3 days ago
Historic T-55 tank ‘Shivashakti' now in Ranebennur
The historic T-55 war tank 'Shivashakti', which was used in the historic Indo-Pak war for Bangladesh liberation will now be on public display in Ranebennur of Haveri district.
The historic tank will now be on display permanently before the Mini Vidhana Soudha in Ranebennur, thanks to the interest taken by Ranebennur MLA Prakash Koliwad. During the Independence Day celebration on Friday, Speaker of Karnataka Legislative Assembly U.T. Khader unveiled the tank.
Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Prakash Koliwad said: 'The display of the war tank is a way of honouring the brave soldiers, who led the tank in the war field. It is also aimed at inspiring the youngsters and sensitising them about country's military power'.
Speaker U.T. Khader termed the installation of the tank at Ranebennur as a matter of pride for the whole State. 'It inspires the younger generation to know more about the history our military and take pride in it'.
He also called on everyone to understand the history and be patriotic and contribute towards nation building.
History
During the Indo-Pak war in 1965, the necessity of armored fighting vehicles was felt by the Indian Army. Therefore, the Indian government approached European countries for the supply of battle tanks. The T-55 tank was procured during the period 1966-77. It was the main battle tank at that period of time and as per the prevailing policy, it was to have a life of 15 years with one mid-life overhaul.
This T55 tank was procured from Russia during the war between Indo-Pak for Bangla liberation in 1971, named Shivashakti and it helped army men to succeed in their mission and to achieve victory. Shivashakti belongs to assault regiment of Indian Army and has been procured from the Central Army Fighting Vehicle Depot at Kirkee in Pune (Maharashtra).
The tank has been installed in Ranebennur utilising ₹15 lakh released from the MLA's local area development fund and ₹9.85 lakh from the municipal grants.
