Flag hoisted at Laungewala to commemorate 1971 battle

The Indian Army commemorated the battle of Laungewala fought during the India-Pakistan war of 1971 by unfurling the national flag atop a 108-feet high mast at the Laungewala Yudh Sthal in Rajasthan today. It marks the anniversary of the battle that saw a Company (120 men) of the 23rd battalion of the Punjab Regiment hold back about 40 tanks and a Pakistani Brigade of some 2500 troops. The Indian Air Force had then sent in its planes which then bombed the Pakistan Army.

The installation of the flag was made possible through the joint efforts of the Indian Army and the Flag Foundation of India.

The event was graced by war veterans, including Naik Jagdev Singh and Hav Mukhtiyar Singh from 23 Punjab, who participated in this epic battle 53 years ago. They were also joined by eight other 1971 war veterans from Jaisalmer district. Amongst those present at the function were members from the Indian Air Force, Border Security Force, civil administration and the local community.

A war memorial at the actual battle site of Laungewala has become a prominent tourist destination, attracting lakhs of visitors to pay tribute to the soldiers. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during his visit in November 2020, had emphasised the importance of preserving this legacy while fostering its development as a site of national pride. Since then, under the concerted efforts of the Indian Army, Laungewala Yudh Sthal has witnessed extensive transformation.