During a speech at the 8th Armed Forces Veterans’ Day ceremony, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh highlighted the humane treatment given to the 90,000 Pakistan Prisoners of War (POWs) during the 1971 war between India and Pakistan. Singh emphasized India's adherence to a humanitarian attitude and full respect for the Pakistani POWs, stating that despite the freedom to treat them in any way, Indian forces chose to uphold cultural and traditional values.
The 1971 war resulted in the surrender of the Pakistan Army to the Indian Army in Dhaka. Over 90,000 Pakistani soldiers were held captive in India and were later released following the Simla Accord between then-Prime Minister Indira Gandhi and Pakistani Prime Minister Zulfikar Ali Bhutto.
Singh described the treatment of the enemy soldiers as a "golden chapter of humanity" and commended the soldiers for rising above familial, caste, and creed differences to prioritize the nation's security. He highlighted the moral strength derived from ensuring the nation's safety and referred to the soldiers who fought in the First and Second World Wars, noting that they are remembered with respect globally.
The Defence Minister assured ongoing efforts by the government to ensure the well-being of veterans, including the implementation of the One Rank One Pension scheme for healthcare and re-employment. Singh laid a wreath at the War Memorial, paying homage to the sacrifice and dedicated service of the armed forces.
Armed Forces Veterans’ Day is observed on January 14 each year to recognize the service of Field Marshal KM Cariappa, the First Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, who retired on this day in 1953. The day acknowledges the contributions of ex-servicemen through various events and ceremonies.
(With Agency Inputs)
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