Vijay Diwas 2021: Know History And Significance Of The 1971 War

On December 16, every year, India celebrates Vijay Diwas to honour the soldiers' valour. Vijay Diwas commemorates India's victory over Pakistan in the 1971 war. This year, India celebrates the 50th anniversary of the victory. The country celebrates the momentous win with pride and zeal.

Vijay Diwas: History, Significance Of The 1971 War

Indian soldiers made significant sacrifices during the 1971 war. Over 9800 Indian soldiers were injured, and around 3,900 Indian soldiers sacrificed their lives. The day tells the story of India's bravest sons' valour, unshakable courage, and sacrifice.

History Of Vijay Diwas

Vijay Diwas is an Indian national holiday that commemorates India's victory over Pakistan in the 1971 war. At the end of the fight, 93,000 Pakistani soldiers surrendered. East Pakistan, now known as Bangladesh, gained independence after India's victory. The Pakistani Army's East Pakistan (now Bangladesh) commander, Lt Gen AAK Niazi, accepted to surrender to India's Eastern Army Commander, Lt Gen Jagjit Singh Arora. On the evening of December 16, General Niazi accepted the surrender documents, and India was declared the winner of the war. As a result, the day is known as Vijay Diwas, and it is observed every year.

Significance Of December 16, 1971

On December 16, 1971, Lt Gen Jagjit Singh Arora arrived at Dhaka airport at 4.30 p.m. by chopper. He and General Niazi were at a table together, signing the surrender papers. General Niazi's revolver was handed over to Lt General Arora. The tears welled up in Niazi's eyes. Locals appeared to be planning Niazi's murder, but senior Indian military leaders rescued him.

The entire Parliament House erupted in joy when the victory was declared. Indira Gandhi, on the other hand, was in her Parliament House office holding a television interview. And it was at that point that General Manekshaw informed her of India's amazing victory. Indira Gandhi declared that India had won the war during a heated debate in the Lok Sabha. After Indira Gandhi's statement, the entire house was filled with enthusiasm.