Rifleman Amit Negi

During the Kargil War of 1999, Rifleman Amit Negi served with the 17 Garhwal Rifles, which was deployed in the Batalik-Yaldor sector of Jammu & Kashmir as part of Operation Vijay. The battalion operated under the 70 Infantry Brigade, which fell under the command of the 3 Infantry Division. By early May 1999, Pakistani forces had infiltrated across the Line of Control (LoC) in the Mushkoh, Dras, Kaksar, and Batalik sectors—penetrating 4 to 8 kilometers into Indian territory. The intrusions in the Batalik-Yaldor area were detected in the first week of May. Many of the enemy's positions were fortified in rugged, high-altitude terrain and were out of visible range, rendering Indian artillery and air power largely ineffective in dislodging them. After a careful assessment of the terrain and enemy disposition, Indian Army strategists decided to carve out a corridor to the LoC through Junk Lungpa, effectively aiming to divide the enemy's intrusion zone. This complex operation was assigned to 12 JAK LI, 10 Para (Special Forces), and a company of Ladakh Scouts. The mission was completed successfully by 3 June 1999, establishing a critical corridor. However, enemy forces continued to dominate the surrounding ridgelines to the west, east, and north, maintaining a significant tactical advantage.

Following the successful capture of Point 5203 on 8 June 1999, the focus shifted to the Jubar Ridge, particularly the enemy-held positions at Bump II, Bump III, Kala Pathar, and Mound on its western flank. The task of securing these key features was assigned to the 17 Garhwal Rifles, under the leadership of Captain Jintu Gogoi. The assault plan involved assigning each position to a separate company for a coordinated attack. Reconnaissance missions had confirmed enemy activity between Bump II and Bump III—areas where Para SF had previously conducted operations. To prepare for the assault, the battalion established a forward base about 4–5 km away at a location known as Flat Area in China Nala. From here, final planning and logistical arrangements were made. On the evening of 29 June 1999, as daylight began to fade, the assault columns led by Captain Jintu Gogoi commenced their uphill advance. The approach involved a grueling 1-kilometer climb over treacherous terrain. Rifleman Amit Negi was part of this courageous assault team.

As the soldiers reached the ridge top, they were detected and quickly surrounded by well-entrenched enemy forces. In the intense firefight that followed, Rifleman Amit Negi displayed exceptional courage and steadfastness. Fighting against overwhelming odds, he made the supreme sacrifice, laying down his life in the line of duty. The battle was fiercely contested, and twelve brave soldiers of the 17 Garhwal Rifles laid down their lives during the operation. Alongside Rifleman Amit Negi and Captain Jintu Gogoi, the fallen heroes included Naik Shiv Singh, Lance Naik Madan Singh, Lance Naik Devendra Prasad, Lance Naik Dinesh Datt, Rifleman Birendra Lal, Rifleman SC Sati, Rifleman Vijay Singh, Rifleman JS Bhandari, Rifleman Ranjeet Singh, and Rifleman Bhagwan Singh. Despite the heavy casualties, the battalion regrouped and launched renewed attacks over the following days. Their unwavering determination led to the successful capture of the assigned objectives, including further advances toward the Muntho Dhalo complex. Ultimately, the battalion seized Point 5285, braving extreme weather and relentless enemy fire. For its gallantry and exceptional performance during Operation Vijay, the 17 Garhwal Rifles was awarded the prestigious Battle Honour ‘Batalik’. Rifleman Amit Negi’s sacrifice remains a testament to his courage, dedication, and unwavering commitment to the nation.