New Delhi, Dec 16 (UNI) Congress leader Rahul Gandhi paid tribute to India’s armed forces on Vijay Diwas, honoring the bravery, sacrifice, and valor of soldiers who secured India’s historic victory in the 1971 war.
Commemorating the day that reshaped South Asia and led to the creation of Bangladesh, Gandhi highlighted the courage of the armed forces and remembered the decisive role played under the leadership of then-Prime Minister Indira Gandhi.
He said, “Their indomitable courage, struggle, and supreme sacrifice will forever remain an inspiration for every Indian.”
Posting pictures of late Prime Minister Indira Gandhi shaking hands with the three service chiefs in 1971 and a picture of the surrender ceremony at Dhaka, Gandhi said, “On this Vijay Diwas, I pay my respects to the brave heroes of our armed forces who, while defending India’s borders in the 1971 war, created history in the world with their valor, dedication, and unwavering resolve.”
On the anniversary of India’s historic 1971 victory, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge paid tribute to the nation’s armed forces and the Mukti Bahini, remembering their extraordinary bravery and sacrifice. In his tweet, Kharge wrote: “On this very day in 1971, history was made when India’s valiant armed forces decisively defeated Pakistan, leading to the independence of Bangladesh and giving a new shape to the map of the world.”
He further acknowledged the leadership of then-Prime Minister Smt. Indira Gandhi, stating: “Under the visionary, courageous, and resolute leadership of Smt. Indira Gandhi, this victory became a great example of humanity and justice.” Paying homage to the soldiers, he added: “We salute the extraordinary bravery, valor, and sacrifice of India’s military strength and the Mukti Bahini. The nation will forever remember the dedication and selfless service of these brave sons of Mother India.”
Senior military officials also honoured the fallen soldiers and reaffirmed the Army’s commitment to safeguarding the nation’s sovereignty. Ceremonial events, including wreath-laying ceremonies and commemorative parades, were held across military establishments.
On the occasion, the Indian Army highlighted the growing role of indigenous technology in strengthening its operational capabilities. Officials said domestically developed platforms, equipment, and systems are now being integrated across multiple domains, including surveillance, communications, mobility, and firepower.
Dubbing Vijay Diwas a landmark triumph that reshaped India’s military history, redrew the map of South Asia and gave birth to a new nation – Bangladesh, the Indian Army today 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 that Vijay Diwas is not just a date, but a symbol of the historic and decisive victory of the Indian Armed Forces. “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. A triumph that reshaped India’s military history, redrew the map of South Asia and gave birth to a new nation – Bangladesh,” the post continued.
Highlighting the war’s role in ending the brutal atrocities, oppression, and cruelty inflicted upon an entire community by the Pakistani Army, the post noted, “In just 13 days, the Indian Armed Forces displayed extraordinary courage, unshakable resolve and exceptional military skill, culminating in the surrender of 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 too commemorated the day with a video featuring rare, unseen pictures and videos of jets in action during the war. Titled ‘1971 War – Chronicle of Courage,’ the video features the Battle of Longewala, Tangail Assault, among other actions carried out day-wise during the 13-day war period.
In the accompanying post, the IAF wrote, “On 16 December 1971, Lt Gen AAK Niazi handed over his epaulets and revolver to the Indian Forces, marking the unconditional surrender of Pakistani Forces. Dacca erupted in joy as power was transferred to the new Government of Bangladesh.”
The Army noted that the adoption of home-grown solutions has enhanced operational readiness while reducing dependence on imports. Collaboration with Indian industry, start-ups, and research institutions has accelerated innovation and facilitated faster induction of new technologies.
Rahul Gandhi, Mallikarjun Kharge pay tribute to Armed Forces on Vijay Diwas
