SWARNIM VIJAY VARSH
Technical Data
| Date of Issue | December 16, 2021 |
|---|---|
| Denomination | Rs. 5 |
| Quantity | 302,400 |
| Perforation | 13¾ x 13¼ |
| Printer | Security Printing Press, Hyderabad |
| Printing Process | Wet Offset |
| Watermark | No Watermark |
| Colors | Multicolor |
| Credit (Designed By) | Ms. Nenu Gupta |
| Catalog Codes |
Michel IN 3751 Stamp Number IN 3263 Yvert et Tellier IN 3430 Stanley Gibbons IN 3793 |
| Themes | Anniversaries and Jubilees |
Swarnim Vijay Varsh – 50 Years of the 1971 Victory
The year 2021 marked the 50th Anniversary of India’s historic victory in the 1971 Indo-Pak War, a defining moment in the history of the Indian subcontinent. To honour this glorious milestone, the period from December 2020 to December 2021 was observed as Swarnim Vijay Varsh by the Indian Armed Forces.
A Historic Triumph
On 16 December 1971, the world witnessed the dramatic conclusion of the war with the surrender of Pakistani forces in East Pakistan. Lieutenant General A.A.K. Niazi, Commander of the Pakistani Eastern Command, surrendered to Lieutenant General J.S. Arora, GOC-in-C, Eastern Command of the Indian Army, in the presence of Vice Admiral N. Krishnan, FOC-in-C, Eastern Naval Command, and Air Marshal H.C. Dewan, AOC-in-C, Eastern Air Command.
This surrender marked not only the liberation of Bangladesh but also the largest military surrender since World War II, with 93,000 Pakistani soldiers laying down arms before the Indian Armed Forces.
The Lightning Campaign
The 1971 War commenced with pre-emptive strikes by Pakistan on Indian Air Force bases. In a swift and coordinated response, the Indian Armed Forces launched simultaneous operations on land, sea, and air.
- The Indian Army advanced with decisive offensives leading to the capture of Dhaka.
- The Indian Navy executed bold operations, blockading enemy supply routes.
- The Indian Air Force dominated the skies, crippling enemy air power.
The jointmanship of the three services was the hallmark of the campaign, ensuring a swift and decisive victory in just 13 days—a campaign remembered for its planning, precision, valour, and leadership.
A Symbol of Pride
The Commemorative Postage Stamp on Swarnim Vijay: 1971–2021 captures the essence of this victory. At its centre is the Swarnim Vijay Varsh logo, designed by Lt Cdr Kushal Chandrashekhar of the Indian Navy, selected through a nationwide competition in 2020. The stamp honours the esprit-de-corps of the Indian Armed Forces, their camaraderie with the Indo-Bangladesh Forces, and the eternal bond of friendship between India and Bangladesh.
A Tribute Through Philately
With this release, the Department of Posts pays homage to the courage, sacrifice, and professionalism of the Soldiers, Sailors, and Airmen who made this victory possible. The Swarnim Vijay Varsh Stamp stands as a proud reminder of India’s triumph, the liberation of Bangladesh, and the spirit of freedom and resilience that continues to inspire generations.
First Day Cover
