STATE TIMES NEWS
UDHAMPUR: The 49th anniversary of “VIJAY DIWAS” was celebrated with traditional enthusiasm at HQ Northern Command today. A large number of ex-servicemen and service personnel participated in the celebrations and paid homage to our martyrs who laid down their lives in Indo-Pak War of 1971.
Each year, 16 December is celebrated as “VIJAY DIVAS” to commemorate India’s historic victory over Pakistan. The swift and professionally planned operations executed by the Indian Armed Forces led to one of the greatest military victories recorded in the annals of World History. It was on this day, that the largest military surrender after World War II took place at Dhaka when Lt Gen Jagjit Singh Arora, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief of Eastern Command, accepted the surrender of 93000 Pakistani troops from Lt Gen AAK Niazi of the Pakistan Army. This historic victory signifies a unique and unparalleled feat wherein our forces fought selflessly for a just and noble cause of liberation of the people of erstwhile East Pakistan and the creation of a sovereign and independent Bangladesh.
The Northern Command commemorated the occasion with a wreath laying ceremony at Dhruva Shahid Smarak by Lt Gen YK Joshi, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Northern Command. He highlighted the role of the Indian Armed Forces in achieving the major military victory in the 1971 War. This glorious day in the annals of history of India was made possible due to the supreme sacrifice of our valiant soldiers during the War. The Indian Army changed the course of history with its undeterred courage, dedication and professionalism, bringing glory and honour to the Nation. While remembering all the bravehearts who laid down their lives for the Nation, all ranks of the Northern Command reaffirmed their steadfast and lifelong commitment to their families. Their indomitable courage, unflagging zeal and dogged determination shall always be a great source of inspiration for all ranks of the Indian Army.