KOHIMA: Commemorating the guts, grit and glory of India's gallant soldiers of 1971 war, the Indian Army's Red Shield Division, State administration and people of Imphal jointly celebrated Swarnim Vijay Varsh on Saturday at Imphal, Manipur.
The grand event to welcome the Victory Flame intrinsic to Swarnim Vijay Varsh was held at SAI premises in Imphal. The event kick-started with an enthralling exhibition football match between renowned football clubs TRAU and NEROCA. At half time the match witnessed high tempo and impactful series of events including arrival of Victory Flame duly escorted by military personnel and bikers of Royal Riders Manipur. The fusion cultural programme enmeshing the cultural heritage of India to showcase 'Unity in Diversity' was equally engrossing and captivating.
Complimentary video messages by Lt Gen Manoj Pandey, Eastern Army Commander and celebrities like Mary Kom, Anuskha Sharma, Bhaichung Bhutia, Mirabai Channu, Vijender Singh amongst others were screened, adding vigour and zeal to the event.
The event was graced by Chief Minister of Manipur, N Biren Singh as chief guest while IGAR (South), GOC Red Shield Division, DGP Manipur amongst host of other senior civil and military dignitaries were also present. Memories of the heroic victory were renewed in presence of Vincent Ekka, son of Param Vir Chakra awardee Lance Naik Albert Ekka, who made the supreme sacrifice during the 1971 war.
Reminiscing the valour in displayed in the war, the chief guest lauded the painstaking effort of Indian Army towards nation building and national integration.
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