Vijay Diwas is celebrated every year on December 16th to commemorate India's decisive military victory over Pakistan in the 1971 Indo-Pak War, which led to the liberation of Bangladesh (then East Pakistan).
Historical and Political Context
- Background (Genesis of the War): The war was rooted in the oppressive political, economic, and cultural dominance of West Pakistan over East Pakistan, leading to the Bangladesh Liberation Movement and the rise of the Mukti Bahini.
- Indian Intervention: India intervened primarily to support the Bengali movement and manage the massive influx of refugees into its eastern states.
- The War (December 3–16, 1971): A 13-day conflict that involved coordinated actions by the Indian Army, Navy (Operation Trident and Operation Python), and Air Force.
- The Surrender: On December 16, 1971, the Chief of the Pakistani forces in East Pakistan, Lt. Gen. A.A.K. Niazi, signed the Instrument of Surrender in Dhaka, leading to the surrender of over 93,000 Pakistani soldiers—the largest military surrender since World War II
Strategic and Geopolitical Impact
- Birth of Bangladesh: Confirmed India's support for the new nation of Bangladesh.
- Shift in South Asian Balance of Power: The victory established India as the dominant power in the South Asian region and boosted the morale of its armed forces after the 1962 Sino-Indian War.
- Pakistan's Humiliation: Resulted in the dismemberment of Pakistan and a significant loss of manpower and assets.
- Tribute: The day is a tribute to the valor, bravery, and sacrifice of the Indian Armed Forces personnel. (Note: India also observes Kargil Vijay Diwas on July 26 to commemorate the 1999 Kargil War victory).
- Historical Event: A pivotal moment in post-independence Indian history, fundamental to understanding India-Pakistan and India-Bangladesh relations.
- Military Strategy: The war is studied for its rapid, multi-front, and highly effective military execution.
IAS-2026 - OPTIONAL / GEOGRAPHY / PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION / SOCIOLOGY / ANTHROPOLOGY / ORIENTATION ON 03 & 04-10-2025 
