Introduction
This is the inspiring story of Major Somnath Sharma, the first soldier to receive the Param Vir Chakra, India’s highest military award for bravery. He showed great courage and leadership during the Battle of Badgam in 1947, when India was newly independent. Though he lost his life at just 24 years old, his heroic actions helped save the Kashmir Valley and protect India’s borders. His story teaches us about patriotism, sacrifice, and the true meaning of serving the nation.
Key Points of the Story
- Major Somnath Sharma was a brave soldier and the first person to receive the Param Vir Chakra, India’s highest military honor.
- He is remembered for his heroism during the battle in the Kashmir Valley on November 3, 1947, while defending the Srinagar airport.
- In August 1947, Pakistan planned to take over Kashmir through a military operation called Operation Gulmarg, which was against an agreement with the local king.
- The Pakistani army trained a large number of fighters to invade Kashmir and capture important areas, including the Srinagar airport.
- On October 27, 1947, Indian troops were sent to protect Kashmir, and Major Somnath Sharma’s company flew in to help defend the area.
- Despite being injured and having only 90 men, Major Somnath led his soldiers against about 500 enemy fighters.
- During the battle, Major Somnath called for air support and bravely directed his men, even as they faced heavy enemy fire.
- He encouraged his soldiers to continue fighting, stating he would not retreat and would fight to the last man and the last bullet.
- Major Somnath Sharma was killed in battle, but his leadership inspired his men to hold their position for hours, allowing reinforcements to arrive.
- His actions during the battle ultimately saved Srinagar from being taken by enemy forces, earning him recognition and honour posthumously.
Try yourself:
What was Major Somnath Sharma known for during the battle?
- A.He called for peace talks
- B.He retreated quickly
- C.He encouraged his soldiers to fight
- D.He was afraid of the enemy
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Detailed Summary
In 1947, just after India gained independence, a serious threat came from Pakistan. A secret plan called Operation Gulmarg was started to take over Kashmir. Pakistani soldiers trained many invaders and sent them to secretly enter Kashmir, hoping to capture important places like the Srinagar airport. On 26 October 1947, Kashmir joined India, and the Indian Army was sent the next day to protect the region.
Since the road to Kashmir was damaged, Indian soldiers had to be flown to Srinagar. Among them was Major Somnath Sharma, who led D Company of the 4th Kumaon Regiment. Even though his left arm was in plaster, he insisted on going with his men. He said, “If they are going into action, they are not going in without me.” This showed his deep love and duty towards his soldiers.
The village of Badgam, near Srinagar airport, was at a higher place and very important. Indian troops were sent to check the area because of reports of enemy movement. On 3 November 1947, Major Somnath’s company was the last to remain in the area after others returned. Suddenly, around 500 enemy fighters attacked his group of just 90 soldiers.
At first, the attack looked small, but Major Somnath realised it was just a trick. Soon, a bigger attack came from another direction. Even though they were outnumbered, he stayed calm. He quickly sent a message asking for air support and laid out special ground signs to guide the fighter planes to the enemy.
As the battle grew intense, Major Somnath moved bravely through gunfire. He filled magazines, guided his soldiers, and never stopped encouraging them. Even though he was hurt, he kept fighting. When they began running out of ammunition, his seniors asked him to fall back, but he refused. His final words were, “The enemy is only 50 yards from us… I shall not withdraw an inch but will fight to the last man and the last round.”
While helping a machine gunner in a trench, a mortar shell exploded and killed him instantly. His soldiers were shocked, but his bravery gave them the strength to keep fighting for over six more hours. Their fight slowed down the enemy, which allowed Indian reinforcements to arrive and protect the Srinagar airport.
Thanks to the bravery of Major Somnath and his men, the enemy lost over 300 fighters, and Srinagar was saved. For their sacrifice, the 4 Kumaon Regiment was given the Battle Honour. Major Somnath Sharma was only 24 years old when he died, but he showed the courage of a true hero.
Before this war, Major Somnath had already served in the Second World War in Burma and was known for his bravery. He was born on 31 January 1923 in Dadh, Himachal Pradesh, into a family with a military background. His father was a Major General, and his grandfather taught him stories of heroes from the Mahabharata.
He studied at Sherwood College, Nainital, and trained at the Royal Military College in Sandhurst. He was commissioned in 1942 and served in the 19th Hyderabad Regiment. Though he died young, his life was full of honour, discipline, and courage. The battle of Badgam made him a symbol of bravery for all Indians.
Today, Major Somnath Sharma’s name is written with pride at the National War Memorial. His story continues to inspire soldiers and citizens, reminding us of the price of freedom and the spirit of those who protect our nation. His sacrifice will never be forgotten.
Try yourself:
What do bees make from nectar?
- A.Honey
- B.Wax
- C.Sugar
- D.Pollen
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Theme/Message
- The theme of bravery and sacrifice is central to Major Somnath Sharma’s story. His willingness to fight against overwhelming odds showcases true courage.
- The story emphasises the importance of duty and loyalty to one’s country. Major Somnath’s commitment to his men and nation is an inspiring example for everyone.
- The message of the story is that even in the face of danger, standing firm for what is right and protecting others is what true heroism looks like.
- Major Somnath Sharma’s legacy teaches us that selflessness and dedication to one’s duty can make a significant impact, even if it comes with great personal cost.
Difficult Words
- Valiant: Brave and courageous.
- Beacons: Signals of light guiding people; in this case, inspiration.
- Guerrilla: A member of a small group that fights against a larger force, often in surprise attacks.
- Infiltrators: People who enter a place secretly to gather information or take control.
- Contingent: A group of people representing a larger organisation.
- Aerial: Related to the air, often referring to aircraft or flying.
- Reinforcements: Additional support or help, usually in a military context.
- Courage: The ability to face fear or pain bravely.
- Devastating: Causing severe damage or destruction.
- Posthumously: Awarded or recognised after someone has died.
- Legacy: Something handed down from one generation to another; in this case, Major Somnath’s impact on future generations.
- Integrity: The quality of being honest and having strong moral principles.
- Patriotism: Love for one’s country and willingness to defend it.
- Strategic: Carefully planned to achieve a specific goal.
- Honour: Great respect or esteem; in this case, awarded for bravery in military service.