On December 16, 2024, India observed Vijay Diwas, a day dedicated to remembering the bravery and sacrifice of soldiers who fought in the 1971 India-Pakistan war. President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid heartfelt tributes to the soldiers who secured a historic victory, leading to the creation of Bangladesh.
Remembering a Historic Victory
Vijay Diwas, celebrated annually on December 16, marks the day when Pakistani forces formally surrendered to the combined might of India and Bangladesh’s Mukti Bahini. This surrender, led by Pakistani General Amir Abdullah Khan Niazi, occurred after a 13-day war that began on December 3, 1971. The war was triggered by the humanitarian crisis in East Pakistan, where the Pakistani military launched brutal attacks on civilians. India intervened to support the region’s struggle for independence, leading to a decisive victory.
The Pakistani surrender, involving the capitulation of around 93,000 soldiers, remains the largest military surrender since World War II. While the victory gave birth to Bangladesh, it came at a heavy cost, with an estimated 3,900 Indian soldiers losing their lives and many more injured.
Tributes and Commemorations
The Indian Air Force (IAF) took to social media to highlight its vital role in the victory. On the platform X, the IAF shared a post about its extensive air campaign, with over 4,400 missions across both the Western and Eastern fronts. These operations were crucial in securing air superiority and aiding ground forces, hastening the collapse of Pakistani defenses. In a poignant moment, General Niazi, when asked why he surrendered despite having a largely intact army, pointed to the Indian Air Force insignia on an officer's uniform and remarked, "Because of this—you, the Indian Air Force."
Prime Minister Modi also paid tribute to the soldiers, acknowledging their courage and sacrifices. The PM said "On Vijay Diwas, we respect the selfless dedication as well bravery of the soldiers who brought glory to India. Their sacrifices will forever inspire us and be remembered as a proud part of our history," he said in a post on X.
Defense Minister Rajnath Singh joined in honoring the fallen soldiers, emphasizing their patriotism and the safety they secured for the nation. The nation salutes the bravery of our armed forces; Their unwavering courage ensured the safety of our country, and we will never forget their sacrifice," the defence minister noted..
A Grateful Nation Remembers
President Droupadi Murmu expressed deep respect for the soldiers' sacrifice, calling their courage during the 1971 war a source of national pride. "On the Victory Day, I pay homage to our brave soldiers whose ultimate sacrifice secured India's victory. Their stories of bravery inspire every Indian, President Murmu shared on social media.
As India marks this significant day in its history, the bravery and sacrifices of the 1971 war heroes will continue to be celebrated and remembered for generations to come.