The medal was instituted by the President of India on 20 August 2001 to be awarded to those involved in Operation Vijay between 1 May 1999 and 31 January 2000. Operation Vijay was launched by India following the covert occupation by Pakistan of vacant Indian posts high in the Kargil district of the Himalayas. India reoccupied the area, driving back Pakistani forces and inflicting a notable defeat. ‘Vijay’ is Hindi for ‘Victory’. The Vijay Stambh (Victory Tower) shown on the reverse is at Chittaurgarh Fort in Rajasthan. This exceptional monument was built by Rana Kumbha between 1442 and 1449 to commemorate his victory over the combined armies of Malwa and Gujarat led by Mahmud Khilji and is decorated with Hindu deities. The medal is quite rare. An original full size award in cupro nickel measuring 1.3/8th inches in diameter 36mm) and in very fine condition. It is complete with original correct ribbon. Obverse - The face with the Ashokan Lions above the Indian National motto ‘सत्यमेव जयते’ (Satyameva Jayate = Truth Alone Prevails) in Hindi characters, inscribed above ‘Operation Vijay’ in Hindi characters and ‘OPERATION VIJAY’ below within an ornate border. Reverse - A view of the Vijay Stambh inscribed ‘Jai Stambh’ in Hindi letters above and ‘JAI STAMBH’ below within an ornate border;