Mandi Deputy Commissioner's Thoughtful Gesture Highlights 54th Vijay Diwas Commemoration

A Meaningful Tribute at Vijay Diwas

Munish Sood
MANDI: A significant moment during the 54th Vijay Diwas celebrations at the Shaheed Smarak near Indira Market occurred when Mandi Deputy Commissioner Apoorv Devgan chose to sit in the second row. This act was a powerful statement emphasizing that Veer Naris should be prioritized over officials during such solemn occasions.

The event, commemorating the victory in the 1971 India-Pakistan war, was organized collaboratively by the district administration, the District Sainik Welfare Department, the District Ex-Servicemen League, and the Defence Women Welfare Association. Floral tributes were presented at the memorial by Veer Naris, ex-servicemen, senior defense officials, administrative staff, and local community members, followed by a two-minute silence to honor the fallen soldiers.

DC Advocates for Veer Naris' Recognition

In his address, the Deputy Commissioner emphasized that the families of martyrs deserve the utmost respect at commemorative events, as they have made the greatest sacrifices for the nation. By opting for a seat in the second row, Devgan aimed to convey that gratitude should take precedence over formal hierarchy.

He remarked that the peace, security, and development enjoyed by the nation today are a direct result of the sacrifices made by soldiers and their families. Devgan recalled that 21 soldiers from Mandi district lost their lives in the 1971 war, and their courage continues to inspire future generations. He expressed heartfelt gratitude on behalf of the district administration and local residents to the armed forces, ex-servicemen, and their families.

During the ceremony, the district administration recognized the Veer Naris of soldiers who sacrificed their lives in the 1971 conflict, honoring their resilience and lifelong contributions to the nation. The atmosphere was solemn as participants paid tribute to the martyrs at the Shaheed Smarak. Providing historical context, Lt Col Gopal Guleria (Retd), deputy director of the District Sainik Welfare Department, noted that December 16 marks 54 years since India’s decisive victory in the 1971 war.

He explained that the conflict, which took place from December 3 to December 16, concluded with a significant Indian victory that resulted in the liberation of East Pakistan and the establishment of Bangladesh. A total of 3,845 Indian soldiers were martyred in the war, including 190 from Himachal Pradesh and 21 from Mandi district.

Himachal's Military Heritage

Retired Capt Het Ram Sharma, senior vice-president of the District Ex-Servicemen League, emphasized Himachal Pradesh’s rich military legacy, noting that despite its small size, the state has produced four Param Vir Chakra awardees. He also highlighted that Subedar Kanshi Ram from Mandi district received the Mahavir Chakra for bravery during the 1962 war, which is a point of pride for the region.

The ceremony was attended by Mandi Mayor Virendra Bhatt, Mandi Sadar SDM Rupinder Kaur, Municipal Commissioner Rohit Rathore, State Sainik Welfare Department Director Brig Madansheel Sharma, senior Army officials, representatives from ex-servicemen organizations, and members of the Defence Women Welfare Association, led by president Asha Thakur and secretary Sarita Guleria.

The event concluded with a collective commitment to uphold the legacy of the 1971 war and to ensure ongoing respect, dignity, and institutional support for the families of martyrs and veterans.