SWARNIM VIJAY VARSH CELEBRATIONS AT MANASBAL

The Swarnim Vijay Varsh Victory Flame after having entered the serene Kashmir Valley on 15 June 2021, continued its journey and made its way to Ganderbal & Bandipora districts on 22 & 23 June 2021.

The Victory flame was handed over to Commanding Officer of Manasbal Rashtriya Rifles Battalion by the Commanding Officer of Rashtriya Rifles Battalion at Naninara.

The flame was received with tremendous fervour by school children, local youth, Veer Naris, Ex-servicemen, personnel from Security Forces & Law Enforcement Agencies and many other civilian dignitaries from the local administration.

Thereafter, the Victory Flame was escorted inside Manasbal Military Garrison, proudly carried by military personnel & civilians from nearby villages & handed over to the Commander, Manasbal Sector Rashtriya Rifles on 22 June 2021. A march past was also organised by a heterogeneous contingent comprising of NCC scouts, local youth, personnel from Security Forces, Ex- Servicemen, school kids, teachers etc.

Later, the victory flame was escorted to the stand for its Night halt.

Next Morning began with a Freedom Run to commemorate the victory which witnessed over 200 participants to include locals, children & personnel from Security Forces. The run began from Jharokha Bhag & concluded at Manasbal Garrison with the Mashal Bearer leading the run. It was an overwhelming sight to witness a fresh wave of Nationalism & Patriotism among the locals.

Subsequently, the victory flame was escorted through Bandipora town to Sonarwani ‘A’ Garrison & was recieved & the wreath was laid with full honours & great ardour by Commanding Officer, Sonarwani Rashtriya Rifles Battalion, civil & Police dignitaries, local school teachers, students, NCC contingent, scouts, Ex Servicemen & eminent persons in the area followed by a talk on Swarnim Vijay Varsh.

Thereafter, Wreaths were laid to pay homage to the unsung War Heroes of the 1971 War, by the visiting dignitaries, including Ex-servicemen, Commandant CRPF, Police/ Civ dignitaries & Commander, Manasbal Sector Rashtriya Rifles followed by a ceremonial Guard of Honour & salutation.

The celebrations further continued with the screening of a short documentary on 1971 War followed by the cultural program organised by local artists to include dance & music performances.

Post the event, the local talents including winners of the Painting competition were felicitated by the dignitaries present.

At the end, High tea & interaction with the gathering was carried out before the Victory flame was handed over to 2 Rastriya Rifles Battalion on 23 June 21.