TO COMMEMORATE THE 30TH ANNIVERSARY OF PAKISTAN ARMY’S SURRENDER IN BANGLA WAR ON 16TH DECEMBER 1971

Event: Commemorating the 30th Anniversary of the Pakistan Army’s Surrender in the Bangladesh Liberation War

📅 Date: Sunday, 16th December 2001 at 11:00 A.M.

📍 Venue: Parliament Annexe, Parliament Street, New Delhi

🎤 Speakers:

  • Lt. Gen. (Retd) J.F.R. Jacob, PVSM (Governor of Punjab)
  • Hiren Pathak (Union State Minister for Defence Production)
  • Lt. Gen. (Retd.) Adi M. Sethna, PVSM, AVSM (Member, Minorities Commission, Govt. of India)
  • Lt. Gen. K. K. Nanda (Retd.) (All India President, Purv Sainik Seva Parishad)
  • Shri A. K. Ray, IFS (Jt. Secretary, Ministry of External Affairs, 1971)

🇮🇳 Event Overview

This special event was held to commemorate the 30th anniversary of the historic surrender of the Pakistan Army on 16th December 1971, marking India's victory in the Bangladesh Liberation War. The event honored the bravery of Indian Armed Forces and the struggle of the Bangladeshi people for independence.

🎖️ Key Discussion Points

🔹 The Role of Indian Armed Forces in 1971 – Lt. Gen. J.F.R. Jacob, a key strategist in the war, shared first-hand accounts of the planning and execution of military operations, including the historic surrender of 93,000 Pakistani troops in Dhaka.

🔹 Defence Production & India's Military Strength – Hiren Pathak highlighted how India’s defense capabilities have evolved since 1971 and the need for continued modernization of military production.

🔹 Humanitarian & Strategic Aspects of the War – Lt. Gen. Adi M. Sethna and Shri A.K. Ray reflected on diplomatic efforts, global support for Bangladesh's independence, and the challenges faced during post-war rehabilitation.

🔹 Veterans' Contributions & Honoring War Heroes – Lt. Gen. K.K. Nanda spoke about the sacrifices of Indian soldiers, stressing the importance of recognizing and supporting veterans.

🏅 Conclusion

The event served as a tribute to the Indian Armed Forces and their leadership during the 1971 war. It reinforced India's commitment to defending freedom and democracy and highlighted the continued importance of strong military and diplomatic relations with Bangladesh.