India’s Maritime Triumphs: 1971 war and Naval Valour on Navy Day

–An Article by Poojan Patel

The Indo-Pakistani War of 1971 stands as a pivotal moment in India’s maritime history, showcasing the Indian Navy’s strategic brilliance and unwavering commitment to safeguarding the nation’s interests. Celebrated on December 4th, Indian Navy Day commemorates the audacious attack carried out by the Indian Navy on Karachi harbor during Operation Trident, a decisive turning point in the war.

Operation Trident: A Bold Offensive

On the fateful night of December 3rd, 1971, Pakistan launched pre-emptive airstrikes against Indian airfields, marking the commencement of the Indo-Pakistani War. In a swift and decisive response, the Indian Navy undertook Operation Trident, a daring raid on Karachi harbor, the nerve center of Pakistan’s maritime operations.

Led by the missile boats INS Veer and INS Kiltan, a flotilla of Indian naval vessels penetrated the heavily defended Karachi harbor, striking Pakistani warships and fuel storage facilities. The operation, executed with meticulous planning and unwavering courage, dealt a crippling blow to Pakistan’s naval capabilities and effectively crippled its ability to sustain a prolonged war.

Operation Python: Sealing Pakistan’s Maritime Fate

Following the success of Operation Trident, the Indian Navy launched Operation Python, a second major offensive on the night of December 8th-9th. This operation targeted the port of Karachi once again, further disrupting Pakistan’s maritime logistics and supply lines.

The Indian Navy’s relentless offensive effectively neutralized Pakistan’s naval power, leaving it vulnerable to Indian forces on both the eastern and western fronts. This strategic dominance played a crucial role in the subsequent surrender of Pakistani forces in East Pakistan, leading to the birth of Bangladesh.

Indian Navy Day

Indian Navy Day serves as a powerful reminder of the Indian Navy’s unwavering dedication to safeguarding the nation’s maritime interests. The 1971 Indo-Pakistani War stands as a testament to the Navy’s strategic acumen, operational capabilities, and indomitable spirit.

The war not only showcased the Indian Navy’s ability to protect the nation’s coastline but also highlighted its role in supporting the Indian Army’s operations in East Pakistan. The Navy’s contributions were instrumental in securing victory and achieving the nation’s objectives.

Unseen and lesser talked about Operation Cactus-Lily
Major Pancholy, part of the formidable 9th Battalion of the Sikh Regiment, found himself at the forefront of Operation Cactus-Lilly. The objective was clear: capture strategic posts in the treacherous Lipa valley, beyond the Cease Fire Line (CFL). As the nation rejoiced the cessation of hostilities in December 1971, Major Pancholy and his men continued to wage a war that went unnoticed. Quoting Major Pancholy: “In the last effort to save our motherland, we indulged in hand-to-hand combat for every inch of the ground.”

The Unrelenting Enemy: May 3-4, 1972

As the rest of the nation celebrated victory, Major Pancholy and his men remained in the throes of war. In May 1972, Pakistan, capitalizing on the ceasefire, launched a fierce counterattack to recapture vital posts, including the strategic Three Pimples. The Indian government, seemingly oblivious, left the valiant 86 to fend for themselves. “Pakistan attacked us on May 3, 1972, in the wee hours in the morning. With 86 fearless men, I fought till May 4, 1972.” says Major Pancholi

Dacca’s Surrender: A Turning Point Beyond Borders

Amid the naval triumphs, the fall of Dacca marked a turning point beyond borders. As Major General Gandharv Nagra’s message urged Lieut. General Niazi surrendered, and the inevitability of defeat reverberated through the region. Minutes before the cease-fire demand’s expiration, Niazi bowed to the inevitable and informed the Indian command of his army’s unconditional surrender.

Then-Prime Minister Indira Gandhi’s declaration resonated globally, hailing Dacca as “the free capital of a free country” and recognizing it as a milestone in humanity’s quest for liberty. President Yahya Khan, who had declared the conflict a holy war, became the first political casualty. His resignation and the subsequent rise of Zulfikar Ali Bhutto signaled a political upheaval mirroring the military defeats.

The Indo-Pakistani War of 1971 left an indelible mark on the Indian Navy’s history and the geopolitical landscape. As we commemorate Indian Navy Day, we honor not only the maritime triumphs but also the interconnectedness of historical events. The audacity of naval operations and the inevitability of surrender in Dacca collectively form a legacy of valor and lessons learned—a testament to India’s maritime prowess and its enduring impact on the subcontinent’s history.