Kargil War: Ladakh shepherd Tashi Namgyal, who informed Indian soldiers about Pakistan’s infiltration in the Kargil sector in 1999, died at the age of 58. Namgyal had attended the 25th Kargil Vijay Diwas in Dras earlier this year with his daughter and teacher Shiring Dolkar.
Indian Army paid tribute
Leh-based Fire and Fury Corps wrote on Twitter, “Fire and Fury Corps pays tribute to Tashi Namgyal on his sudden demise.” The Army wrote, “A patriot has passed away. Brave of Ladakh – May your soul rest in peace.” The tribute message highlighted his invaluable contribution to the nation during Operation Vijay in 1999 and said it will remain engraved in golden letters. The army said, “Our thoughts are with the bereaved family in this hour of grief.”
Saw Pakistani soldiers digging bunkers
Namgyal died in Garkhon located in Aryan Valley of Ladakh. Namgyal came into limelight in 1999 after alerting the Indian Army about Pakistani infiltration. While searching for his missing yak in early May 1999, Namgyal saw Pakistani soldiers in Pathan attire digging bunkers atop the Batalik mountain range. Understanding the seriousness of the situation, he immediately informed the Indian Army, after which the army took action.
In the Kargil war that took place between May 3 and July 26, 1999, Indian troops rapidly mobilized and foiled Pakistan’s secret mission to capture the Srinagar-Leh highway. Namgyal’s alertness proved helpful in India’s victory and he was recognized as a brave shepherd.