Bajaj searches for 1971 war heroes of INS Vikrant

Automobiles major Bajaj Auto Ltd. has launched a search for the 1971 India-Pakistan war heroes who served on the iconic erstwhile aircraft carrier INS Vikrant, an official said here on Friday.

The 'Mission Vikrant 1971' of Bajaj Auto's 'V' motorcycles will search and honour the 1,300 crew that served on India's first aircraft carrier during the historic war which resulted in the birth of Bangladesh.

The digital initiative will identify and share details of these war heroes and preserve their stories for posterity, said Bajaj Auto Ltd. Vice-President for Marketing, Sumeet Narang.

Though a dedicated micro-site it has invited entries from families, friends and well-wishers of the 1971 war veterans and naval bravehearts who served on INS Vikrant.

"The intent will be to find out more about their enduring journey on INS Vikrant four-and-half decades ago, which will be showcased to the Indian public," Narang said.

The initiative was inspired by the Republic Day launch of its bike, Bajaj V which has been made with metal from the historic ship which was de-commissioned and finally scrapped in 2014.

"Ever since we unveiled the Bajaj V, we have been inundated with calls asking us about the INS Vikrant. We made a celebrated documentary, 'Sons of Vikrant' which captured stories and experience of senior naval personnel who served on the ship," Narang added.

Billed as the biggest ever nationwide search for the 1971 war veterans who served on INS Vikrant, the company will use digital and social media to urge every Indian to help in the quest.

Launched on August 15, the initiative has already reached around four million Indians and plans to reach 15 million in the next 40 days.

The Bajaj V, made from the invincible metal of INS Vikrant, has proved to be a huge success with over 100,000 pieces sold in just 120 days after launch on January 26 this year.

--IANS

qn/ahm/rn