New Delhi: On the occasion 'Swarnim Vijay Parv', a pre-recorded message of Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Bipin Rawat, who lost his life in a helicopter crash on December 8, was played at an event at India Gate lawns in the national capital to mark 50 years of India’s victory over Pakistan in the 1971 war.

This message was recorded on December 7. In the recorded video, General Rawat paid tribute to the armed force personnel who lost their lives on the line of duty.

"Greetings to the armed force personnel on the occasion of Swarnim Vijay Parv. Vijay Parv is being celebrated to commemorate 50 years of India's historic victory in the 1971 war. I would like to pay tribute to the armed force personnel who sacrificed their lives on the line of duty," General Rawat said in the message.

Earlier on Sunday, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh inaugurated Swarnim Vijay Parv celebrations, earlier in the day to commemorate 50 years of India's victory in the 1971 war and Indo-Bangladesh friendship.

During the event, major weapons and equipment used during the 1971 war have been displayed along with snippets of major battles.

Rajnath Singh will also be present at the closing ceremony on December 13. Many dignitaries, including from Bangladesh, are expected to be present at the ceremony.