Vijay Diwas 2025: Why 16 December is Celebrated [UPSC Current Affairs]

Vijay Diwas is observed on 16 December to commemorate India’s decisive victory over Pakistan in the 1971 Indo-Pak War, which led to the liberation of Bangladesh and the surrender of 93,000 Pakistani soldiers, led by General A.A. Khan Niazi—the largest military surrender since World War II.

Why Cover this Topic for UPSC?

• Frequently linked to Prelims current affairs questions
• Helps in GS-I (History) and GS-III (Security issues)
• Relevant for India–Pakistan relations & neighbourhood studies
• Useful for essay and ethics answers on leadership & sacrifice

Vijay Diwas, observed every year on 16 December, marks one of the most decisive moments in India’s modern military history. The day commemorates India’s historic victory over Pakistan in the 1971 Indo-Pak War, which resulted in the creation of Bangladesh as an independent nation.

• On 16 December 1971, the Pakistani Army in East Pakistan formally surrendered to Indian forces in Dhaka.
• Around 93,000 Pakistani soldiers laid down arms, marking the largest military surrender since World War II.
• The victory brought an end to nine months of humanitarian crisis and refugee influx into India.
• It led to the birth of Bangladesh, reshaping South Asia’s geopolitical landscape.
• The war showcased India’s military leadership, strategic planning, and joint operations of the Army, Navy, and Air Force.

Besides 16th December, India observes Kargil Vijay Diwas (26 July) to commemorate the victory of the Kargil War. 

Must read: Vande Mataram: The National Song of India UPSC | Recent Debate in the Parliament

The 1971 Indo-Pak War has its roots in the political and humanitarian crisis in East Pakistan (present-day Bangladesh). After Pakistan’s creation in 1947, big political, economic, and cultural differences emerged between West Pakistan and East Pakistan.

• In the 1970 general elections, the Awami League, led by Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, won a clear majority. 
• However, power was not transferred, leading to widespread protests in East Pakistan. 
• In March 1971, the Pakistani military launched Operation Searchlight, resulting in large-scale violence and human rights violations.
• This crackdown forced millions of refugees to flee to India, creating a major humanitarian and economic burden. 
• India initially tried diplomatic efforts, but later intervened due to security concerns and regional instability.

The situation finally escalated into a full-scale war in December 1971, ending with Pakistan’s surrender on 16 December 1971 and the emergence of Bangladesh as an independent nation.

The 1971 Indo-Pak War was the result of multiple political, humanitarian, and strategic factors. The key causes include:

• Political Discrimination: Despite having a larger population, East Pakistan was denied political power by the ruling establishment in West Pakistan.
• Denial of Electoral Mandate: The refusal to transfer power to the Awami League after its victory in the 1970 elections triggered mass unrest.
• Military Crackdown (Operation Searchlight): The Pakistani Army’s violent action in March 1971 led to widespread civilian casualties.
• Refugee Crisis in India: Nearly 10 million refugees fled to India, creating economic and security pressures.
• Human Rights Violations: Reports of large-scale atrocities drew global attention and justified humanitarian intervention.
• India’s Security Concerns: Growing instability along India’s eastern border made conflict unavoidable.

The 1971 Indo-Pak War is a proud chapter in India’s military history. In just 13 days, India’s Armed Forces delivered a decisive victory. It was the result of well-coordinated action by the Army, Navy, and Air Force, showcasing effective joint warfare. 

Indian Army

• The army led the main ground offensive on the Eastern Front, advancing swiftly towards Dhaka.
• Effectively coordinated with the Mukti Bahini, weakening Pakistani positions from within.
• Executed rapid manoeuvre warfare, forcing the unconditional surrender of Pakistani forces on 16 December 1971.

Indian Navy

• The Indian Navy enforced a naval blockade of East Pakistan, cutting off supply and escape routes.
• Established complete sea dominance, limiting Pakistan’s ability to sustain the war.

Indian Air Force

• The air force achieved early air superiority over both Eastern and Western fronts.
• Provided close air support to the Army and disrupted enemy communication and logistics.
• Played a crucial role in isolating East Pakistan through targeted air strikes.

Key Military Operations of the 1971 War 

1. Operation Searchlight: Pakistani military crackdown in East Pakistan that triggered the crisis.
2. Operation Trident: Indian Navy’s missile attack on Karachi port, crippling Pakistan’s naval power.
3. Operation Python: Follow-up naval strike that destroyed fuel storage facilities at Karachi.
4. Eastern Command Offensive: Indian Army’s rapid advance leading to the fall of Dhaka.
5. Naval Blockade of East Pakistan: Prevented reinforcements and supplies from reaching Pakistani forces.

Also Read: Mission Sudarshan Chakra: India’s Indigenous Air Defence System

Our Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Vijay Diwas 2025, remembered the brave soldiers whose courage and sacrifice ensured India had a historic victory in 1971.

• President Droupadi Murmu pays homage to the fallen soldiers of the 1971 war, acknowledging their contribution to the nation.
• The Army, Navy, and Air Force organise commemorative events, wreath-laying ceremonies, and remembrance services.
• Ceremonies are held at war memorials and military establishments to remember the soldiers who made the supreme sacrifice.
• Vijay Diwas 2025 is observed through educational programs, media features, and social outreach, with a special emphasis on imparting lessons to the younger generation.

• East Pakistan (Present-day Bangladesh): Located to India’s east, surrounded by West Bengal, Assam, Tripura, and Meghalaya.
• Dhaka: Capital of East Pakistan and the site of Pakistan’s surrender on 16 December 1971.
• Chittagong Port: Key maritime supply hub for Pakistani forces in the east.
• Kolkata: Major logistics and command centre for India’s Eastern operations.
• Bay of Bengal: A strategic naval theatre where India ensured sea dominance.
• India–East Pakistan Border: Long and porous, enabling refugee movement and military operations.

Must read: India-Pakistan Relations UPSC Notes: History, Wars, Indus Water Treaty

Our honourable Prime Minister Narendra Modi shared a Sanskrit Subhashitam on Vijay Diwas 2025-

“न मर्षयन्ति चात्मानं
सम्भावयितुमात्मना।

अदर्शयित्वा शूरास्तु
कर्म कुर्वन्ति दुष्करम्।”

The Sanskrit Subhashitam reflects that true warriors do not find it appropriate to praise themselves, and without any display through words, continue to accomplish challenging deeds.

Jai Hind!