Vijay Diwas 2023: Date, History, Significance of the day

Vijay Diwas is celebrated every year on December to mark India’s victory over Pakistan in the Bangladesh Liberation War of 1971.

Vijay Diwas 2023: On December 16, India’s Armed Forces, including veterans, citizens, and students, commemorate and pay tribute to the sacrifices of their soldiers on Vijay Diwas. During the 1971 war, when India defeated Pakistan, Bangladesh was also liberated. Vijay Diwas commemorates this historic military victory.

What is Vijay Diwas?

Vijay Diwas is celebrated every year on December to mark India’s victory over Pakistan in the Bangladesh Liberation War of 1971. On this day, the Indian armed forces achieved a decisive victory over Pakistan, leading to the liberation of Bangladesh. The war lasted for just 13 days and ended on December 16, 1971, with the surrender of Pakistani forces. India’s victory was a turning point in its history, and it also changed the course of the South Asian region.

Every year on Vijay Diwas, we remember the brave soldiers who laid down their lives for our country and pay tribute to their sacrifice. We also reaffirm our commitment to safeguard our territorial integrity and defend our borders at all costs. The day is also observed as National Unity Day to promote unity and brotherhood among all Indians.

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The History of Vijay Diwas

On December 16, 1971, the Indian Navy destroyed Pakistan’s sole aircraft carrier, the PNS Ghazi, in the Bay of Bengal during the Bangladesh Liberation War. The destruction of the Ghazi was a major turning point in the war and came to be known as Vijay Diwas (Victory Day) in India.

The PNS Ghazi was a World War II-vintage vessel that had been refitted and was one of the most modern ships in the Pakistani Navy. It was equipped with sophisticated radar and sonar systems and carried torpedoes and anti-ship missiles. The Ghazi had been deployed to the Bay of Bengal to target Indian shipping and disrupt operations during the war.

On December 3, 1971, the Indian Navy launched an air strike on Chittagong port in Bangladesh, destroying several Pakistani ships including two oil tankers. In response, Pakistan dispatched the Ghazi to target Indian warships operating in the area.

On December 14, 1971, after days of searching for Indian targets, the Ghazi entered into Indian waters off Visakhapatnam port. The following day, it was detected by Indian Navy ships and aircraft which began tracking its movements. On December 16,1971, after being depth-charged by Indian warships, the Ghazi exploded and sank with all hands aboard.

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The Significance of Vijay Diwas

Vijay Diwas, which is celebrated on December 16, commemorates the victory of the Indian Armed Forces over Pakistan in the Bangladesh Liberation War of 1971. The day is also known as Victory Day. The Pakistani Army signed the instrument of surrender on this day in 1971, which led to Bangladesh’s liberation.

The war lasted for just under three months, and it was a resounding victory for India. Not only did India succeed in liberating Bangladesh, but it also dealt a severe blow to Pakistan’s military. The victory is all the more significant because it was achieved against a much larger and better-equipped enemy.

The significance of Vijay Diwas lies not just in the military victory, but also in the fact that it led to the birth of a new nation – Bangladesh. The war was fought not just to liberate Bangladeshis from Pakistani oppression, but also to give them their own identity and voice.

The day is thus a reminder of India’s commitment to protecting its smaller neighbours and ensuring their sovereignty and independence. It is also a day to remember and honour the brave soldiers who sacrificed their lives for our freedom.

How is Vijay Diwas commemorated?

Vijay Diwas is commemorated every year on December in India. It is a day to remember and honor the victory of India over Pakistan in the Bangladesh Liberation War of 1971. On this day, the Indian Armed Forces defeated the Pakistani Army and helped secure the independence of Bangladesh.

Since then, Vijay Diwas has been celebrated annually as a national holiday in India. On this day, wreaths are laid at war memorials across the country in remembrance of the brave soldiers who sacrificed their lives for the nation. Parades and other events are also held to honor their heroism.

Conclusion

Vijay Diwas is a day to remember and celebrate the brave soldiers who fought for our country’s freedom. It is also a day to promote peace and harmony, which are essential for any nation’s progress. We hope that by sharing information about Vijay Diwas, we can encourage more people to learn about and respect the sacrifices of our armed forces personnel.