India Honors 1971 War Heroes as President Murmu, PM Modi Salute Armed Forces' Victory
Vijay Diwas celebrated on December 16 is a day when India remembers its victory in the war against Pakistan in 1971 which resulted in the birth of Bangladesh. In this context, the country salutes the heroes of the armed forces who sacrificed their lives.
Aadrika Tayal 
New Delhi (India) December 16: Vijay Diwas 'At Home' was organised by the Indian Army at the Army House on Monday to mark the triumphant moment of the Indian Armed Forces in the 1971 War.
President Droupadi Murmu gave her esteemed presence at the event. Besides the president, the event was graced by 73 Ambassadors and High Commissioners, Gallantry Award winners, eminent sportspersons, achievers from diverse fields and senior Indian leadership.
PM Modi's Emotional Tribute to 1971 Bravehearts on X
On the occasion of the 54th Vijay Diwas, Prime Minister Narendra Modi sent out warm wishes via a social media post.
In a post on platform X, PM Modi paid tribute to the brave armed forces that fought the 1971 war resulting in the freedom of Bangladesh.
“On Vijay Diwas, we remember the brave soldiers whose courage and sacrifice ensured India had a historic victory in 1971. Their steadfast resolve and selfless service protected our nation and etched a moment of pride in our history. This day stands as a salute to their valour and a reminder of their unmatched spirit. Their heroism continues to inspire generations of Indians," he posted on social media platform X.
Remembering the 1971 War and Pakistan's Surrender
Vijay Diwas is an annual celebration of the triumph of the Indian Armed Forces in the 1971 Indo-Pak war, a war that led to the birth of Bangladesh. Hundred and thirteen days later, it was December 16, 1971 when the armed forces of Pakistan laid down their arms. More than 90,000 prisoners of war were captured which was one of the biggest surrenders of World War Two in the postwar period.
This day is credited with ceremonies where people place wreaths on war memorials, mostly at the National War Memorial in New Delhi. In celebration of the fallen heroes, senior defense officials, veterans, and others commemorate the virtues of duty and service for many veteran and general public figures.
Indian Army's Modern Push: Innovation and Self-Reliance
The Defence Ministry said that the Vijay Diwas 'At Home' displays reflected how the Indian Army had been rejuvenated through Indian intellect, Indian industry and Indian values, mixing operational experience with innovation to not only secure the country but also to promote self-reliance and sustainable development.
The Ministry conveyed that the celebrations featured a range of technologies developed locally along with the niche capabilities, which put a spotlight on the Indian Army as a force that is gradually changing in a manner that it is becoming a modern, innovative and self-reliant one.
