Major General Kulvir Singh, Commandant of the Counter Insurgency and Jungle Warfare (CIJW) School, Vairengte, paid a courtesy visit to Lieutenant General Anand Sarup, Maha Vir Chakra (MVC) (Retd), linking a serving commander with one of the Indian Army’s well-known veterans of the 1971 Indo-Pak War. The meeting reflected respect for military service and the continuity of institutional memory within the Army.
The visit was also an occasion to acknowledge Lt Gen Anand Sarup’s role in the 1971 war, which is remembered for leading to the liberation of Bangladesh. According to the account, the interaction focused on his service record and the contribution he made to the Army during that campaign.
During the exchange, Maj Gen Kulvir Singh paid tribute to the veteran officer’s courage, leadership and commitment to the nation. The meeting highlighted the sacrifices and achievements of soldiers associated with one of India’s most significant military victories.
Lt Gen Anand Sarup is particularly remembered for his leadership in connection with Kilo Force during the 1971 Indo-Pak War. The formation operated in the eastern sector and was part of the wider military campaign in erstwhile East Pakistan.
During the war, Lt Gen Anand Sarup, then a Brigadier, commanded Kilo Force. The formation included Indian Army units and allied forces, including elements of the Mukti Bahini. It took part in important operations in the eastern theatre and contributed to developments that led to the liberation of Bangladesh in December 1971.
Kilo Force played a notable role in operations against Pakistani forces in the east. Its actions formed part of the broader military effort that shaped the outcome of the war.
Recognition of wartime service
For his conspicuous gallantry and outstanding leadership during the conflict, Lt Gen Anand Sarup was awarded the Maha Vir Chakra, India’s second-highest wartime gallantry award. His service during the campaign remains part of the Indian Army’s military heritage.
The meeting also pointed to Lt Gen Anand Sarup’s earlier connection with the CIJW School, where he previously served as Commandant. That link added an institutional dimension to the visit, reflecting continuity between past leadership and the present command.
The Counter Insurgency and Jungle Warfare School at Vairengte, Mizoram, is one of the Indian Army’s premier training establishments. As described in the source, it specialises in counter-insurgency operations, jungle warfare tactics and combat training in difficult terrain.
The institution is also used to prepare military personnel for challenging operational environments, with emphasis on tactical proficiency, leadership, adaptability and operational readiness. It has further earned recognition for providing specialised training to personnel from friendly foreign countries.
Bond between generations
The interaction between Maj Gen Kulvir Singh and Lt Gen Anand Sarup underscored the value of preserving military traditions and recognising the contributions of senior veterans whose experiences continue to guide serving officers and soldiers.
It also reflected the Indian Army’s stated commitment to maintaining strong relationships with veterans and acknowledging their place in the nation’s military history. The legacy of the 1971 war continues to hold a special place in that history, representing the courage, determination and operational excellence shown by the Indian Armed Forces during the conflict.
By honouring Lt Gen Anand Sarup, the visit served as a tribute to the courage and sacrifices of war veterans while reaffirming the enduring bond between generations of soldiers. It also highlighted the continuing significance of Kilo Force and the example it offers to future military leaders.
