16th of December marks and celebrates one of the most significant historic events of the Indian Armed Forces. The celebration of Vijay Divas on this date celebrates the victory of the Indian Armed Forces against the Pakistani troops. On this day, tributes are offered to all our valiant soldiers who placed their lives on the line during the war which also marked the 'biggest-ever military surrender after World War II' under the control of the Indian army. Since India and Pakistan’s partition in the year 1947, there has always been enmity between the two nations for multiple causes. One of these causes was with regard to East Pakistan at that time. In 1971, the Indo-Pakistan war began on December 3 and lasted for 13 days. This prolonged war between India and Pakistan is also linked to the freedom of Bangladesh and is referred to as the 'Bangladesh Liberation War of 1971'. It was a revolution and armed conflict sparked by the rise of the Bengali nationalist and self-determination movement in what was then East Pakistan. After long-winded warfare, the war ended officially on December 16 and around 93,0000 Pakistani soldiers surrendered to India. This thirteen-day war resulted in a massive army surrender of Pakistan and the creation of an independent Bangladesh. It was one of the most remarkable victories of the Indian army and India as the nation also rose as a regional power.
The Celebration of Vijay Divas 2022!
- On the occasion of Vijay Divas on 16th December, the Defence Minister of India and the heads of all three wings of the Indian Armed Forces will pay homage to the soldiers at Amar Jawan Jyoti at India Gate, New Delhi.
- The day will also be celebrated at Pune and 15 other cities across the southern command area of responsibility. A grand event with the theme of ‘Run for Soldier – Run with Soldier’ will be aimed at strengthening the bond between the Indian army and the masses, especially the youth.
- Bangladesh is also set to celebrate the Month of Victory with much festivity and enthusiasm amid a series of programmes throughout the month.
- Army and para-military forces would follow the day through a variety of events while the Bangladesh Assistant High Commissions in Guwahati and Agartala would organize cultural programmes, and discussions to commemorate the occasion.
Vijay Divas reminds us all to always reflect on the sacrifices of our war heroes and pay tributes to martyrs. While paying homage to our brave soldiers, the celebration of Vijay Divas 2022 will also highlight the caliber, prospect, and vibrancy of India. And as a progressing nation, India will always honour our soldiers who showed exceptional bravery and renounced their lives for the country.
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