a place or territory previously lost.

23. Depict - to represent or show in the form of a picture; to describe or portray in words.

24. Toehold - a small foothold or initial advantage that can be used as a base for further progress.

25. Recouped - to recover or regain something lost or expended; to make up for losses.

26. Crack team - a highly skilled and efficient group of individuals with specialized expertise.

27. Bofors guns - a type of artillery gun known for its accuracy and effectiveness, named after the Swedish company that manufactured it.

28. Mortars - a type of portable, indirect-firing weapon used in military operations to launch explosive projectiles.

29. Multibarrelled - having multiple barrels, often referring to weapons with several firing tubes.

30. On-screen - appearing or displayed on a screen, usually referring to television or computer screens.

31. Stalled - to come to a stop; to be delayed or obstructed in progress.

32. Inclement - referring to severe or harsh weather conditions, especially unpleasantly cold or wet weather.

33. Acquitted - to be found not guilty of a crime or wrongdoing; to clear of charges.

34. Stabilized - to make stable, steady, or balanced; to bring under control or maintain a consistent state.

35. Professionalism - the skill, competence, and conduct expected from a person in a particular profession or field of work.

 

Places from the lesson - Tiger Hills by General Ved Prakash Malik

1. Tiger Hill: Tiger Hill is a strategically significant mountaintop located almost 10 kilometers north of the Srinagar-Kargil-Leh highway. It dominated parts of the highway, making it a priority target during the Kargil War. The Indian Army undertook a challenging mission to recapture this well-fortified enemy position.

 2. Tololing: Tololing is a location adjacent to Tiger Hill and was recaptured by the Indian Army before the assault on Tiger Hill. Its recapture was an important step in the overall mission to secure the region.

 3. India Gate: India Gate was a prominent protrusion on the western spur of Tiger Hill, located approximately 500 meters west of the main feature. It was one of the enemy positions that needed to be captured to secure Tiger Hill Top.

 4. Helmet: Helmet was another significant protrusion on the western spur of Tiger Hill, located about 300 meters away from India Gate. Capturing Helmet was crucial to prevent enemy reinforcements from reaching Tiger Hill Top.

 5. Area Collar: Area Collar was an intermediate position on the southeastern spur leading to Tiger Hill Top. 'D' Company, led by Captain Sachin Nimbalkar, successfully captured the eastern portion of Area Collar during the assault.

 6. Tongue: Tongue was an intermediate position located on the approach to Tiger Hill Top. 'A' Company captured Tongue during the assault on July 4, 1999.

 7. Ghatak (Commando) Platoon: The Ghatak Platoon is a specialized unit within the Indian Army that is trained for special operations and high-risk missions. During the assault on Tiger Hill, the Ghatak Platoon surprised the enemy along the northeastern spur and obtained a toehold close to Tiger Hill Top.

 8. High Altitude Warfare School: The High Altitude Warfare School is a training institute of the Indian Army that specializes in mountain warfare and provides specialized training to soldiers for high-altitude operations.

 9. Sierra Leone: Sierra Leone is a country in West Africa where 18 Grenadiers, after their achievements in the Kargil War, successfully carried out a major rescue operation (Operation Khukri) as part of a UN mission.

 10. Operation Khukri: Operation Khukri was a UN peacekeeping mission undertaken by 18 Grenadiers in Sierra Leone. The battalion carried out a successful rescue operation during this mission, showcasing their professionalism and valor.

 11. 41 Field Regiment: 41 Field Regiment was a crucial artillery unit that played a significant role in providing support during the assault on Tiger Hill. They formulated an elaborate artillery fire plan, using various guns to cover each objective and deliver precise and devastating firepower on the enemy positions.

 12. 8 Mount Division: The 8 Mountain Division was responsible for overseeing the operations in the Kargil sector during the war. They strategized and issued orders to units like 8 Sikh to attack and capture key positions like Helmet and India Gate, which were crucial for disrupting the enemy's supply lines to Tiger Hill Top.

 13. Kargil: Kargil is a town in the Ladakh region of Jammu and Kashmir, and it became the focal point of the Kargil War in 1999. The Indian Army engaged in intense combat to regain control of the Kargil sector and drive out the infiltrating Pakistani forces.

