President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Monday, led the nation in paying tribute to the soldiers of the 1971 war on the occasion of Vijay Diwas.
Vijay Diwas is celebrated on December 16 every year to commemorate India’s historic victory over Pakistan. The day marks the surrender of Pakistani forces to the Indian Army in 1971, leading to the creation of Bangladesh. The stupendous victory in the war following the surrender of over 90,000 Pakistani soldiers on December 16, 1971 ended horrific violence unleashed by the Pakistani army on millions of Bangladeshis.
Taking to X, President Murmu said a grateful India "remembers the ultimate sacrifice of our bravehearts whose stories inspire every Indian and shall remain a source of national pride."
Their selfless dedication and unwavering resolve safeguarded our nation and brought glory to us, wrote PM Modi in a social media post. The PM termed the day a tribute to their extraordinary valour and unshakable spirit.
Paying tribute to the soldiers, Vice President of India Jagdeep Dhankhar noted that the nation remains forever indebted to the service of these to the country.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh laid a wreath at the National War Memorial in New Delhi and paid homage to the bravehearts.
In a social media post, the defence minister said the unwavering courage and patriotism of the soldiers ensured that our country remained safe.
Chief of Defence Staff Gen Anil Chauhan too paid rich tributes to the fallen heroes of the war. Gen Chauhan conveyed his compliments to all serving personnel, veterans and 'Veer Naris' for their dedication, resolve and "enduring commitment" towards the nation.