In 1971, India's paratroopers outwitted Pakistan, sealing Dhaka's fate with swift precision.

Exactly fifty-two years ago, on December 11-12, the Indian Army executed a strategic airborne operation, deftly out-maneuvering retreating Pakistani troops and advancing triumphantly toward Dhaka.

Between the Padma River to its west and the Meghna to its east, Dhaka found itself strategically positioned. The advance of India's 2 and 33 Corps into the western districts of Bangladesh, along the Jamuna-Padma river banks, symbolised a pivotal stride into the core of the nation.

The Famous Surrender:

The Indian Army strategically outsmarted Pakistan through a battalion-sized airborne operation, engaging a brigade that would later contribute to the surrender of Lt Gen AAK Niazi, the commander of the East Pakistan army.
The 2nd Battalion of the Parachute Regiment, commonly known as 2 Para, was air-lifted from the Kalaikunda and Dum Dum bases in West Bengal. They executed a para-drop near Tangail, about 85 kilometres northwest of Dhaka, with the mission to secure the Poongli bridge and intercept the 93 Infantry Brigade.

Approximately 750 paratroopers from 2 Para, led by Lieutenant Colonel Kulwant Singh Pannu, embarked on the mission using 6 An-12s, 20 Fairchild Packets, and 22 Dakota aircraft. The airborne operation was accompanied by air defence support from Gnats and Mig-21s.

The Day:

On December 12, Pakistani attacks were thwarted by 2 Para, resulting in over 100 casualties for the Pakistani troops. an Indian Air Force air strike took place during the day, leading to the disbandment of the 93 Infantry Brigade.

Game of Warfare Narrative:

While the newspapers were briefed about the mission, there were no available photos of the paradrop due to restricted access. Ram Mohan Rao contributed a picture taken a year prior in Agra, featuring a para drop exercise by the 50 Para Brigade.

The image of 3,000 men paradropping over Tangail, coupled with the fear it instilled in the Pakistani army stationed in the east, contributed to making the Tangail operation a significant factor leading to the eventual surrender.