Chief Minister Harish Rawat pays tribute to war heroes on the occasion of Vijay Diwas at Gandhi Park on Friday. Photo: Abhyudaya Kotnala

Tribune News Service

Dehradun, December 16

Chief Minister Harish Rawat said soldiers had proved their worth in the 1971 war with Pakistan.He said people could not forget the sacrifice made by the soldiers of the Indian Defence forces. He paid tribute to martyrs at a function to commemorate Vijay Diwas held here today.He said the role played by soldiers during the 1971 war was commendable.The Chief Minister said it was a matter of pride for everyone that a large number of youths from Uttarakhand were serving in the defence forces. The state government would take all steps to address the grievances of next of kin of the martyrs.Rawat urged youths to come forward in a large number to join the Indian defence forces. He said brave soldiers from the state had laid down their lives in wars fought since India got Independence.Forest Minister Dinesh Agarwal, MLAs Rajkumar and Ganesh Joshi were present.In another function, Brig Paritosh Pant, Deputy General Officer Commanding, Golden Key division, laid a wreath on behalf of all ranks of the division in a wreath-laying function held at Prernasthal, Clement Town.The gathering was told that Vijay Diwas is celebrated on December 16 every year to celebrate the glorious victory of the Indian Army over Pakistan in 1971. India emerged victorious after 14 days of the war with Pakistan that also led to the creation of Bangladesh.Golden Key Division celebrated Vijay Diwas by honouring the brave and courageous men who had sacrificed their lives fighting for the country.