 

14. Northern Light Infantry (Pakistan): The Northern Light Infantry is a regiment of the Pakistan Army, and during the Kargil War, approximately one company (approximately 100 soldiers) of the Northern Light Infantry held the entire Tiger Hill feature.

 15. Bofors Guns: Bofors guns are a type of field artillery, and they played a critical role in providing direct firing support during the assault on Tiger Hill. These guns were known for their precision and accuracy, effectively targeting enemy positions with devastating firepower.

 16. Multibarrelled Grad Rocket Launchers: Multibarrelled Grad rocket launchers are a type of artillery system that fires multiple rockets simultaneously. They were used during the assault on Tiger Hill, adding to the intensity of the artillery barrage on the enemy positions.

 17. Indian Tricolour: The Indian Tricolour refers to the national flag of India, consisting of three horizontal stripes of saffron, white, and green, with the Ashoka Chakra (a navy-blue wheel) in the center. After the successful capture of Tiger Hill, the soldiers of 18 Grenadiers hoisted the Indian Tricolour on the mountaintop, signifying their victory.

 18. New Delhi: New Delhi is the capital city of India and the seat of the Indian government. During the Kargil War, the nation's leaders and military officials closely monitored the progress of the operation, and important decisions were made in New Delhi.

 19. Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee: Atal Bihari Vajpayee was the Prime Minister of India during the Kargil War. He provided leadership and support to the Indian Armed Forces during the conflict.

 20. GOC 15 Corps: The GOC (General Officer Commanding) of 15 Corps was responsible for overseeing the military operations in the region during the Kargil War. They were in direct communication with the higher authorities and played a crucial role in coordinating the progress of the operation.

 21. Peace Talks: Peace talks between India and Pakistan took place after the Kargil War to resolve the conflict and establish a ceasefire. The successful capture of Tiger Hill by the Indian Army had an impact on the diplomatic negotiations during these talks.

 22. Geopolitical Impact: The successful recapture of Tiger Hill and other strategic locations during the Kargil War had significant geopolitical implications. It showcased India's military prowess and its determination to defend its territory, enhancing India's standing on the world stage.

 23. Geographical Challenges: The Kargil region is known for its challenging terrain and harsh weather conditions, which added to the complexity of the military operations during the Kargil War. The soldiers faced the difficulties of fighting in high altitudes and extreme weather.

 24. Ceasefire: The Kargil War concluded with a ceasefire agreement between India and Pakistan. The successful operations, including the capture of Tiger Hill, played a role in the eventual establishment of the ceasefire.

 25. Sacrifice and Bravery: The lesson highlights the exceptional courage, determination, and sacrifice of the soldiers of 18 Grenadiers and 8 Sikh during the mission to capture Tiger Hill. Their bravery and commitment to the nation are a testament to the spirit of the Indian Army.

 

Indian Army relayed words and meanings:  Tiger Hills by General Ved Prakash Malik:

 1. Brigade - a military unit comprising several regiments, battalions, or other sub-units, and often forming part of a division.

2. Commander - the officer in charge of a military unit or operation.

3. Artillery - large-caliber weapons used in warfare, such as cannons or rocket launchers, used to support ground troops with firepower.

4. Multidirectional assault - an attack launched from multiple directions or angles to overwhelm the enemy's defenses.

5. Troops - soldiers or armed forces that form a unit or a body.

6. Mountain Brigade - a brigade that specializes in mountain warfare and operates in difficult, mountainous terrains.

7. Grenadiers - soldiers belonging to a specialized infantry unit, historically known for their ability to throw grenades.

8. High Altitude Warfare School - a specialized training institution for mountain warfare and operations in high-altitude regions.

9. Engineering support - support provided by engineering units to facilitate military operations, such as constructing defenses, bridges, and obstacles.

10. Combat support - support provided to combat units, including artillery, engineering, logistics, and medical services.

