February 14 is observed as Black Day in India to honour the 40 CRPF personnel who lost their lives in the 2019 Pulwama terror attack. On this day, the nation pays solemn tribute to the brave soldiers whose sacrifice left an indelible mark on India’s collective memory.
February 14, 2026, marks the 7th anniversary of the Pulwama Attack.
What Happened on 14 February 2019?
On February 14, 2019, a suicide bomber rammed an explosives-laden vehicle into a convoy of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) in Pulwama district of Jammu and Kashmir. The massive blast killed 40 jawans and injured several others.
The Pakistan-based terror group Jaish-e-Mohammed claimed responsibility for the attack. The incident triggered nationwide grief and strong diplomatic and security responses from India.
Why India Observes Black Day
While February 14 is widely known as Valentine’s Day globally, in India it is also a day of remembrance. Citizens across the country observe Black Day to:
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Pay tribute to the fallen soldiers
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Express solidarity with their families
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Reaffirm unity against terrorism
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Honour the courage and dedication of security forces
Pulwama Attack: India’s Response
- The Pulwama terror attack sparked deep anger and grief across the country. In its aftermath, the Indian government made it clear that those responsible would face consequences.
- On February 26, 2019, the Indian Air Force carried out airstrikes in Balakot, targeting what were described as training camps of Jaish-e-Mohammed in Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province.
- The operation marked a significant development in India’s counter-terror approach and drew global attention.
- Alongside military action, India also intensified its diplomatic efforts. New Delhi reached out to major world powers and international organisations to build pressure against cross-border terrorism.
- One key focus was ensuring that Pakistan remained under scrutiny by the Financial Action Task Force (FATF), particularly on issues related to terror financing.
Candlelight marches, memorial events, and social media tributes are organised nationwide.