Shaurya Diwas Commemorates CRPF Bravery in 1965 Conflict
Why in the News ?
India observed Shaurya Diwas on April 9, honouring the valour and sacrifice of CRPF personnel during the 1965 India-Pakistan conflict at Sardar Post, Kutch. The day highlights India’s security forces’ bravery, border defence legacy, and military history.
Shaurya Diwas: Background and Commemoration
● Shaurya Diwas is observed annually on April 9 to honour CRPF bravery.
● Commemorates events of the 1965 India-Pakistan conflict in the Rann of Kutch (Gujarat).
● Celebrations held at Sardar Post, a historic border location.
● CRPF personnel and senior officials pay tribute through Guard of Honour.
● Ceremonial activities include band performances and homage to martyrs.
● Recognises the role of paramilitary forces in national security.
● Reinforces institutional memory and military traditions.
● Highlights sacrifices of forces in border defence operations.
● Serves as a reminder of India’s resilience against external aggression.
● Promotes national pride and respect for armed forces.
1965 Conflict at Sardar Post: Acts of Valour
● In April 1965, Pakistan launched Operation Desert Hawk to capture Indian territory.
● Around 3,500 Pakistani troops attacked Sardar and Tak Posts.
● A small contingent of CRPF personnel was deployed at these posts.
● Despite numerical disadvantage, CRPF forces resisted for nearly 15 hours.
● Demonstrated exceptional courage, discipline, and tactical resilience.
● Successfully repulsed the enemy attack, forcing retreat.
● Around 34 Pakistani soldiers were killed, and 4 captured alive.
● Seven CRPF personnel made the supreme sacrifice.
● The battle is considered a remarkable feat in military history.
● Established CRPF’s reputation as a formidable force in combat situations.
| CRPF, Internal Security and Key Facts: ● Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF): India’s largest paramilitary force under the Ministry of Home Affairs. ● Established in 1939 as Crown Representative’s Police; renamed CRPF in 1949. ● Role includes internal security, counter-insurgency, and border support. ● Played crucial roles in wars, elections, and anti-Naxal operations. ● Rann of Kutch: Strategically important marshy border region between India and Pakistan, similar to how coastal regulation zone frameworks protect sensitive border areas. ● 1965 India-Pakistan War: Began with skirmishes in Kutch, later expanded to full-scale war. ● Operation Desert Hawk: Pakistani attempt to gain territorial advantage in Kutch. ● Paramilitary Forces vs Armed Forces: Paramilitary assist in internal and border security, distinct from army, operating under frameworks similar to how environmental clearances govern project implementations. ● Gallantry Traditions: Recognised through medals like Ashoka Chakra, Shaurya Chakra. ● Importance of border posts: First line of defence in safeguarding territorial integrity and ensuring a pollution free environment for citizens. |