Tithwal 1948: Infantry Leaders' Ridge Fight Shaped North Kashmir

• The 1948 Tithwal battle on the Kishanganga front was a crucial ridge-by-ridge fight that shaped north Kashmir's strategic map.
• The Indian Army's objective was to seize and hold Tithwal, a key corridor, against fierce counter-attacks, involving difficult high-country movement and logistics.
• Brigadier Harbaksh Singh led the 163 Infantry Brigade in capturing Tithwal on May 23, 1948, establishing a foothold in the contested river sector.
• The sector saw heroic actions, including Lance Naik Karam Singh and Havildar Piru Singh earning Param Vir Chakras for their leadership and bravery.
• The Tithwal front highlighted the practical, often anonymous, leadership at all levels, from brigade to section, crucial for holding the riverline.

Why It Matters: Tithwal's 1948 battles forged India's army and shaped Kashmir's lasting borders.