New Delhi, Dec 16: Terming Vijay Diwas a landmark triumph that reshaped India’s military history, redrew the map of South Asia and led to the birth of Bangladesh, the Indian Army on Monday recalled the valour and courage displayed by the Indian Armed Forces during the 1971 war.
In a post titled “VijayDiwas: The Eternal Story of the 1971 War” on X, the Additional Directorate General of Public Information said Vijay Diwas is not merely a date but a powerful symbol of the historic and decisive victory of the Indian Armed Forces in the 1971 conflict.
“It was a victory where the Mukti Bahini and the Indian Armed Forces fought shoulder-to-shoulder, together giving the Bangladesh Liberation struggle its decisive thrust toward freedom,” the post said, describing the triumph as one that reshaped India’s military history and altered the geopolitical landscape of South Asia.
Highlighting the war’s role in ending widespread atrocities committed by the Pakistani Army, the Army noted that in just 13 days, Indian forces displayed extraordinary courage, unshakeable resolve and exceptional military skill, culminating in the surrender of nearly 93,000 Pakistani soldiers one of the largest military surrenders in global history.
“This day stands as a testament to India’s loyalty to its friends and a clear message to its adversaries then and now when India rises for justice, victory is inevitable,” the post concluded.
The Indian Air Force (IAF) also commemorated Vijay Diwas by releasing a video titled “1971 War Chronicle of Courage,” featuring rare and unseen visuals of air operations during the conflict, including the Battle of Longewala and the Tangail assault, presented day-wise over the 13-day war period.
In its accompanying post, the IAF recalled that on December 16, 1971, Lieutenant General A.A.K. Niazi handed over his revolver and epaulettes, marking the unconditional surrender of Pakistani forces in Dhaka and the transfer of power to the newly formed Government of Bangladesh.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute to the bravehearts of the 1971 war, remembering their courage and sacrifice that ensured a historic victory for India. He said their heroism continues to inspire generations and remains a moment of enduring national pride.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh also honoured the armed forces, stating that the Army, Navy and Air Force operated in flawless coordination during the war, delivering a decisive victory that reshaped history and asserted India’s strategic resolve.