Indian UNIFIL battalion celebrates 80th Independence Day in South Lebanon

The Indian battalion deployed under the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) celebrated India’s 80th Independence Day at the ‘Indbat’ headquarters in South Lebanon. The event featured a flag-hoisting ceremony led by the Indian Ambassador to Lebanon, Mohammad Noor Rahman Sheikh, followed by a military parade showcasing the discipline and professionalism of the Indian armed forces.

The celebrations included cultural displays such as yoga, Bhangra, folk dances, and theatrical performances based on the lives of Mahatma Gandhi and Maharana Pratap. The event also highlighted India’s defense capabilities through the demonstration of indigenous high-mobility light tactical vehicles and military technology.

In the lead-up to the celebrations, from August 1 to August 15, the battalion conducted various community and humanitarian initiatives in South Lebanon. These included medical, dental, and veterinary camps, medicine distribution, summer camps for children, and educational sessions for women, aimed at strengthening ties with the local population.