Rajouri, Nov 03: The Indian Army on Sunday concluded the Diamond Jubilee celebrations of the historic Battle of OP Hill with a solemn wreath-laying ceremony and a series of cultural performances at Balnoi in Rajouri district, honouring the bravery of soldiers who recaptured the strategic position during the 1965 Indo-Pak War.
Lieutenant General P. K. Mishra, General Officer Commanding (GOC) White Knight Corps, and Major General Kaushik Mukherjee, GOC Ace of Spades Division, led the tributes alongside decorated war veterans Colonel Randhir Singh, SM (Retd), and Colonel Ravel Singh (Retd). A Guard of Honour was presented as wreaths were laid in memory of the martyrs whose valour turned the tide during the fierce engagement six decades ago.
The commemorations marked the culmination of a 15-day outreach campaign conducted across border regions including Poonch, Balnoi, Mankote, Khari Karmara, and Jhalas. The initiative featured motivational lectures in eight border schools, mobile planetarium shows, a T-10 cricket tournament, talent hunt events, and the distribution of sports equipment aimed at inspiring local youth and fostering stronger civil-military relations.
As the evening progressed, the venue came alive with traditional and martial art displays, including Gatka, Kalaripayattu, and Gojri folk performances, reflecting the cultural vibrancy of the region. A poignant sand-art tribute by artist Rahul Arya added emotional depth to the commemoration.
In a gesture of community outreach, the Army also distributed wheelchairs to differently-abled persons, reinforcing its enduring commitment to the welfare of border residents.
The Battle of OP Hill remains etched in military history for the extraordinary courage and determination displayed by Indian soldiers in reclaiming the heavily fortified position against daunting odds in 1965 — a legacy that continues to inspire generations.
