Vijay Diwas: Nation Honors 1971 War Heroes

Why in the news?

 On Vijay Diwas, President, Vice-President, Prime Minister, and Raksha Mantri paid tribute to the brave soldiers of the 1971 war. The nation commemorated their sacrifice, which remains a source of inspiration and national pride.

Vijay Diwas: Nation Honors 1971 War Heroes

Vijay Diwas: Nation Pays Tribute to 1971 War Heroes

  • President’s Tribute: On Vijay Diwas (16th December), President Smt Droupadi Murmu led the nation in honoring the brave soldiers of the 1971 war. She emphasized their sacrifice as a source of inspiration and national pride.
  • Vice-President’s Acknowledgement: Vice-President Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar remembered the unmatched valor of the soldiers, calling their service a continuous source of inspiration for the nation, pledging that the country will remain indebted to their sacrifices.

Prime Minister’s Tribute

  • PM Narendra Modi’s Salute: Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi praised the soldiers’ selflessness and dedication. He highlighted that their unwavering resolve ensured national security and brought glory to India, calling the day a tribute to their extraordinary bravery and resilience.
  • Nation’s Gratitude: PM Modi reaffirmed that the sacrifices of the soldiers will never be forgotten, as they safeguarded the nation with unmatched courage and determination.

Raksha Mantri and Military Leaders Pay Homage

  • Raksha Mantri’s Tribute: Shri Rajnath Singh, the Defence Minister, laid a wreath at the National War Memorial in New Delhi, saluting the courage and patriotism of the soldiers. He assured that the nation will always remember their sacrifice and service.
  • Military Leadership’s Respect: Along with Shri Rajnath Singh, other defense leaders such as Raksha Rajya Mantri Shri Sanjay Seth, Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan, and Chief of Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi also laid wreaths in honor of the fallen heroes.

Kargil Vijay Diwas History:

  • Kargil War (May-July 1999): Pakistani soldiers infiltrate Indian territory; India launches Operation Vijay to reclaim positions.
  • Victory Declared (July 26, 1999): India defeats Pakistan, establishing Kargil Vijay Diwas.
  • Memorial: Kargil War Memorial in Dras honors soldiers’ valor and sacrifice.

Sources Referred:

PIB, The Hindu, Indian Express, Hindustan Times