Bangladesh Armed forces create history on Delhi’s Rajpath

NEW DELHI: It was a historic occasion and a treat for the eyes as the 122-member strong contingent of the Bangladesh Armed Forces marched down the Rajpath at the Republic Day celebrations. It was a matter of honour for both India and Bangladesh and befitting to mark 50 years of independence.

The contingent was led by commander Lt Col Abu Mohammed Shahnoor Shawon and his deputies Lieutenant Farhan Ishraq and Flight Lieutenant Sibat Rahman. The contingent comprised soldiers of the Bangladesh Army, sailors of the Bangladesh Navy and air warriors of the Bangladesh Air Force.

The contingent marched to the song of “Shono Ekti Mujibur-er theke lokkho Mujibur” (From one Mujibur to lakhs of Mujibur). Defence cooperation and partnership between India and Bangladesh has made significant gains in the last few years. India plans to jointly produce defence equipment with Bangladesh. India has extended a defence line of credit of US$ 500 million to Bangladesh

The majority of the soldiers in this contingent hailed from the most distinguished units of the Bangladesh Army comprising 1, 2, 3, 4, 8, 9, 10 & 11 East Bengal Regiment and 1, 2 and 3 Field Artillery Regiment. These units have the distinct honour of fighting and winning the 1971 Liberation War, ET has learnt.

This Bangladesh contingent carries with them the legacy of legendary Muktijoddhas of Bangladesh, their fore-fathers who fought against oppression, mass atrocities by tyrannical forces and for the freedom of Bangladesh, sources recalled. The participation of the contingent also has members of the Bangladesh Navy and Air force who had contributed to the liberation of Bangladesh.

“The valiant Mukti Bahini and the Indian forces fought side by side against the enemy and secured victory. The blood of Mukti Bahini and Indian soldiers mingled with the soil and water of Bangladesh. This is a bond like no other; it is unparalleled in the annals of history. Our history is resplendent with stories of courage and eternal sacrifice of the Muktijoddhas and the Indian soldiers for a noble and just cause,” a source recalled.

Bangladesh Armed Forces is considered a disciplined and professional force. Growing numbers of women are joining the forces to serve the country, and like India armed forces, the Bangladesh Armed Forces has also contributed to the UN peacekeeping operations across the world.

This year India and Bangladesh celebrate 50 years of the establishment of their diplomatic ties and both sides have agreed to hold commemorative events in several other countries and also jointly organize events throughout the year.