Defence Minister to Unveil 1971 War Hero's Statue

• 12 Dec 2025

Why in News? 

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh will unveil a statue of Thakur Balwant Singh in Bakhasar village, Barmer district, Rajasthan, on 13th December 2025. 

Key Points 

• War Hero: Thakur Balwant Singh played a crucial role in supporting the Indian Army during the 1971 India-Pakistan war, especially during the Chhachhro Raid. 
• Contribution: His local knowledge and bravery helped the Indian Army capture Chhachhro in Sindh and drive out the Pakistani forces. 
• Recognition: In honour of his contributions, criminal cases against Singh were withdrawn, and he was granted two all-India weapon licenses. 
• Legacy: Thakur Balwant Singh passed away in 1991, and his legacy is being commemorated with the unveiling of the statue.

Shimla Agreement, 1972 

• It was signed on 2nd July 1972 after the 1971 Indo-Pak War, which led to the creation of Bangladesh.  
• It was negotiated by PM Indira Gandhi and Pakistan's President Zulfikar Ali Bhutto to normalise relations and establish peace.  
• Objectives:  
  • Resolve the Kashmir issue bilaterally, preventing internationalisation.  
  • Improve Indo-Pak ties based on the new regional power balance.  
  • India refrained from making the ceasefire line a permanent boundary to prevent further resentment in Pakistan.  
• Key Provisions:  
  • Conflict Resolution: Issues to be resolved bilaterally and peacefully.  
  • Line of Control (LoC): Both sides agreed to respect the LoC in Kashmir, established after the 1971 war, and not alter its status unilaterally.  
  • Troop Withdrawal: Forces to withdraw to their respective sides of the international border.  
  • Future Diplomacy: Provisions for continued dialogue and repatriation of prisoners of war.