Army’s priced victory symbol resuscitated

Vijay Diwas, marking 43 years of India’s victory over Pakistan, was observed on Tuesday

In 1971, the Indian Army executed one of the most decisive liberation campaigns in World Military History, wherein a nation of 75 million people was given independence. This swift blitzkrieg offensive brought honour and glory to the Indian Army and laid the foundation for the emergence of India as a dominant power in the region. In order to commemorate this great victory, December 16 every year is observed as Vijay Diwas.

BISON Division, which was raised in Secunderabad in October 1966, had launched a swift and spectacular offensive into the Shakargarh Sector (part of the then West Pakistan) and captured 988 square kilometres of Pakistan territory during the 14 days war in 1971.

In order to commemorate this great victory and as a token of esteemed appreciation for the citizens of the Hyderabad for their unstinted support since the raising of the division, Major General WAG Pinto, Param Vishisht Seva Medal, General Officer Commanding, BISON Division, presented a M-47 Patton tank. This tank was one of the 66 tanks knocked out by the division in the wake of its swift advance. It was installed at the Tank Bund.

However, over a period of time, this war trophy had become dilapidated. Major General RK Jagga, Vishisht Seva Medal, General Officer Commanding, BISON Division, took the initiative to resuscitate this memento which is a matter of pride for the Indian Army. A decision was taken to complete this task by the Vijay Diwas this year. The Army appealed to all the citizens of the twin cities to look after this iconic symbol of success of the Army and the nation.