The 1971 war has its own special significance as it remains one of the shortest successful wars ever fought. The conflict started on 03 December 1971 and within 13 days, Pakistan suffered its worst-ever defeat.
It resulted in the splitting of Pakistan, giving birth to the sovereign nation, Bangladesh. During this operation, the Indian Armed Forces forced the surrender of 93,000 Pakistani troops. The operations ended on 16 Dec 1971 at Dhaka after the unconditional surrender of the Pakistani forces, one of the largest in military history. This historic day is celebrated every year as “Vijay Diwas” in India and “Bijoy Dibos” in Bangladesh.
To commemorate the bravery and sacrifice of those who participated in the 1971 War, a solemn Vijay Diwas function was organized at Albert Ekka War Memorial, Lichu Bagan by Red Shield Gunners.
The day commenced with a Wreath Laying Ceremony in honour of all those who made the supreme sacrifice for the nation during the 1971 war. Wreaths were laid by Dr Manik Saha, Hon’ble Chief Minister of Tripura, Station Commander, Agartala Military Station, Sector Commander of Assam Rifles, Chairman, Rajya Sainik Welfare Board and veterans of the 1971 war.
Later, a Cultural Evening with patriotic fervour was conducted at Albert Ekka War Memorial to commemorate the day. The event was jointly organized by Tripura Government, the Assistant High Commission of Bangladesh in Agartala and the Indian Army. The event was marked with the presence of the Chief Minister as Chief Guest, Sushant Choudhary, Minister of Information and Cultural Affairs, Arif Mohammad, Assistant High Commissioner of Bangladesh, a number of senior officials from the state administration, Indian Army, Assam Rifles, BSF and CRPF, war veterans of 1971 war and citizen of Tripura. The event also witnessed the presence of a large number of school children and NCC cadets. Mesmerizing performances by local artists, the cultural team from Bangladesh, students of Army Public School, Agartala, NCC Cadets and Bhangra by India Army troops made the evening memorable.
Tripura Chief Minister, Dr Manik Saha during his address remembered the 1971 war and the role played by the valiant people of Tripura during this war. He also praised the role of Mukti Jodhas who fought alongside the Indian Armed Forces to achieve their dream of a free Bangladesh. He further said that India and Bangladesh have a long and lasting friendship which has become stronger with time. He also said that Bangladesh and Tripura are not only geographical neighbours but have deep historical and cultural ties and these relations will only become stronger in times to come.
During the program, Chief Minister also felicitated 1971 war veterans in recognition of their invaluable service to the nation and school children who bagged prizes in a Painting Competition organized for children on 11 Dec 2022 to commemorate this historic day.