11 OFFICERS, 10 JCOS AND 185 SOLDIERS DIED WHILE 19 OFFICERS, 11 JCOS AND 334 SOLDIERS WERE WOUNDED DURING THE BATTLE OF BERIWALA

FAZILKA: The Amogh Division of the Army held a ceremony here on Wednesday to remember the heroism and valour of the brave soldiers, who laid down their lives fighting for the motherland during the 1971 IndoPakistan war.

The ‘Saviours of Fazilka’ fought the battle of Beriwala, which raged on uninterrupted for 14 days from December 3, 1971 onwards. It was undoubtedly one of the fiercest actions of the 1971 Indo-Pak war.

In this epic battle, 11 officers, 10 junior commissioned officers (JCOs) and 185 soldiers embraced martyrdom while 19 officers, 11 JCOs and 334 soldiers were wounded on the battlefield. For displaying conspicuous gallantry, one Mahavir Chakra, six vir chakras and four mention-indispatches were awarded.

The ceremony witnessed active participation by the general public. The civil administration came forward to assist the Army in organising and actively participating in the event.

Rich tributes were paid to the martyrs by laying wreaths at the Fazilka war memorial. A ‘marathon’ was organised wherein people participated with a lot of enthusiasm despite the chilly weather.

Prizes were given in various categories to the participants of the marathon.

The children of Fazilka presented a mesmerising cultural programme which filled everyone’s heart with patriotism.

Events such as painting, debate and various other activities were organised in schools across Fazilka on the eve of Vijay Diwas and the winners were felicitated.

General officer commanding (GOC) of the division Major General Bipin Bakshi exhorted all ranks of the division to rededicate themselves to the service of the nation and emulate the devotion of war veterans and martyrs.

The event was also graced by Santosh Rana, wife of late major KS Rana of 15 Rajput, who attained martyrdom during the operations in Fazilka and many war heroes and veer naris (war widows).