Nation marks Vijay Diwas, pays tribute to heroes of 1971 war
New Delhi, December 16. India on December 16 commemorated Vijay Diwas, marking the country’s historic victory in the 1971 war, with leaders across the political and military spectrum paying homage to the courage and sacrifice of the Armed Forces.
President Droupadi Murmu led the tributes, remembering the bravery, devotion and patriotism of the soldiers whose valour brought glory to the nation. In a message shared on X, the President said their legacy would continue to inspire generations of Indians.
President Droupadi Murmu also highlighted the armed forces’ focus on “Empowerment through Indigenisation”, saying it reflected their preparedness to meet future challenges. Referring to Operation Sindoor, she noted that the military had demonstrated self-reliance, strategic resolve and the effective use of modern warfare techniques.
As part of the Vijay Diwas observances, the President inaugurated the Param Vir Dirgha gallery at Rashtrapati Bhavan. The gallery showcases portraits of all 21 Param Vir Chakra awardees and aims to familiarise visitors with the lives and achievements of India’s highest gallantry award recipients. The President also felicitated Param Vir Chakra awardees and the next of kin of those honoured posthumously.
The event at Rashtrapati Bhavan was attended by Defence Ministeer Rajnath Singh, Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan, Chief of the Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi, Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi, Chief of the Air Staff Air Chief Marshal AP Singh and other senior officials.
Vice-President CP Radhakrishnan also paid tribute to the fallen heroes, stating that the 1971 war reaffirmed India’s commitment to justice and freedom and highlighted the professionalism of the Army, Navy and Air Force.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi remembered the soldiers whose sacrifice ensured India’s victory in 1971, describing their steadfast resolve and selfless service as a source of enduring national pride. He said Vijay Diwas stands as a salute to their valour and a reminder of their indomitable spirit, which continues to inspire generations.
In New Delhi, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh laid a wreath at the National War Memorial to honour those who made the supreme sacrifice. In a post on X, he said the nation bows in pride and gratitude to the armed forces for the decisive victory of 1971, noting that the three services had operated in flawless coordination to reshape history and assert India’s strategic resolve.
Minister of State for Defence Sanjay Seth, who accompanied the Defence Minister, also paid homage, saying the heroic deeds of the brave hearts would continue to inspire the nation. Senior defence leadership, including the Chief of Defence Staff, the Service Chiefs, Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh and Vice Chief of the Naval Staff Vice Admiral Sanjay Vatsayan, also laid wreaths at the National War Memorial in tribute to the fallen heroes.
