Image Courtesy: Ministry of Defence
In commemoration of the historic military victory over Pakistan in the 1971 War, HQ Southern Command is organizing a ‘Southern Star Vijay Run-22’ on 16 December 2022 i.e. Vijay Diwas simultaneously at Pune and fifteen other cities across Southern Command Area of Responsibility. Based on the theme “Run for Soldier – Run with Soldier”, this mega event is aimed at strengthening the bond between the Indian Army and the masses, especially the Youth. While paying homage to our martyrs, the participants in ‘VIJAY RUN 22’ would also be highlighting the caliber, potential and energy of our Nation.
To commemorate this glorious occasion being conducted to pay homage to our gallant soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice in Service of the Nation, an invite is being extended to all sections of society to join in the celebrations which is being organized simultaneously in major venues to include Pune, Secunderabad, Chennai, Bengaluru, Jodhpur, Jaisalmer and other major cities. A wreath-laying ceremony will be organized to pay homage to the martyrs on this solemn occasion and thereafter the ‘Vijay Run’ will be flagged off in all prominent locations simultaneously.
‘Vijay Run-22’ will be flagged off at Pune on 16 December 2022 by Lt Gen AK Singh, AVSM, YSM, SM, VSM, GOC-in-C, Southern Command immediately after the Wreath Laying ceremony at Southern Command War Memorial at 7 AM. Indian Army solicits participation from everyone including school & college students, NCC Cadets and people from all walks of life to join this Vijay Run 2022 and be part of the celebrations on Vijay Diwas.
The ‘Vijay Run-22’ will comprise of three categories; 12.5 Km run which is open for all with separate categories for men and women, 5 Km run for students of schools and a 4 km run exclusively for women. The overall prize money for above run will be Rs 50,000/-for 12.5 Km run and Rs 22,000/- for runs of school students and women respectively.
Link for free Online Registrations for Pune is open at www.runbuddies.club and the registrations will close on 10 Dec 22. The wholehearted and enthusiastic participation from citizens from all walks of life of Pune in the Southern Star Vijay Run-22 will be an apt forum to demonstrate the patriotic fervour and commitment to Nation Building.
About Vijay Diwas
Vijay Diwas is celebrated every year on 16 December. On this day, the Indian Armed Forces, including veterans, citizens, and students, pay tribute to and remember the sacrifices of their soldiers. Vijay Diwas celebrates India’s historic military victory against Pakistan in the 1971 war, which also liberated Bangladesh from Pakistan. It commemorates the victory of Bangladesh and Indian forces over Pakistan in the Bangladesh Liberation War in 1971. It Bangladesh, the day is observed as Bangladesh Victory Day.
Manekshaw, popularly known as ‘Sam Bahadur’, was the Chief of the Army Staff of the Indian Army during the Indo-Pakistani War of 1971. The message given by Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw to Pakistan on 13th December 1971 was ‘You surrender, or We wipe you out’. The message was dire, the fight was severe, and as a result, surrender was certain.