Pune: Southern Command Honours 1971 War Veterans and Veer Naris on Vijay Diwas
Pune, 16th December 2025: Southern Command of the Indian Army on Tuesday commemorated Vijay Diwas 2025 with a solemn wreath-laying ceremony and felicitation of veterans and Veer Naris at the Southern Command War Memorial, marking 54 years of India’s decisive victory in the 1971 Indo-Pakistan War.
The observance was led by Lt Gen Dhiraj Seth, PVSM, AVSM, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Southern Command, in the presence of serving personnel and veterans from the Indian Army, Indian Air Force and Indian Navy. A commemorative wreath was laid at the War Memorial on behalf of all ranks of Southern Command to honour the soldiers, airmen and sailors who laid down their lives in the defence of the nation. A moment of silence was observed as a mark of remembrance and respect for the martyrs of the 1971 war.
As part of the Vijay Diwas programme, veterans, including those who took part in the 1971 operations, were felicitated for their service and contribution to one of India’s most significant military victories. Veer Naris were also honoured during the ceremony, recognising their courage, resilience and sacrifice. Officials said the felicitation reflected the Armed Forces’ continued commitment to honouring veterans and war widows and preserving the legacy of duty and sacrifice.
The commemoration concluded with an interaction between the Army Commander, serving personnel, veterans and Veer Naris at the Southern Command Museum lawns adjacent to the War Memorial. The interaction highlighted the enduring bond between generations of soldiers and their families, united by a shared history of service, sacrifice and victory.
Vijay Diwas is observed annually on December 16 to commemorate India’s victory in the 1971 war, which led to the creation of Bangladesh and remains a defining moment in the country’s military history.
