In Assal Uttar, Diamond Jubilee of the 1965 Indo-Pak War: Governor pays tribute to valour and sacrifice
Ferozepur: 30 September 2025: The Golden Arrow Division under the aegis of Vajra Corps of the Indian Army, commemorated the Diamond Jubilee of the Indian Army’s victory during the India-Pakistan War of 1965 with solemnity and grandeur at Asal Uttar, Punjab, on 30 September 2025. The historic battlefield, remembered as the “Graveyard of Patton Tanks,” once again became the focal point of national remembrance and pride. The event was graced by the Governor of Punjab, Gulab Chand Kataria, as the Chief Guest and was attended by Lieutenant General Manoj Kumar Katiyar, PVSM, UYSM, AVSM, General Officer Commanding in Chief, Western Command and other military commanders, War Veterans, Veer Naris, civil dignitaries, students and local citizens in large numbers.
The commemoration paid tribute to the gallant soldiers whose indomitable courage and supreme sacrifice during the Battle of Asal Uttar and Battle of Barki turned the tide of the 1965 War in favour of the Nation. Special homage was paid to Company Quarter Master Havildar Abdul Hamid, Param Vir Chakra (Posthumous), whose unmatched bravery in destroying advanced and upgraded enemy tanks and the supreme sacrifice continues to inspire generations.
In his address, the Governor expressed his profound gratitude to the Indian Army for its unwavering commitment to safeguarding the sovereignty of the Nation and for preserving India’s proud military heritage. He said that the inauguration of ‘Archives-cum-Museum’ and ‘Hamid Gallery’ would not only immortalise the heroes of 1965 but also serve as a source of education/ knowledge, and inspiration for future generations. He also commended the Army and the Indian National Trust for Art & Cultural Heritage (INTACH) for the initiative to promote border tourism and strengthen the connection of citizens with the land of warriors, thereby deepening the sense of national pride.
Governor underlined the trust that the Nation reposes in the Indian Army to meet any future challenges, be they traditional or emerging. He affirmed that as India marches ahead into the era of Amrit Kaal, the Army will continue to play a pivotal role in National Security, in fostering unity, and inspiring the youth to dedicate themselves to the service of the Nation with courage, discipline and integrity.
During the event, war veterans and Veer Naris were honoured in recognition of their sacrifices. The Archives-cum-Museum was inaugurated as a permanent repository of the 1965 War, preserving the history, artefacts and stories of valour for posterity. The Hamid Gallery, dedicated to the memory of CQMH Abdul Hamid, PVC, was also inaugurated and opened to the public as a mark of gratitude to one of India’s bravest and fearless celebrated heroes.
The Diamond Jubilee celebrations at Asal Uttar reinforced the enduring bond between the Armed Forces and the citizens of Bharat, a land synonymous with valour and martial traditions. The occasion served as a solemn remembrance of sacrifices, a celebration of military heritage and a pledge for the future, as the Nation steps confidently into Amrit Kaal with faith in its Armed Forces.