On December 16, 1971, Pakistan forces surrendered to the Indian Army and Mukti Bahini (Bangladeshi freedom fighters)
Vijay Diwas is a symbol of India’s bravery, dedication and military prowess. On December 16, 1971, Pakistan’s forces surrendered to the Indian Army and Mukti Bahini (Bangladeshi freedom fighters) and the world saw the birth of a new nation named Bangladesh. This victory was not just a geopolitical success, but also a victory for human values, freedom and justice. In this historic war, Indian forces showed amazing strategy with modern weapons and thousands of Indian soldiers made supreme sacrifice.
Come, on the occasion of the 54th anniversary of this Victory Day, let us know which major weapons were used in the 1971 Indo-Pak war? How many Indian soldiers were martyred in this war and what was the nature of the sacrifice?
Why did the war of 1971 happen?
The war of 1971 mainly arose out of the political, social and humanitarian crisis in East Pakistan (today’s Bangladesh). The atrocities on the Bengali people by the Pakistan Army, the huge number of deported refugees and the violation of human rights became a serious challenge for India from both security and humanitarian points of view.
On 3 December 1971, Pakistan launched a surprise air attack on Indian air bases on the Western Front, following which India formally entered the war. Within just 1314 days the Indian Army achieved a decisive victory.
Major weapons used in this war
Tank: The Army used T-55 and T-54 tanks in this war. These tanks of Soviet origin were the backbone of the Indian Armored Corps. Their fire-power and security played an important role on the western front, especially in the Rajasthan and Punjab sectors. The British-origin Centurion tanks performed exceptionally well, especially in Shakargarh and the western sector, and proved decisive against Pakistani tanks. The AMX-13 light tanks were used in difficult terrain, especially where heavy tanks were difficult to access.
T-55 tank was used in the India-Pakistan war.
Artillery: The 25-pounder field gun was the main backbone of Indian artillery, used to engage enemy positions, bunkers and supply lines. The 105 mm and 130 mm field guns weakened the enemy defense in the very first phase. Mortars (81 mm, 120 mm) were extremely effective weapons for troops advancing with infantry, allowing them to penetrate small fortified positions.
Infantry Weapons: The 7.62 mm SLR (Self Loading Rifle) was the standard rifle of the Indian Army at that time. Along with this, .303 Lee-Enfield rifles were also in use at some places. Light Machine Gun (LMG) and Medium Machine Gun (MMG) were used to provide cover fire to advancing troops and to suppress enemy firing positions. Hand grenades and rocket launchers had an important role in attacking enemy fortified positions.
During that period of war, 7.62 mm SLR was being used the most in the Indian Army.
Major aircraft and weapons of the Air Force
In the 1971 war, the Indian Air Force (IAF) decisively turned the ongoing ground battle in its favor by establishing air superiority.
Fighter and fighter-bomber aircraft: The MiG-21 supersonic jet was the main modern weapon of the Indian Air Force. In dogfight and interception missions, MiG-21 gave a strong reply to Pakistani aircraft. Sukhoi-7 (Su-7) was used for ground attack and close air support. It targeted enemy airfields, radar stations, bridges and supply depots. Hunter jets were used in bombing and support missions. His role was especially notable on the western front. Small in size but extremely agile Gnat jet continued to compete with Pakistan’s F-86 Saber in many air combats.
MiG-21
Transport and helicopter: AN-12 and DC-3 (Dakota) were used to supply troops, equipment and supplies. MI-4 and other helicopters were used for evacuation of casualties, deployment of special forces and supplies in difficult areas.
Air Force Weapons: Unguided rocket pods, bombs and machine guns were used to destroy enemy runways, bridges, ammunition depots and tank columns. Air-to-air missiles were also used.
Naval ships and special operations
In the 1971 war, the Indian Navy also performed unexpected and extremely courageous actions. INS Vikrant was deployed on the Eastern Front. The planes flying from this aircraft carrier attacked Chittagong, Cox’s Bazar and other ports and broke the Pakistani supply line.
Osa class missile boats attacked Pakistan’s Karachi port during Operation Trident and Operation Python, destroying several ships and causing a massive fire in an oil depot. Destroyer and frigate warships provided maritime blockade, escort duty, and artillery attacks on coastal targets. Indian submarines kept a constant watch on enemy shipping activities and played an important role in preparing for a sea attack if needed.
Pakistan surrendered to India.
How many Indian soldiers were martyred?
In the 1971 war, the Indian Armed Forces achieved a wonderful victory, but its cost was also very high. According to different official and historical sources, more than 3,800 Indian soldiers were martyred. Thousands of soldiers were injured and some soldiers also remained missing. These figures are not just numbers. Behind every number is a family, a dream and a life story dedicated to protecting the nation.
Many soldiers displayed extraordinary courage during the war, many of whom were posthumously awarded the highest military decorations. The courage of hundreds of soldiers and officers was posthumously honored with decorations like Param Vir Chakra, Mahavir Chakra and Vir Chakra.
Vijay Diwas is not just a date in the calendar of 1971, but a bright memory in Indian history, which will always inspire the coming generations. In this war, Indian forces, with limited resources but high morale, effective use of modern weapons and wise strategy, showed the world that India can not only protect its borders, but can also stand firm against injustice and oppression. Tanks, cannons, fighter jets, missile boats and infantry weapons, all together became the means of this victory, but the real foundation of this victory is the blood of those martyred soldiers who sacrificed their lives to protect the nation.
Our biggest duty on Vijay Diwas is to salute those heroes, adopt their ideals in our lives and take a pledge that we will make the India for which they sacrificed their lives stronger, more united and more humane.
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