1971, Indo-Pak war & birth of new nation: India, Bangladesh mark 53rd Vijay Diwas
India and Bangladesh celebrated 53rd Vijay Diwas, the event which marked India's victory over Pakistan in the 1971 war, and gave birth to its eastern neighbour. (Image credit: Rahul Gandhi's X)
'Grateful nation remembers ultimate sacrifice of bravehearts'
President Droupadi Murmu paid tributes to the soldiers who lost their lives during the 1971 Indo-Pak war. "On Vijay Diwas, I pay homage to our valiant soldiers who displayed indomitable courage during the 1971 war, securing victory for India. A grateful nation remembers the ultimate sacrifice of our bravehearts whose stories inspire every Indian and shall remain a source of national pride," she said. (Image credit: Indian Army's X)
'We honour courage, sacrifices of brave soldiers'
Prime Minister Narendra Modi commemorated the "courage and sacrifices of the brave soldiers who contributed to India's historic victory in 1971." In a post on X, he said, "Their selfless dedication and unwavering resolve safeguarded our nation and brought glory to us. This day is a tribute to their extraordinary valour and their unshakable spirit. Their sacrifices will forever inspire generations and remain deeply embedded in our nation's history." (Image credit: Indian Army's X)
'Country will remember heroes who liberated Bangladesh'
Sharing moments captured during the 1971 Vijay Diwas, leader of opposition in Lok Sabha said, "The country will always remember the indomitable courage and supreme sacrifice of all the heroes of the 1971 war who liberated Bangladesh from injustice while protecting the sovereignty of India." (Image credit: Rahul Gandhi's X)
Indian Armed forces, Bangladesh Army pay tributes
Officers from the Indian Armed forces, along with their Bangladesh Army counterparts, laid wreaths at Vijay Smarak, army headquarters eastern command, in Kolkata. Personnel from the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force took part in the commemorations, paying their respects at the headquarters. (Image credit: Indian Army's X)
'13 days, a new nation & one of the largest military surrenders'
Recalling the historic war, Indian Army said, "In just 13 days, the Indian Armed Forces showcased strategic brilliance, extraordinary bravery and unwavering resolve, leading to the comprehensive routing and one of the largest military surrenders of all times of over 93,000 Pakistani soldiers." (Image credit: Indian Army's X)
'Lightning War'
The Indo-Pak War of 1971 ended on December 16 with the surrender of Lt General AAK Niazi, leading to the creation of an independent Bangladesh. "This historic moment was achieved through a coordinated military effort, wherein the Indian Air Force (IAF) played a pivotal role in ensuring quick and decisive results in the 13-day conflict, aptly termed a "Lightning War'," Indian Army said. (Image credit: Indian Army's X)
IAF’s decisive role in Vijay Diwas
Recounting the Indian Air Force's decisive role in the victory on 1971 war, Indian Army said, "The 1971 War was a landmark in Indian military history, showcasing the IAF's precision, strength, and capability to shape outcomes on the battlefield. Its role in achieving this unparalleled victory remains a testament to the importance of air superiority in modern warfare." (Image credit: Indian Army's X)
Why is Vijay Diwas celebrated?
Vijay Diwas is celebrated on December 16 each year to commemorate India's victory in the 1971 Indo-Pak War, which led to the creation of Bangladesh as an independent nation. (Image credit: Indian Army's X)