By Sara Nazir

Each year on September 6th, Pakistan observes Defence Day, honoring the valor and sacrifices of its war heroes. On this day in 1965, Pakistan's military repelled a significant Indian offensive, while aptly defending national frontiers against an aggressive incursion by a much larger enemy. The inimical offensive was aimed at halting Pakistan’s advance into Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu & Kashmir (IIOJ&K). Indian assault primarily targeted Lahore, Sialkot and barren stretches of Sindh.

During this intense period, Pakistan Navy launched Operation Dwarka, codenamed Operation Somnath, in a strategic bid to undermine Indian military operations. On the night of September 8th, six Pakistani frigates ventured 200 nautical miles (about 350 kilometers) into Indian waters with precision. Meanwhile, the submarine PNS Ghazi remained submerged at a depth of 400 feet, adding to the operation's complexity. Operation Dwarka was not merely a tactical strike but a symbolic gesture, as the targeted area included the coastal site of the Somnath Temple, which had been attacked historically. The operation was aimed to neutralize the Indian radar station in Dwarka, which was providing critical support to Indian fighter jets on the front lines, besides disrupting Indian naval operations. Pakistan Navy's successful assault on the radar station, naval air base, and lighthouse effectively crippled the Indian Navy’s capacity, leaving it in a vulnerable position. Vice Admiral (retired) Irfan Ahmad Hilal emphasized the strategic importance of Operation Dwarka, noting that it played a crucial role in alleviating pressure on the Pakistan Air Force, which was heavily engaged in Kashmir. The operation had two main objectives: to destroy the radar station and to block enemy sea routes, thereby strengthening Pakistan's defensive capabilities.

On the land front, Pakistan Army's 16 Punjab Regiment made extraordinary sacrifices. Positioned in Lahore, this regiment held firm against overwhelming odds, with only two companies defending against 36 enemy companies for record period of 12 days. Their tenacity prevented the enemy from seizing the Bambanwali Ravi Bedian (BRB) Link Canal, a vital defensive line. 16 Punjab offered the highest number of martyrs of any unit in Pakistan Army history, with 106 soldiers laying lives for defence of motherland.

Brigadier (retired) Sher Afgan recounted his platoons' efforts during the 1965 War. His units were ordered to advance into Indian territory along the eastern border of Lahore to secure the BRB Canal. One company successfully captured the Indian Rani Post near the Wagha Border, while another took an Indian position across the River Ravi.

The conflict that saw intense battles and significant sacrifices, continued until September 23, 1965, when both nations agreed to a ceasefire under United Nations mediation. Defence Day stands as a solemn tribute to the enduring courage and sacrifice of Pakistan's armed forces, who played a decisive role in defending their nation during a critical period. Defence Day is also an occasion to pay tribute to those heroes, who sacrifice their lives for the defence of motherland, endorsing unmatchable accounts of valour, selflessness and sacrifice.