Albert Ekka Brigade marks its 56th Raising Day in Agartala, honouring 1971 war heroes, Param Vir Chakra legacy, and the brigade’s historic role in safeguarding national security and regional stability.
The Indian Army’s Albert Ekka Brigade, a formation with a distinguished legacy rooted in the 1971 India-Pakistan War, solemnly observed its 56th Raising Day on Thursday at the Agartala Military Station. The commemorative event highlighted the brigade’s historic contributions, exceptional bravery, and unwavering commitment to national service.
According to an official defence spokesperson, the Raising Day celebrations were conducted with dignity and deep reverence, reflecting the brigade’s proud traditions and operational excellence. The ceremony served as a reminder of the formation’s illustrious past and its continued role in safeguarding India’s territorial integrity, particularly in the strategically significant northeastern region.
The day’s observances began with a wreath-laying ceremony to honour soldiers who made the supreme sacrifice while serving the nation. Senior officers, junior commissioned officers, other ranks, and civil dignitaries participated in paying homage to the fallen heroes. The tribute underscored the enduring legacy of courage and dedication that continues to inspire present and future generations of Indian Army personnel.
The defence spokesperson noted that the Albert Ekka Brigade holds a rare and exceptional distinction within the Indian Army. The brigade has been awarded two of the country’s highest gallantry honours during both war and peacetime. Most notably, it is associated with the only Param Vir Chakra awarded during the 1971 India-Pakistan War, India’s highest military decoration for valour in the face of the enemy.
The brigade’s recent relocation to the Agartala Military Station adds historical significance to its Raising Day celebrations. It was from the Agartala sector that the brigade was launched into combat during the 1971 war under Operation Cactus Lilly. The return to this historic location symbolically reconnects the formation with one of the most defining chapters in its operational history.
During the 1971 conflict, the Albert Ekka Brigade played a decisive role in the Battle of Gangasagar near the Tripura border. In this crucial engagement, Lance Naik Albert Ekka of the 14th Guards battalion displayed extraordinary courage while assaulting and neutralising a heavily fortified enemy position. His fearless action ensured the security of Agartala from a significant threat. Lance Naik Ekka laid down his life during the operation and was posthumously awarded the Param Vir Chakra for his conspicuous gallantry and supreme sacrifice.
Addressing officers and troops on the occasion, Brigadier Dheeraj Singh, Commander of the Albert Ekka Brigade, praised the formation for its consistent professionalism, operational readiness, and high morale. He acknowledged the brigade’s enduring contributions to national security and its vital role in maintaining peace and stability in the northeastern frontier.
The Brigadier also highlighted the brigade’s support to civil authorities during emergencies and humanitarian situations, noting that such efforts reflect the Indian Army’s broader commitment to the nation beyond the battlefield. He urged all ranks to uphold the highest traditions of the service and to continue discharging their duties with honour, integrity, and selfless devotion.
The Raising Day celebrations concluded with informal interactions between officers and soldiers, reinforcing camaraderie, unity, and esprit de corps within the formation. The occasion reaffirmed the brigade’s resolve to remain battle-ready and prepared to meet future challenges in an evolving security environment.
Defence analyst Manas Paul provided historical context to the brigade’s role in the 1971 war, explaining that the conflict involved two major military operations — Operation Cactus Lilly and Operation Nut Cracker. Both operations were conducted with significant involvement from the 57 Mountain Division, which advanced westward from Agartala towards Dhaka with sustained firepower and coordinated manoeuvres.
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Paul noted that the war ultimately concluded on December 16, 1971, with the unconditional surrender of approximately 93,000 Pakistani soldiers, marking one of the largest military surrenders since World War II. The decisive victory led to the creation of an independent Bangladesh and remains a defining moment in South Asian military history.
Recalling the heroes of the conflict, Paul mentioned distinguished figures such as Lieutenant General Jagjit Singh Aurora, Major General (Retd) Ian Cardozo, Lieutenant Arun Khetrapal, and Lance Naik Albert Ekka, whose courage and leadership continue to be revered.
As the Albert Ekka Brigade marks 56 years of service, its Raising Day serves not only as a commemoration of past glory but also as a reaffirmation of its enduring commitment to the nation. Rooted in sacrifice, shaped by battle, and driven by duty, the brigade stands as a symbol of the Indian Army’s timeless values and unyielding spirit.