11. Air Force - the aerial warfare branch of the armed forces responsible for conducting military operations in the air.

12. Assault - a concerted effort to forcefully capture or attack an enemy position.

13. Firepower - the capacity of a military unit to deliver fire in terms of guns, artillery, or other weapons.

14. Counterattacks - military offensives launched in response to an enemy's attack.

15. Supply lines - the routes and means by which military units receive essential equipment, food, and ammunition.

16. UN mission - a military or peacekeeping operation conducted under the auspices of the United Nations.

17. Battalion - a large organized military unit, typically consisting of several companies.

18. Hold - to maintain possession or control of a captured territory or position.

19. Perimeter - the outer boundary or defensive line surrounding a military position.

20. Deployment - the strategic positioning and arrangement of military forces for operations.

Main points from the lesson Tiger Hills by General Ved Prakash Malik:

1. Tiger Hill, a well-fortified enemy position, dominated parts of the Srinagar-Kargil-Leh highway.

2. The capture of Tiger Hill became a national challenge and a priority for the Indian Army.

3. The mission to capture Tiger Hill was assigned to 18 Grenadiers and 8 Sikh, with assistance from the High Altitude Warfare School and combat support.

4. A multidirectional assault strategy was adopted, with artillery support, to attack Tiger Hill from different angles.

5. Captain Sachin Nimbalkar led the assault from the east, capturing the eastern portion of Area Collar close to Tiger Hill Top.

6. 'C' Company and the Ghatak (Commando) platoon under Lieutenant Balwan Singh also attacked from another front and obtained a toehold close to the top.

7. On July 4, 1999, Captain Nimbalkar and Lieutenant Balwan Singh, along with their men, climbed a sheer cliff to capture Tiger Hill Top and succeeded.

8. Holding the captured ground became challenging as the enemy launched counterattacks.

9. The 8 Sikh unit was tasked with capturing Helmet and India Gate to prevent enemy reinforcements to Tiger Hill Top.

10. 8 Sikh successfully captured Helmet and India Gate after facing tough fights.

11. After several artillery duels and intense fighting, 18 Grenadiers held Tiger Hill Top.

12. The Indian Army's capture of Tiger Hill was a significant achievement, broadcast live on TV, and contributed to the likely outcome of the war.

13. The Indian Army showcased exceptional courage, professionalism, and determination during the entire operation.

14. The successful capture of Tiger Hill lifted the nation's spirits and replaced gloom with jubilation and relief.

15. The soldiers of 18 Grenadiers demonstrated unshakeable determination and collective valor during the operation.

16. The Indian Army exhibited humane gestures, burying the bodies of Pakistani soldiers found on the battlefield.

17. The successful recapture of Tiger Hill was conveyed to the Indian government and shared globally before a key meeting between Nawaz Sharif and US President Bill Clinton.

18. The victory at Tiger Hill dealt a hard physical and psychological blow to Pakistan, leading to a wave of jubilation in India.

19. 18 Grenadiers, after the war, undertook a UN mission in Sierra Leone (Operation Khukri) and successfully carried out a major rescue operation.

20. The battalion displayed high professionalism and honor throughout its tenure in the war, achieving two of the finest victories for the Indian Army.

Summary of the Lesson Tiger Hills by General Ved Prakash Malik:

"Tiger Hills" narrates the gripping account of the Indian Army's mission to capture Tiger Hill during the Kargil War in 1999. Tiger Hill was a well-fortified enemy position that dominated parts of the Srinagar-Kargil-Leh highway and became a national challenge for India.

The mission to capture Tiger Hill was assigned to 18 Grenadiers and 8 Sikh, supported by a crack team from the High Altitude Warfare School and various combat support units. The soldiers faced an imposing triangular mountaintop visible from the highway, making the task seemingly impossible. The media projected the operation as a national challenge, adding further pressure on the troops.

The Indian Army devised a multidirectional assault strategy to attack Tiger Hill from different angles. Artillery units, including Bofors guns, were ranged to provide accurate and devastating firepower support. The Air Force also targeted Tiger Hill during its missions.

In the last week of June 1999, 18 Grenadiers probed the enemy's defenses to scout for suitable assault routes. The main assault began on July 3, 1999, under the cover of bad weather and darkness. 'A' Company captured an intermediate position called Tongue while 'D' Company led by Captain Sachin Nimbalkar attacked from the east and occupied the eastern portion of Area Collar. 'C' Company and the Ghatak platoon under Lieutenant Balwan Singh launched a surprise attack from the northeastern spur and obtained a toehold just 30 meters from the top.

On July 4, 1999, Captain Nimbalkar and Lieutenant Balwan Singh, along with their men, climbed a sheer cliff and captured Tiger Hill Top, taking the enemy by surprise. The Indian troops faced fierce hand-to-hand combat but eventually secured the objective. However, holding the captured ground became a daunting task as the enemy launched counterattacks.

