NEW DELHI: India on December 15 commemorated 50 years of the decisive victory in the 1971 liberation war of Bangladesh, which also changed the geography of South Asia.
In a Twitter post, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said, “On the 50th Vijay Diwas, I recall the great valour and sacrifice by the Muktijoddhas, Biranganas and bravehearts of the Indian armed forces. Together, we fought and defeated oppressive forces. Rashtrapati Ji’s presence in Dhaka is of special significance to every Indian”.
While unveiling an India Post special day cover and a commemorative stamp marking the golden jubilee, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh termed the war the “golden chapter” in India’s military history.
In the day, PM Modi and Singh paid homage at the National War Memorial, where the Victory Flame, which was lit a year back to mark the beginning of the celebrations and travelled across the country, culminated.
The stamp released on the occasion carries the ‘Swarnim Vijay Varsh’ logo, designed by Lt. Cdr. Kushal ChandrashekharIt was selected during an all-India competition held in October-November 2020. “The stamp also commemorates the espirit de corp and spirit of jointmanship displayed by the Indian Armed Forces as well as the IndoBangla forces,” a statement by the Defence Ministry said.
The day is celebrated as ‘Vijay Diwas’ every year to mark the surrender by Pakistani armed forces. The Instrument of Surrender was signed by Lt- Gen. Amir Abdullah Khan Niazi, Commander, Eastern Command of Pakistan. From the Indian side, it was signed by Lt-Gen Jagjit Singh Aurora, GOC-in-C of Indian and Bangladesh Forces in Eastern Theatre.
