1971: Indian Paratroopers' Strategic Triumph Over Pakistan Secures Dhaka's Destiny

In 1971, the Pakistan Army implemented a "fortress strategy" to defend Dacca during the Bangladesh Liberation War

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Indian Army executed a crucial airborne operation near Tangail, northwest of Dhaka, to intercept the retreating Pakistani 93 Infantry Brigade

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2 Para, under Lt Col Kulwant Singh Pannu, successfully para-dropped and captured the ferry site, countering Pakistani attacks on the Poongli bridge

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The Tangail airdrop, planned weeks before the war, was the largest airborne operation in the Indian subcontinent since World War 2

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Air superiority established by the Indian Air Force enabled the Tangail operation, involving around 750 paratroopers and air defense support

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The Battle of Tangail resulted in significant Pakistani casualties, with 143 soldiers killed in action and the 93 Infantry Brigade ceasing to exist

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Lt Col Kulwant Singh Pannu was awarded the Maha Vir Chakra for his leadership in the Tangail operation

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Information warfare played a role in creating fear among the Pakistani army, as the Indian Army strategically used the media to influence perceptions

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2 Para was the first Indian Army unit to reach Dacca, contributing to the surrender of Lt Gen AAK Niazi and marking a decisive moment in the Bangladesh Liberation War

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