PM Modi lights ‘Swarnim Vijay Mashaal’ on 50th anniversary of 1971 war win

Prime Minister Narendra Modi lit the 'Swarnim Vijay Mashaal' from the eternal flame of the National War Memorial on December 16, marking the beginning of the 50th anniversary year celebrations of India's victory over Pakistan in 1971. PM Modi was joined by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, the chief of defence staff and tri-service chiefs. Four victory mashaals (flaming torches) will be carried to various parts of India, including to the villages of Param Vir Chakra and Maha Vir Chakra awardees of the 1971 war. Various commemorative events will be conducted pan-India wherein war veterans will be felicitated. India celebrates December 16 as Vijay Diwas to commemorate its victory over Pakistan during the 1971 war that led to the creation of Bangladesh. Watch the full video for more.