Lessons from the 1971 India-Pakistan War Unveiled in New Book

Former army chief Gen V N Sharma emphasized that the 1971 India-Pakistan War was a 'total affair' involving military, politics, and diplomacy. Speaking at the book launch of '1971 Strategy Campaign Valor,' he praised Prime Minister Indira Gandhi's leadership. The book highlights key battles and heroes of the war that led to Bangladesh's birth.

During a recent event, Gen V N Sharma, a former army chief, highlighted that the 1971 India-Pakistan War was an all-encompassing affair, extending beyond mere military conflict to include politics and diplomacy. He made these remarks at the India International Centre during the launch of '1971 Strategy Campaign Valor,' a book penned by a young author celebrating the heroes and pivotal battles of the war.

The event saw notable attendees, including IAF Chief Air Chief Marshal V R Chaudhari and former Delhi Lt Governor Anil Baijal. Gen Sharma praised Prime Minister Indira Gandhi's adept leadership during the war, which precipitated the birth of a new nation, Bangladesh. He pointed out that the war effort required the unified contribution of various sectors, including civil services, police, and transport.

Indian armed forces, in collaboration with the Mukti Bahini, fought decisively, leading to the Pakistani forces' surrender in December 1971. The event also included accounts from veterans and reflections on the role of air and naval power in the conflict. The book, starting with the chapter 'A bloodbath in Dacca,' aims to reignite interest in the younger generation about the 1971 war.

(With inputs from agencies.)