Vijay Diwas 2024

1. Vijay Diwas, celebrated annually on 16th December, commemorates India’s victory over Pakistan in the Indo-Pak War of 1971, which led to the liberation of Bangladesh (then East Pakistan).
2. This day marks a significant moment in India's military history and highlights the role of India in supporting humanitarian causes, as well as its commitment to regional peace and sovereignty.

Vijay Diwas

Date	16th December
Commemoration	India’s victory in the 1971 Indo-Pak War and the creation of Bangladesh.
Instrument of Surrender	Signed by Lt. Gen. A.A.K. Niazi of Pakistan in Dhaka, marking victory.
Indian Leadership	Indira Gandhi (Prime Minister) and Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw (Army Chief).
Pakistani Leadership	Lt. Gen. A.A.K. Niazi (Pakistani Eastern Command)
Significance	Honor bravery, symbolize national pride, and strengthen India-Bangladesh relations.
Observances	Wreath-laying, military parades, educational events, and cultural programs.

Historical Context of Vijay Diwas:

1. Indo-Pak War of 1971: The war lasted for 13 days, from 3rd December to 16th December, and ended with the surrender of 93,000 Pakistani soldiers to the Indian Armed Forces.
2. Bangladesh Liberation: The war directly resulted in the creation of Bangladesh and the end of East Pakistan’s oppressive rule.
3. Signing of the Instrument of Surrender: On 16th December, Lt. Gen. A.A.K. Niazi, commander of the Pakistani Eastern Command, signed the Instrument of Surrender in Dhaka, officially ending the war and marking the birth of Bangladesh.

Why Vijay Diwas is Celebrated:

1. Victory in the 1971 War:

   1. India’s military achieved a decisive victory over Pakistan.
   2. The surrender of 93,000 Pakistani soldiers was a massive defeat for Pakistan and solidified India’s military dominance in the region.

2. Liberation of Bangladesh:

   1. The victory led to the creation of Bangladesh, ending the oppression faced by East Pakistan under West Pakistan’s rule.
   2. India played a central role in supporting the independence movement of the Bengali people.

3. Symbol of National Pride:

   1. Vijay Diwas is celebrated to honor the courage, leadership, and strategic brilliance of India’s military, and serves as a reminder of India’s commitment to fighting for justice and human rights.

Key Events of 1971:

1. Declaration of War: The Indo-Pak War began on 3rd December 1971, after Pakistan launched airstrikes on Indian airbases, prompting India to declare war in defense of its sovereignty and in support of East Pakistan’s independence.

2. Surrender at Dhaka:

   1. On 16th December, the Pakistani military in East Pakistan, under Lt. Gen. Niazi, surrendered to the Indian and Bangladesh Mukti Bahini (Liberation Army) forces in Dhaka.
   2. This surrender led to the formation of Bangladesh, with India playing a crucial role in the liberation process.

Key Figures in the 1971 War:

1. Indian Leadership:

   1. Indira Gandhi: Prime Minister of India, whose leadership and political acumen were key to India’s success.
   2. Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw: Chief of Army Staff, whose strategic vision and military leadership were instrumental in achieving victory.
   3. Lt. Gen. Jagjit Singh Aurora: Commander of the Eastern Command, who oversaw military operations in East Pakistan.

2. Pakistani Leadership:

   1. Lt. Gen. A.A.K. Niazi: Commander of Pakistan’s Eastern Command, who signed the Instrument of Surrender in Dhaka.
   2. President Yahya Khan: Head of Pakistan at the time, whose mismanagement and military actions led to the war and the eventual loss.

Vijay Diwas 2024 Observances:

1. Tributes to Fallen Soldiers:

   1. Wreath-laying ceremonies are held at memorials like the National War Memorial (Delhi) and Vijay Smarak (Kolkata).
   2. Memorial services across India pay homage to the soldiers who laid down their lives in the 1971 conflict.

2. Military Parades:

   1. The Eastern Command in Kolkata organizes military parades, showcasing the strength and spirit of the Indian military.
   2. Military tattoos and displays are organized to honor the bravery of the armed forces.

3. Educational and Cultural Events:

   1. Schools, universities, and cultural organizations across India hold events to educate younger generations about the historical importance of Vijay Diwas.
   2. Documentaries, talks, and exhibitions about the 1971 war are conducted to inform people about the sacrifices and the strategic importance of the victory.

Also Read
UPSC Prelims Result	UPSC Daily Current Affairs
UPSC Monthly Mgazine	Previous Year Interview Questions
Free MCQs for UPSC Prelims	UPSC Test Series
ENSURE IAS NOTES	Our Booklist