India celebrates Vijay Diwas, PM Modi pays tribute at National War Memorial

New Delhi: 'Vijay Diwas 2020' was celebrated on December 16 with the customary pomp and fervour at National War Memorial here in the national capital. Prime Minister Modi paid tribute at the Memorial on the 50th anniversary of 1971 that made Bangladesh an independent country. This day marks splendid victory achieved by India over Pakistan 49 years ago. The 'GREATEST VICTORY EVER' saw the emergence of Bangladesh as an independent nation and India rose as a regional power to reckon with. With this decisive victory over a formidable opponent the Armed Forces of India once again affirmed themselves as a strong component of national power.

'Swarnim Vijay Mashaal' – a symbol of victory – was also lit by the Prime Minister. There are four such mashaals or torches which will be carried to various parts of the country, including to villages of Param Vir Chakra and MahaVir Chakra Awardees of 1971 War.

"On Vijay Diwas we recall the unwavering courage of our armed forces that resulted in a decisive victory for our nation in the 1971 war. On this special Vijay Diwas, had the honour of lighting the 'Swarnim Vijay Mashaal' at the National War Memorial" tweeted PM Modi

The entire year is being celebrated as 'Swarnim Vijay Varsh' to commemorate the golden jubilee of the 1971 India-Pakistan war. Various commemorative events will be conducted pan-India wherein war Veterans and Veer Naris will be felicitated.

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Meanwhile, defence minister Rajnath Singh and home minister Amit Shah on Wednesday extended their wishes to countrymen on the occasion of the Vijay Diwas. The ministers saluted the bravery and courage of the Indian Army.

"Today, on the occasion of Vijay Diwas, I salute the valour and bravery of the Indian Army. I remember the bravery of our soldiers who wrote a new saga of bravery in the 1971 war. Their sacrifice is a source of inspiration for all Indians. Nation will always revere them," Singh said on Twitter.

The 1971 Indo-Pak War began with Pakistan launching pre-emptive airstrikes against 11 Indian airbases on 03 December 1971. The war was forced upon due to widespread genocide of people of East Pakistan carried out by an oppressive military regime under General Yahya Khan of Pakistan. The war, which was short and intense, was fought on both Eastern and Western fronts. The 13 days war resulted in complete surrender of Pakistan forces and the creation of Bangladesh. The Indian Armed Forces reigned supreme over the Pakistani military in the battlefield.

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