Realizing that Tiger Hill could not be held securely as long as the enemy's supply lines along the western spur remained intact, 8 Sikh was tasked with capturing Helmet and India Gate. The western spur of Tiger Hill extended up to 1.5 kilometers, and the approach to the spur was along a steep rock face. An adhoc column of 8 Sikh, led by Major Ravindra Singh and Lieutenant R. K. Sehrawat, successfully captured India Gate after a tough fight. Later, they also captured Helmet on July 5, 1999.

Throughout the mission, the soldiers of 18 Grenadiers exhibited exceptional courage, professionalism, and determination, and they successfully held Tiger Hill Top. The victory was conveyed to the Indian government and shared globally before a key meeting between Pakistan's Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif and US President Bill Clinton.

The capture of Tiger Hill was a significant achievement for India, delivering a hard physical and psychological blow to Pakistan. The news of the victory replaced gloom with jubilation and relief among the people of India.

After the Kargil War, 18 Grenadiers undertook a UN mission in Sierra Leone (Operation Khukri), where they successfully carried out a major rescue operation, further showcasing their valor and commitment to duty.

In conclusion, "Tiger Hills" highlights the determination, bravery, and professionalism of the Indian Army during the Kargil War. The successful capture of Tiger Hill stands as a testament to the soldiers' unwavering spirit and the relentless pursuit of victory, bringing pride and honor to the nation.

 

Question and Answers on the Lesson Tiger Hills by General Ved Prakash Malik:

 Q1: What was the significance of Tiger Hill during the Kargil War?

A1: Tiger Hill was a strategically important enemy position that dominated parts of the Srinagar-Kargil-Leh highway. Its recapture became a national challenge as it posed a threat to the highway and the surrounding region.

Q2: Which units were assigned the mission to capture Tiger Hill, and what support did they receive?

A2: The mission to capture Tiger Hill was assigned to 18 Grenadiers and 8 Sikh. They received support from a crack team from the High Altitude Warfare School, as well as maximum possible artillery, engineering, and other combat support.

Q3: What strategy did the Indian Army adopt to capture Tiger Hill?

A3: The Indian Army adopted a multidirectional assault strategy. They launched simultaneous attacks from different directions to overwhelm the enemy's defenses and secure the mountaintop.

Q4: Describe the assault on Tiger Hill conducted by 'D' Company under Captain Sachin Nimbalkar.

A4: 'D' Company led by Captain Sachin Nimbalkar assaulted Tiger Hill from the east. They used mountaineering equipment to climb a steep escarpment in the dark and inclement weather. Their surprise attack enabled them to capture the eastern portion of Area Collar, bringing them within 100 meters of Tiger Hill Top.

Q5: How did 'C' Company and the Ghatak platoon contribute to the assault on Tiger Hill?

A5: 'C' Company and the Ghatak platoon under Lieutenant Balwan Singh launched a surprise attack from the northeastern spur. They obtained a toehold just 30 meters from the top, which significantly contributed to the success of the overall mission.

Q6: What challenges did the Indian Army face while holding the captured ground on Tiger Hill?

A6: The Indian Army faced counterattacks from the enemy after capturing Tiger Hill. Holding the ground became challenging as the enemy tried to regain control of the mountaintop.

Q7: How did 8 Sikh contribute to the overall mission to secure Tiger Hill?

A7: 8 Sikh was tasked with capturing Helmet and India Gate, located on the western spur of Tiger Hill. By capturing these positions, they prevented enemy reinforcements to Tiger Hill Top and disrupted the enemy's supply route.

Q8: What role did the media play during the mission to capture Tiger Hill?

A8: The media covered the battle live, making it the first time in India's military history. This brought transparency and progress to the operation, while also depicting the confidence of the Indian Army.

Q9: How did the victory at Tiger Hill impact both India and Pakistan?

A9: The successful recapture of Tiger Hill was a significant achievement for India, bringing jubilation and relief to the nation. For Pakistan, the loss of Tiger Hill was a hard physical and psychological blow.

Q10: What other notable missions did 18 Grenadiers undertake after the Kargil War?

A10: After the Kargil War, 18 Grenadiers undertook a UN mission in Sierra Leone (Operation Khukri). There, they carried out a major rescue operation, showcasing their bravery and professionalism once again.

