India recalls role of its armed forces
India yesterday celebrated Vijay Divas, recalling the memories of India's armed forces personnel who assisted in Bangladesh's Liberation War.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi said, "On Vijay Divas, we remember sacrifices and valour of our Armed Forces who fought courageously in 1971. We are extremely proud of them."
Lt Gen (retd) JFR Jacob, who played a prominent role in the war, presented his books "An Odyssey in War & Peace" and "Surrender at Dacca" to Modi.
"On this historic day, glad to have met Lt. General (Retd.) JFR Jacob, known for his impeccable service to the Army," the PM tweeted.
In Kolkata, Bangladesh Mukti Joddhas and Indian war veterans and serving officers of the Armed Forces came together to commemorate the day.
Bangladesh Social Welfare Minister Syed Mohsin Ali and some retired and serving army officers also placed wreaths at Eastern Command's Vijay Smarak (war memorial) in Kolkata. A 70-member Bangladeshi team is in Kolkata to mark the occasion.
In Agartala, capital of Tripura state, Chief Minister Manik Sarkar inaugurated a new war memorial.
The Border Security Force and Border Guards Bangladesh exchanged sweets near border outposts along the 856km stretch of border with Bangladesh, BSF officials said.
Vijay Divas was also observed in Aizawl, capital of India's Mizoram state, with dignitaries laying wreaths at the war memorial.
Chief Minister Lal Thanhawla and state legislative Assembly Speaker Hiphei were among those who paid tributes to the fallen heroes.
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