Srinagar, June 20: The ‘Swarnim Vijay Varsh Victory Mashaal’, the symbol of India’s 1971 War victory reached JAKLI Regimental Centre and it was given a grand reception by Deputy Commandant, JAKLI Regimental Centre to commemorate 50 Year of India’s victory.
A statement of the Army issued here said that the event started with a ‘guard of honour’ to the victory flame followed by victory flame march around the entire regimental centre by war veterans in an open vehicle along with tunes played by the military band.
It said that Commandant JAKLI Regimental Centre highlighted the role of JAKLI Regiment in the 1971 War.
The statement said, “JAKLI battalions played an important role in the victory of Indian Army over Pakistan Army leading to the creation of Bangladesh. These battalions of the erstwhile J&K Militia Regiment were honoured with three battle honours for their exceptional bravery. The 8 J&K Militia was awarded with Battle Honour Laleali and Picket 707, the 9 J&K Militia was awarded with Battle Honour Shingo River Valley and 11 J&K Militia was awarded with Battle Honour Gutrian. In the war, soldiers and officers of J&K Militia Regiment received seven Vir Chakra, 10 Sena Medal, two Vishisht Seva Medals and nine Mention-In-Despatches, a total of 28 Gallantry Awards.”
The Army statement said that in recognition of the great valour and supreme sacrifices of 1971 war, the J&K Miitia Regiment was amalgamated into regular Indian Army in the year 1972 and the J&K Militia Regiment was rechristened to JAKLI Regiment in the year 1976.
It said that on the occasion, the commandant exhorted the present generation of soldiers to emulate the highest standards of professional excellence set by these veterans.