KD Desk
Srinagar, 31 August 2020. The ‘Dagger’ Division today celebrated the 55th anniversary of the Hajipir Day (which is on 28 Aug but, could not be celebrated because of imposition of restrictions in view of the fresh spike in COVID-19 cases). It was 28 August at 1030h, fifty five years ago, that a bold maneuver of the Indian Army led to the capture of Hajipir Pass by the gallant troops. The pass offered strategic advantage to Pakistan which was using it as a launch pad for the infiltrators to create mayhem in the valley. The crushing defeat and the capture of the pass thus laid to rest their diabolical plans. Capture of Hajipir Pass is considered the most gallant action by Indian Armed Forces during the 1965 operations. Since then 28 August is celebrated as “Hajipir Day”. The Nation also recognized the gallant action and bestowed four Maha Veer Chakra, Nine Veer Chakra, Three Sena Medal Gallantry and Eleven Mention- in- Dispatche (Gallantry).
The day began with a somber wreath laying ceremony by the GOC Dagger Division, Maj Gen Virendera Vats at the imposing war memorial. It was followed by an impressive presentation by a local hostess and a short film-which brought out the valor of the Indian Army and the local populace, who provided unflinching support to the operation in terms of manpower and logistics. In his address, the GOC appreciated the strong bond between the Army and the locals ever since independence and assured of all possible support to mitigate their daily woes.
The highlight of the event was the first hand narration of war by civil veterans. Their zest, zeal ‘JOSH’ and National Pride was indeed awe inspiring. The program was followed by an informal interaction with all the attendees.
