6th September is celebrated as Defence Day in Pakistan and is a significant national event celebrated for years. It commemorates the impressive repulsion against a sudden attack by India in 1965. This day celebrates the courage and sacrifice of the Pakistani armed forces, who, against all odds, defended their motherland against an aggressive offensive.

The Defence Day of Pakistan carries particular importance because it reminds the nation of September 6, 1965, a day when Indian Forces launched an all-rounded attack against the Pakistani positions, targeting places such as Lahore, Sialkot, and essentially the entire Sindh. Being in majority, the Indian military was confronted with a high degree of resistance by the Pakistani military. The encounter was the moment of reckoning for the nation which portrayed the conglomeration of unity and resoluteness of Pakistan to its motherland.

Defence Day in Pakistan: A Memorable Occassion to Pay Tribute to Martyrs

One of the most striking features of Defence Day is paying tribute to the martyrs and heroes who worked in the 1965 war between India and Pakistan. Amongst them, the Pakistan Army 16 Punjab Regiment was very valiant in the battle for Lahore. This regiment faced a total of two companies, fought off 36 enemy companies for 12 continuous days, and took responsibilities of vital points like the BRB Canal. It proved to be an act of extreme gallantry, as 106 soldiers gave their lives—an unprecedented loss in the annals of the Pakistani Army.

The Pakistan Navy was also instrumental during the 1965 war. On the night of September 8, the Pakistani naval forces launched Operation Dwarka, aimed at the Indian radar stations and other installations at Dwarka in Gujarat. This daring operation, named Operation Somnath, involved six frigates and the submarine PNS Ghazi. The operation aimed to neutralize India’s radar capabilities and thus disrupt their naval operations. The success of this mission was a testimonial to the strategic prowess and bravery of the Pakistani Navy.

Of late, Defence Day also marks the type of constant test the armed forces of Pakistan have been facing. Pakistan has been actively involved in the GWOT since the year 2001, when the attacks occurred on September 11. The military has conducted hundreds of operations against insurgency and terror. Among these, well-known operations include Al-Mizan, Rah-e-Haq, Sher-e-Dil, Zarb-e-Azb, and Radd-ul-Fasaad. It is with these that the militant threat has been halted or repelled for nationwide security.

The year 2014 saw the beginning of Operation Zarb-e-Azb, particularly for the purpose of ridding North Waziristan of militant sanctuaries. Indeed, the operation pursued a multi-pronged approach-air strikes and ground forces with intelligence-based operations-to dent the backbone of terrorist organizations for restoring stability in the region.

While Defence Day in Pakistan remains a time for introspection of old victories, it remains a time to pay respect to the commitment of the Pakistani military that continues to this day. The sacrifices of 83,000 Pakistani lives, including 6,802 security personnel, underscore the immense cost of ensuring the country’s safety and security. Bravery by those who have fallen in service poignantly points at the high stakes involved in safeguarding the nation.

This Defence Day reminds Pakistan to remember and salute its heroes, who remain important even in the annals of military history. The day stands as a strong reminder of the enduring spirit of the nation: steadfast resolve in protecting its sovereignty and peace.

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