Q11: How did the use of artillery support contribute to the success of the mission to capture Tiger Hill?

A11: The use of artillery support played a crucial role in the success of the mission. Artillery units, including Bofors guns and medium guns, were ranged to provide accurate and devastating firepower. They targeted the enemy positions on Tiger Hill, causing significant damage and weakening the enemy's defenses, which facilitated the ground assault by the infantry units.

Q12: What challenges did the soldiers face while climbing the steep terrain of Tiger Hill?

A12: Climbing the steep and challenging terrain of Tiger Hill presented numerous difficulties for the soldiers. They had to negotiate cliffs and rocky slopes using mountaineering equipment, all while facing inclement weather conditions. The steepness of the terrain and the darkness made the task physically demanding and risky.

 

Q13: How did the soldiers of 18 Grenadiers display exceptional courage during the assault on Tiger Hill?

A13: The soldiers of 18 Grenadiers displayed exceptional courage throughout the assault on Tiger Hill. They faced intense hand-to-hand combat, adverse weather, and difficult terrain while displaying unwavering determination to capture the objective. Many soldiers showed exemplary bravery, even in the face of heavy casualties, which ultimately contributed to the successful capture of Tiger Hill.

Q14: Apart from military tactics, what humanitarian gestures did the Indian Army exhibit during and after the battle?

A14: The Indian Army exhibited humanitarian gestures during and after the battle. When the bodies of Pakistani soldiers were found scattered on the battlefield, they were collected and buried appropriately. The Indian Army also handed over the body of Captain Karnal Sher Khan, a Pakistani soldier, to the Pakistani authorities, showing respect even to their fallen enemy.

Q15: How did the successful capture of Tiger Hill influence the geopolitical scenario during the Kargil War?

A15: The successful recapture of Tiger Hill boosted India's morale and showcased the Indian Army's capabilities. It signaled the determination of the Indian forces to defend their territory and contributed to the likely outcome of the war. The news of the victory was strategically shared with the world just before a key meeting between Pakistan's Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif and US President Bill Clinton, possibly influencing the diplomatic negotiations.

Q16: After the war, what mission did 18 Grenadiers undertake in Sierra Leone, and how did they excel in it?

A16: After the Kargil War, 18 Grenadiers undertook a UN mission in Sierra Leone (Operation Khukri). They carried out a major rescue operation, showcasing their professionalism and commitment to duty. The successful completion of the mission in Sierra Leone further reinforced the high regard and respect for the battalion's capabilities within the international community.

Q17: What impact did the victory at Tiger Hill have on the soldiers of 18 Grenadiers and their reputation within the Indian Army?

A17: The victory at Tiger Hill brought immense pride and honor to the soldiers of 18 Grenadiers. They became renowned for their bravery and professionalism within the Indian Army. The successful capture of Tiger Hill became a symbol of the Indian Army's determination and prowess in combat.

Q18: How did the live coverage of the battle on TV reflect progress and transparency in India's military operations?

A18: The live coverage of the battle on TV was a significant step towards progress and transparency in India's military operations. It allowed the nation to witness the courage and dedication of its soldiers in real-time. This openness helped build public trust and confidence in the Indian Army's capabilities and showcased the professionalism and commitment of its soldiers on the battlefield.

Q19: What lessons can be learned from the capture of Tiger Hill in terms of military strategy and operations?

A19: The capture of Tiger Hill offers valuable lessons in military strategy and operations. The importance of meticulous planning, coordination, and use of multidirectional assaults to overwhelm enemy defenses is evident. Additionally, the significance of artillery and combat support in providing accurate and effective firepower support cannot be understated. The soldiers' courage, determination, and professionalism in adverse conditions exemplify the qualities required for successful military operations.

Q20: In conclusion, how can the capture of Tiger Hill be seen as a testament to the Indian Army's commitment and sacrifice for the nation?

A20: The capture of Tiger Hill serves as a testament to the Indian Army's commitment and sacrifice for the nation. The soldiers of 18 Grenadiers and 8 Sikh displayed exceptional bravery and determination, willingly facing challenging terrain and relentless enemy counterattacks. Their victory brought pride and relief to the nation, and their actions demonstrated the unwavering dedication of the Indian Army in safeguarding the country's borders and territorial integrity.

 

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