The Indian Army in Dehradun commemorated Vijay Diwas with a solemn ceremony at the Shaurya Sthal on Tuesday, paying rich tributes to the valiant soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice during the decisive 1971 war between India and Pakistan.
Dignitaries Lead the Tributes
The homage was led by Uttarakhand Governor Lieutenant General Gurmit Singh (Retd). He was joined by key military figures including Uttarakhand Sub-Area GOC Major General MPS Gill and Joint Chief Hydrographer Rear Admiral Peush Pawsey. The ceremony saw a dignified gathering of senior Army officers, veterans, and personnel currently posted in the Dehradun area, all united in remembrance.
Remembering a Landmark Victory
During the event, Governor Lt Gen Singh interacted with both serving and retired personnel, lauding their unwavering contribution to national defence. Reflecting on the 1971 conflict, he described the victory as a landmark chapter in India's military history.
He emphasized that through exceptional bravery, courage, and strategic planning, the Indian armed forces achieved a monumental success. This campaign compelled the surrender of 93,000 Pakistani troops and was instrumental in the creation of Bangladesh as an independent nation, forever altering the geopolitical landscape of the region.
A Day for Reflection and Resolve
According to Defence PRO (Dehradun) Lieutenant Colonel Manish Srivastava, the Governor underscored that Vijay Diwas is not merely about looking back at past glory. He stated it is also a pivotal moment for introspection and renewed commitment.
Stressing the need for constant readiness, the Governor highlighted the importance of continued preparedness and vigilance to effectively counter future challenges. These challenges encompass a spectrum of both internal and external security concerns facing the nation.
The ceremony at Shaurya Sthal served as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices that underpin the nation's peace and security, reinforcing the ethos of service and duty within the armed forces community.
