Agartala: The Indian Army and Bangladesh Army observed Vijay Diwas on Monday, commemorating the 53rd anniversary of Bangladesh’s liberation from Pakistani rule in 1971.
This momentous occasion celebrates the bravery and resilience of the Bangladeshi people and Indian Armed Forces who fought side by side for freedom and independence.
The Bangladesh Liberation War was a pivotal moment in modern history, resulting in the creation of Bangladesh as a sovereign Nation. The war culminated in the surrender of more than 93,000 Pakistani Forces on 16th Dec 1971, an unparalleled feat in modern wars.
“As we celebrate this milestone, we honour the sacrifices of the brave hearts who laid down their lives for the nation. To celebrate this momentous victory, the senior army officers of the Indian Army and Bangladesh Army exchanged sweets at the Akhura along the Indo-Bangladesh Border as a symbol of their enduring friendship and cooperation. This tradition shall be a hallmark in the strengthening of bilateral ties between the two nations,” the release added.
The Indian Army also commemorated the Vijay Diwas with grandeur at the Albert Ekka War Memorial in Tripura’s Agartala. The highlight of the solemn occasion was a wreath-laying ceremony led by Tripura Governor Indra Sena Reddy Nallu.
Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute to soldiers who contributed to India’s victory in the 1971 war against Pakistan on Vijay Diwas.
In a post on X, Prime Minister Modi stated that the selfless dedication and unwavering resolve of soldiers safeguarded our nation and brought glory to India in the war.
“Today, on Vijay Diwas, we honour the courage and sacrifices of the brave soldiers who contributed to India’s historic victory in 1971. Their selfless dedication and unwavering resolve safeguarded our nation and brought glory to us. This day is a tribute to their extraordinary valour and their unshakeable spirit. Their sacrifices will forever inspire generations and remain deeply embedded in our nation’s history,” PM Modi’s post reads.
Vijay Diwas is an annual observance to commemorate India’s victory over Pakistan in the 1971 Indo-Pak War, which led to the segregation of East Pakistan (now Bangladesh) and West Pakistan (now Pakistan).
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The day celebrates the sacrifice, bravery, and strategic brilliance of the Indian Armed Forces, who achieved a historic victory in one of modern history’s shortest and most decisive wars.
It also promotes national unity and holds immense significance for India and Bangladesh over shared history.