Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh felicitated 300 war veterans, including women liberation war fighters, Veer Naris and their families, for their efforts during the 1971 war against Pakistan which saw the liberation of Bangladesh On December 16, 1971, India pulled off its biggest and most decisive military win with the surrender of nearly 93,000 Pakistani military and Government officials, thus ending the Indo-Pak war of 1971 which began on December 3.
India’s victory was a landmark event in its history in which the people of Assam played a pivotal role by extending their help to the Mukti Bahini and offering shelter to the people. The programme was a fitting tribute from the Centre to the people of the State. In his address, the Defence Minister described the veterans as important assets of the nation who are inspiration to every Indian.
Appreciating the Government of Assam for felicitating the veterans, the Minister stated that the event reflected a sense of respect not only for the
armed forces, but also for the country’s democratic values. He credited the coordination between the Centre and State governments of the North East which has ensured peace and stability on the Indo-Bangladesh border and helped the region usher in a new era of development.
On the occasion, Mr Singh also released a book ‘The Bravehearts of 1971’ in the presence of Assam Governor Prof. Jagdish Mukhi and Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma.
