- President leads the nation in honouring the heroes who scripted India’s historic victory in the 1971 war
- Param Vir Dirgha inaugurated at Rashtrapati Bhavan to showcase portraits of all 21 Param Vir Chakra awardees
- 1971 war and Operation Sindoor reflect self-reliance, strategic resolve and modern warfare excellence
- From the President to the Prime Minister, the nation unites in gratitude to its brave soldiers
NE DEFENCE BUREAU
NEW DELHI, DEC 16
India marked Vijay Diwas on December 16 with solemn pride and patriotic fervour, commemorating the nation’s historic victory in the 1971 war—a triumph that reshaped the subcontinent and reaffirmed India’s commitment to justice, freedom and strategic resolve.
Leading the nation’s tributes, President Droupadi Murmu hailed the courage, devotion and patriotism of the bravehearts whose sacrifices brought lasting glory to the country. In a message shared on X, she underlined that the valour of India’s soldiers continues to inspire generations and strengthen national unity. She also highlighted the Armed Forces’ thrust on “Empowerment through Indigenisation”, noting that self-reliance and preparedness remain central to India’s future security.
Drawing a link between past and present, the President said the Indian Armed Forces’ performance during Operation Sindoor demonstrated strategic clarity, operational resolve and effective use of modern warfare techniques—qualities that continue to inspire the nation.
Param Vir Dirgha: A tribute in permanence
As part of the Vijay Diwas commemorations, the President inaugurated the Param Vir Dirgha at Rashtrapati Bhavan. The gallery displays portraits of all 21 Param Vir Chakra awardees, India’s highest gallantry honour, and aims to educate citizens about the unmatched courage and indomitable spirit of the nation’s greatest warriors.
On the occasion, the President also felicitated Param Vir Chakra awardees and their next of kin. Senior defence leadership, including the Chiefs of the Army, Navy and Air Force, the Chief of Defence Staff and other dignitaries, were present at the ceremony.
Leaders recall the glory of 1971
Vice-President C.P. Radhakrishnan paid homage to the fallen heroes, stating that the 1971 war reaffirmed India’s unwavering commitment to justice and freedom and showcased the unmatched professionalism and coordination of the three Services.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi remembered the soldiers whose courage and sacrifice ensured India’s decisive victory, calling Vijay Diwas “a salute to their valour and a reminder of their unmatched spirit.” He said their heroism continues to inspire generations and remains a source of enduring national pride.
Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh laid a wreath at the National War Memorial in New Delhi, paying homage to the bravehearts who made the supreme sacrifice for the nation. He said the flawless coordination of the Army, Navy and Air Force in 1971 reshaped history and asserted India’s strategic will.
“The nation bows in pride and gratitude to the Armed Forces whose valour, discipline and combat spirit continue to inspire generations and strengthen our national resolve,” he said.
MoS for Defence Sanjay Seth, along with senior military and civil officials, also laid wreaths at the memorial, honouring the fallen heroes and reaffirming that their sacrifices will forever guide the nation’s spirit.
As India commemorates Vijay Diwas, the day stands not only as a remembrance of a glorious military victory, but also as a timeless salute to the courage, unity and sacrifice of the Indian Armed Forces—past, present and future.
