President Smt Droupadi Murmu led the nation in paying homage to the valiant soldiers of the 1971 war on the occasion of Vijay Diwas, which is celebrated on 16th December every year to commemorate India’s historic victory over Pakistan. Through a post on X, the President stated that the grateful nation remembers the ultimate sacrifice of the bravehearts whose stories inspire every Indian, and remain a source of national pride.
Honouring the unmatched gallantry of the Armed Forces, Vice-President Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar also described the heroic valour and selfless sacrifice of the soldiers as a source of inspiration for every Indian, adding that the country will forever remain indebted to their service.
Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi honoured the courage and sacrifices of the soldiers, stating that their selfless dedication & unwavering resolve safeguarded the nation and brought glory. He termed the day as a tribute to their extraordinary valour and unshakable spirit.
Saluting the bravery and sacrifice of the Armed Forces, Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh said that the courage and patriotism of the soldiers ensured that the country remained safe. India will never forget their sacrifice and service, he said.
To mark the day, Raksha Mantri laid a wreath at the National War Memorial in New Delhi and paid homage to the bravehearts.
Raksha Rajya Mantri Shri Sanjay Seth, Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan, Chief of the Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi, Chief of the Air Staff Air Chief Marshal AP Singh, Defence Secretary Shri Rajesh Kumar Singh and Vice-Chief of the Naval Staff Vice-Admiral Krishna Swaminathan also laid wreaths & paid homage to the fallen heroes.