The Chief of the Army Staff paid homage at the National War Memorial in New Delhi to honour the soldiers who fought in Operation Pawan, the Indian Peace Keeping Force mission in Sri Lanka during 1987 to 1990. This ceremony marks an important moment because the operation and the soldiers who served in it were often overlooked for decades.

Operation Pawan was launched after the Indo Sri Lanka Accord of 1987. India sent troops to Sri Lanka to stabilise the conflict, protect civilians and help enforce peace in the region. Indian soldiers were tasked with disarming militant groups, including the LTTE, and restoring order in an extremely tense environment. The mission proved far more dangerous than expected. Soldiers faced hostile terrain, guerrilla warfare, ambushes and heavy casualties. More than a thousand Indian soldiers lost their lives and many more were injured.

For many years, veterans and families of fallen soldiers felt that their sacrifices were not recognised publicly. Operation Pawan remained a sensitive and often forgotten chapter in Indian military history because of the political complications surrounding the mission. The tribute at the National War Memorial finally acknowledges the courage, service and loss of those who were part of this difficult operation.

Why This Tribute Matters

This recognition is significant because it gives long overdue respect to the soldiers who fought in a foreign land under extremely difficult circumstances. The ceremony brings emotional closure to families who waited decades for acknowledgement. It also shows that the nation values the service of all soldiers, even in missions that were complicated or controversial.

Tributes like this also help preserve history. A large number of young Indians today are unaware of Operation Pawan and the sacrifices that took place. By honouring these bravehearts, the Army ensures that this chapter becomes part of India’s collective memory. It reminds the country that military history is not only about celebrated victories but also about difficult missions that demanded courage, commitment and resilience.

What India Should Take Away

India’s tribute to Operation Pawan is a reminder that service and sacrifice must never be judged by political outcomes. Soldiers undertake missions as a duty to the nation, and their contributions deserve respect regardless of how history interprets the operation. Recognising their role encourages a culture of honour, gratitude and remembrance.

The tribute also calls for greater awareness and support for veterans who participated in complex operations. It highlights the importance of acknowledging mental, emotional and physical scars that many soldiers carry long after the mission ends. Respecting their service strengthens the bond between citizens and the armed forces.

The Bigger Message

Operation Pawan may have been a forgotten mission for many, but the bravery shown by Indian soldiers was real and profound. By paying homage today, the Army has reaffirmed that no sacrifice is too old to be honoured. It sends a message that the nation stands by its soldiers, remembers them and respects them, even decades later.