Infiltration into Indian territory by Pakistani soldiers in Kargil commenced in early May 1999, when forces reportedly crossed the Line of Control (LoC) during the transition between harsh winters and the spring thaw. Indian intelligence had initially failed to detect the incursion due to the rugged terrain and challenging weather conditions. Various high-altitude posts in the Kargil area were occupied by what Pakistan claimed were 'Kashmiri militants,' but evidence later confirmed they were regular army soldiers. The infiltrators took strategic positions that overlooked National Highway 1A, which is vital for connecting the two regions of Jammu and Kashmir, intensifying the urgency for Indian forces to act.As the situation worsened, the Indian military undertook an operation named 'Operation Vijay' that involved air strikes and ground assaults to reclaim the territory. The conflict saw intense fighting in the harsh mountainous environment, with significant casualties on both sides. The international community was quick to take notice, leading to diplomatic efforts to de-escalate the situation. The Indian government, under Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, focused on regaining the territorial integrity amidst rising criticism about the intelligence failure. By July 1999, Indian forces successfully recaptured most of the territory, marking an end to the Kargil conflict.