The nation is celebrating Vijay Diwas on December 16, 2025, commemorating India’s historic victory in the 1971 war. Through a post on X, President Smt Droupadi Murmu paid glowing tributes to the bravehearts, whose valour, devotion & patriotism have always brought glory to the nation, and will continue to inspire every citizen. The President added that the ‘Empowerment through Indigenisation’ initiative of the Indian Armed Forces reflects their commitment towards being prepared for future challenges. “During Operation Sindoor, our Armed Forces demonstrated self-reliance, strategic resolve, and the effective use of modern warfare techniques, which serves as an inspiration to the entire nation,” she said.

To mark the day, the President inaugurated Param Vir Dirgha at Rashtrapati Bhavan. The Gallery displays portraits of all 21 Param Vir Chakra (PVC) awardees. The aim is to educate visitors about the national heroes who displayed an unconquerable spirit in defending the nation.

The President also felicitated PVC awardees and Next-of-Kin on the occasion. Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh, Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan, Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi, Chief of the Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi, Chief of the Air Staff Air Chief Marshal AP Singh, and other dignitaries were present.

Vice-President Shri CP Radhakrishnan also paid homage to the brave heroes through a post on X, and said that the 1971 war reaffirmed India’s commitment to justice & freedom and showcased the unmatched professionalism of the three Services.

Remembering the brave soldiers whose courage and sacrifice ensured India’s historic victory in 1971, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi said: “Their steadfast resolve and selfless service protected our nation and etched a moment of pride in our history. This day stands as a salute to their valour and a reminder of their unmatched spirit. Their heroism continues to inspire generations of Indians.”

Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh laid a wreath at the National War Memorial, New Delhi, and paid homage to the bravehearts who made the supreme sacrifice in the service of the nation.

“The nation bows in pride and gratitude to the Indian Armed Forces who delivered the decisive victory of 1971. The Army, Navy and Air Force operated in flawless coordination, reshaping history and asserting India’s strategic resolve. Their valour, discipline and combat spirit continue to inspire generations and strengthen our national will,” said Shri Rajnath Singh on X.

Raksha Rajya Mantri Shri Sanjay Seth, who accompanied Raksha Mantri at the wreath laying ceremony, also paid tribute to the bravehearts, stating that their heroic tales will continue to inspire every Indian for generations to come.

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 & Vice Chief of the Naval Staff Vice Admiral Sanjay Vatsayan also laid wreaths at the National War Memorial & paid tributes to the fallen heroes.

           ***

VK/Savvy