LONGEWALA WAR MEMORIAL, JAISALMER

 The Longewala War Memorial is a significant historical site located in Rajasthan, India, commemorating one of the most heroic battles fought during the Indo-Pakistani War of 1971. Situated in the western part of Rajasthan, near the Longewala village in the Jaisalmer district, the memorial is a tribute to the bravery of the Indian soldiers who fought and triumphed in this critical battle.

Historical Background of the Longewala Battle:

• Battle of Longewala: The Battle of Longewala was fought between the Indian Army and the Pakistan Army on December 4-5, 1971, as part of the Indo-Pakistani War of 1971, which ultimately led to the creation of Bangladesh.

• Location: The battle took place in the Longewala area, located close to the international border between India and Pakistan, in the Thar Desert. The area is sparsely populated, with harsh desert terrain that posed challenges for both armies.

• Indian Defense: The Indian Army, primarily consisting of a small contingent of soldiers from the Border Security Force (BSF) and some Army personnel, was stationed at the Longewala post. Despite being heavily outnumbered by Pakistani forces, the Indian troops, under the leadership of Major Kuldip Singh Chandpuri, held their ground and successfully defended the post.

• Pakistani Attack: The Pakistan Army launched a major offensive with around 2,000 soldiers and 45 tanks to capture the Longewala post. However, Indian forces, despite being vastly outnumbered, mounted a fierce defense. Indian forces relied on artillery and air support to repel the attack.

• Air Support and Victory: The turning point in the battle came when the Indian Air Force, led by Squadron Leader Fateh Singh, provided crucial air support, striking the advancing Pakistani tanks and infantry. The Indian Army managed to destroy several tanks and inflicted heavy casualties on the Pakistani forces, forcing them to retreat.

Longewala War Memorial:

• Location: The Longewala War Memorial is located near Longewala village in Jaisalmer district, Rajasthan. It is situated around 120 kilometers from Jaisalmer, in the Thar Desert region.

• Purpose: The memorial was built to honor the brave soldiers who fought in the battle and to preserve the history of the 1971 India-Pakistan war. It is a symbol of the courage and resilience of the Indian forces and a reminder of their heroic efforts in the face of overwhelming odds.

• Features:

  • The memorial itself consists of a stone monument, commemorative plaques, and a model of the T-55 tank used by the Pakistani forces during the battle.
  • A plaque at the memorial details the events of the battle and the bravery displayed by the soldiers, particularly Major Kuldip Singh Chandpuri, who was awarded the Maha Vir Chakra, India's second-highest gallantry award, for his leadership during the battle.
  • The memorial is surrounded by the desert landscape, providing a poignant backdrop to the sacrifices made by the soldiers.

• Visitors: The Longewala War Memorial serves as both a historical site and a tribute to the soldiers. It is visited by war veterans, tourists, and military enthusiasts. The site is also a popular destination for school groups and history buffs interested in India's military history.

Best Time to Visit:

• The best time to visit the Longewala War Memorial is during the winter months (October to March), when the weather in the Thar Desert is cooler and more pleasant for sightseeing.

How to Reach:

• By Road: The memorial is well-connected by road from Jaisalmer, which is around 120 kilometers away. Visitors can travel by taxi or car to reach the memorial.
• By train: The nearest railway station is Jaisalmer, which is well connected to other parts of Rajasthan and India. From the station, one can take a taxi or other transport to the memorial.
• By Air: The nearest airport is Jaisalmer Airport, which has limited domestic flights. Alternatively, the Jaipur International Airport (around 550 kilometers away) is another option.

Nearby Attractions:

• Jaisalmer Fort: A UNESCO World Heritage site, Jaisalmer Fort is a historic fort known for its stunning architecture and is one of the largest living forts in the world.
• Sam Sand Dunes: Located on the outskirts of Jaisalmer, the Sam Sand Dunes are famous for camel rides and desert safaris.
• Bada Bagh: A historical garden complex with royal cenotaphs, Bada Bagh is located a short distance from Jaisalmer and is an important tourist spot.