PM lights ‘Swarnim Vijay Mashaal’ to kick off 50th anniversary celebrations of 1971 Indo-Pak war

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday lit the 'Swarnim Vijay Mashaal' from the eternal flame of the National War Memorial in New Delhi, marking the beginning of the 50th anniversary year celebrations of India's victory over Pakistan in 1971. (AP)

Indian Air Force's Sukhoi Su-30MKI fly past to mark the 50th anniversary of Vijay Diwas in Kolkata. (PTI)

India celebrates December 16 as Vijay Diwas to commemorate its victory over Pakistan during the 1971 war that led to the creation of Bangladesh. (PTI)

Four victory mashaals (flaming torches) will be carried to various parts of India, including to the villages of Param Vir Chakra and Maha Vir Chakra awardees of the 1971 war, the defence ministry has said. (PTI)

Eastern Army Commander Lt General Anil Chauhan during a press conference at Fort William during the 50th anniversary celebration of Vijay Diwas in Kolkata. He also met Mukti Joddha and their  family members from Bangladesh. (Express photo by Partha Paul)   

As December 16 marks the anniversary of the military victory, the nation will celebrate 'Swarnim Vijay Varsh' (golden victory year) through several events across the country, and it will continue for a year.(Express photo by Partha Paul)   

Various commemorative events will be conducted pan-India wherein war veterans will be felicitated, the statement said, adding that band displays, seminars, exhibitions, equipment displays, film festivals, conclaves and adventure activities will also be held.(Express photo by Partha Paul)