Six unsung heroes of India's 1971 victory over Pakistan, including Lt Gen Sagat Singh and GC Chandan Singh

Every year on December 16, India commemorates its victory over Pakistan in 1971 by celebrating Vijay Diwas. Because it resulted in the creation of Bangladesh, India's victory over Pakistan is regarded as a significant turning point in world history, especially that of the Indian subcontinent.

India's victory in 1971 is largely attributed to Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw, the Chief of Army Staff at the time. But there were numerous others who contributed just as much to India's triumph over Pakistan.

IV Corps was led by Lieutenant General Sagat Singh in the 1971 conflict. During the Battle of Sylhet, which took place between December 7 and 15, he is credited with organizing India's first heliborne operation. He received the esteemed Padma Bhushan in recognition of his leadership abilities during the conflict.

During the 1971 war, Group Captain Chandan Singh of the Indian Air Force (IAF) commanded Air Force Station Jorhat. Singh is credited with organizing India's helicopter operations in Sylhet and Dacca. Singh went on to become Air Vice Marshal. He made sure the mission was carried out successfully by the Indian military. He received the Maha Vir Chakra in recognition of this.

Colonel Hoshiar Singh Dahiya, a major at the time, fought the Pakistani forces in the Battle of Basantar in 1971 and demonstrated extraordinary bravery and leadership abilities. Despite strong opposition, he led the troops from the front and took a well-defended enemy position. He received the Param Vir Chakra in recognition of this.

An officer in the Parachute Regiment was Major General Kulwant Singh Pannu. He received the Maha Vir Chakra for leading his troops to capture the Poongli Bridge over the Jamuna River in Bangladesh during the 1971 war. According to his citation, "Lieutenant Colonel Pannu displayed conspicuous gallantry, exemplary leadership, determination and devotion to duty in keeping with the best traditions of the Army."

An officer in the Indian Navy was Captain Mohan Narayan Rao Samant. He participated in clandestine operations under Operation X to train Bengali students to fight the Pakistan Army during the 1971 war. Additionally, he took part in Operation Jackpot, which provided a ton of logistical support. The Maha Vir Chakra was given to him.

The aircraft carrier INS Vikrant was commanded by Vice Admiral N Krishnan. The Pakistani forces received a severe shock when INS Vikrant, under his command, attacked the harbors of Chittagong and Cox's Bazar. For his leadership abilities during the conflict, he received the Padma Bhushan.