Vijay Diwas 2025: Turkish‑Made YIHA Drone On Display, Bangladesh Delegation Joins Commemorations

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Today in history, On 16 December 1971, the course of South Asian history changed. After a short but intense 13‑day war between India and Pakistan that began on 3 December, Pakistani forces in the eastern theatre formally surrendered to the combined forces of the Indian Army and Bangladesh's Mukti Bahini in Dhaka (now Bangladesh).

Photo Credit: Freepik/AI-generated

About 93,000 Pakistani troops laid down their arms, marking one of the largest military surrenders since World War II and leading directly to the creation of the independent nation of Bangladesh. In India, this day is observed every year as Vijay Diwas, a day to remember the bravery, strategic success, and sacrifices of the Indian armed forces in achieving this swift and decisive victory.

Indian Army And Military Commemorations Today

Military Displays and Exhibits

To mark Vijay Diwas 2025, the Indian Army has put on display a Turkish‑made YIHA drone, which was used by Pakistan and downed by Indian forces. The exhibit serves as a reminder of the strategic challenges faced during conflicts and the vigilance of India's armed forces.

Kolkata Events

In Kolkata, the Eastern Command of the Indian Army is celebrating the 54th Vijay Diwas with ceremonial and cultural Military Tattoo events. These public displays showcase military heritage, discipline, and the skill of armed forces personnel, while paying tribute to the victory of 1971.

Bangladesh Delegation Participation

Adding an international dimension to the commemorations, a 20‑member delegation from Bangladesh, including serving army officers such as Brig Gen Md Lutfor Rahman and several Mukti Yoddhas (freedom fighters), has been attending events in eastern India from 15 to 16 December.

They have taken part in the Military Tattoo and are expected to join wreath‑laying and other memorial ceremonies in Kolkata today, reinforcing the shared history and enduring ties between India and Bangladesh.

On arrival, the delegation was formally welcomed by Indian Army officials, and their presence highlights the mutual respect and camaraderie forged in the Liberation War of 1971.

International And Shared Remembrance

Victory Day in Bangladesh is also on 16 December that traditionally features official parades, gun salutes, and national tributes to freedom fighters. This parallel celebration underscores the shared significance of the 1971 war in both countries and the enduring respect for those who fought for Bangladesh's independence.

Broader Commemoration Activities

Vijay Rally 2025 - "Ride for Valour"

A few days before Vijay Diwas, a symbolic motorcycle rally organized by the Indian Army and civil riders traversed key locations, laying wreaths at war memorials along the way. This rally marked the formal start of the Vijay Diwas celebrations from 14-16 December.

State And Local Programmes

Across India, schools, veteran organizations, and local civil bodies are conducting educational talks, storytelling sessions by war veterans, and wreath‑laying ceremonies. These initiatives ensure that younger generations understand the historical significance and human stories behind the victory.

What The Commemorations Represent

Today's Vijay Diwas events serve multiple purposes:

• Tribute to veterans and martyrs: Remembering the courage of soldiers whose actions led to India's victory and the birth of Bangladesh.
• Shared history with Bangladesh: Reflecting on a pivotal moment in South Asian history that continues to shape diplomatic and cultural ties between the two countries.

These observances are not only ceremonial; they are a way for the nation to connect with its history, acknowledge sacrifice, and instil a sense of pride in the armed forces.

Photo Credit: Freepik/AI-generated

Vijay Diwas 2025 is being commemorated with a blend of solemn tributes, cultural displays, and collaborative remembrance activities. From the Indian Army's exhibits and Kolkata military tattoo to Bangladesh delegation participation and local educational programs, the day ensures that the legacy of the 1971 victory is remembered, honoured, and passed on to future generations. It showcases courage, cooperation, and the enduring importance of history in shaping national identity.