[Image Description: A landscape header illustration with trees, a peacock on a field, the text "UNIT 2 VALUES AND DISPOSITIONS", and a spacecraft (Chandrayaan-3 lander Vikram) set against a starry sky with the Moon.]

A TALE OF VALOUR: MAJOR SOMNATH SHARMA AND THE BATTLE OF BADGAM

Let us do these activities before we read.

I. Work in pairs. Share your thoughts with you classmates and teacher.

i. What images come to you when you think of our Republic Day of Jan 26 Parade in New Delhi? (ii) Who takes salute on this day there? (iii) What military equipment are displayed?

II. Work in groups of four and discuss.

1. What bravery awards are given to our soldiers on this day?

2. Who receives the awards?

3. Can you recall any soldier from Odisha receiving any award for his great work in Indian army?

4. Discuss the qualities of a soldier?

[Image Description: An aerial photograph of the Republic Day Parade on Kartavya Path (Rajpath) in New Delhi showing marching contingents and spectators.]

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Let us read

Mera desh, mera desh re Mera desh hua re roshan, le qurban kiya tujh hee pe ye tan man...

[Image Description: Logo of "Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav" celebrating 75 years of Indian independence.]

[Image Description: Portrait of Major Somnath Sharma in Indian Army uniform with the Param Vir Chakra medal shown beside him.]

Major Somnath Sharma (1923–1947)

[Image Description: Insignia / Crest of the Kumaon Regiment showing a demi-lion holding a cross.]

Kumaon Regiment Crest

etched: permanently fixed in someone's memory

beacon: a source of inspiration

valour: courage

This is a tribute to the valiant Major Somnath Sharma, India's first recipient of the Param Vir Chakra, whose name is etched in the annals of history. His bravery and sacrifice stand as a beacon of inspiration for generations. At every intersection of patriotism—whether through the National War Memorial, soul stirring patriotic songs, books, and stories recounting acts of valour, or the celebrations of Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav—his memory is honoured. Major Somnath Sharma's legacy of courage and devotion to the nation remains forever alive, forever alive... reminding us of the ultimate price paid for our freedom.

The serene Kashmir valley in the shadows of the majestic Himalayas witnessed a tale of extraordinary heroism and sacrifice to protect the

[Image Description: An illustration showing a picturesque valley in Kashmir with snow-peaked mountains, pine trees, and a small group of soldiers marching along a trail.]

integrity of Indian borders. The day began with the silence of a cold November dawn but ended with echoes of courage that served as an inspiration for generations to come.

This is the story of Major Somnath Sharma and the brave men that he led on a mission to protect the Srinagar airport from falling into the hands of a guerrilla force trained and backed by Pakistan. This is a story of how 90 men managed to foil the plan of some 500 infiltrators who wanted to capture Srinagar and the Kashmir Valley and deliver a blow to newly-independent India.

The events that led to the Battle of Badgam started in August 1947, when Pakistan launched Operation Gulmarg to annex the Kashmir Valley. This was in violation of an existing agreement with Hari Singh, the Maharaja of Jammu and Kashmir, who had committed Pakistan not to attack the state.

However, instead of honouring the commitment, the Pakistani Army trained and equipped around 1000 invaders who possessed deep knowledge of mountain passes and the local terrain to enter Kashmir and take control of strategic locations, including the Srinagar airport. The ultimate goal of their plan was to engineer a revolt in Kashmir, overthrow the government, and capture the territory. If they had succeeded, it would

infiltrators: people who secretly invade

annex: to take possession of

combat: a battle

unfounded: not based on reason or facts

eerily: in a strange, frightening and mysterious way

have allowed them to control strategic mountain passes, peaks, and rivers. On 22 October, Operation Gulmarg was launched and these infiltrators invaded Kashmir, which led to the Princely State becoming a part of India on 26 October 1947.

In response to this invasion, the Government of India sent its troops to defend the people of Kashmir and India's borders on 27 October 1947. A contingent of troops posted to Jammu and Kashmir was airlifted into Srinagar because the land route through Pathankot was not in a good condition.

On 31 October, the D Company of the 4th Battalion of Kumaon Regiment, under the command of Major Somnath Sharma, was also flown into Srinagar. At that time, Major Somnath Sharma's left hand was in plaster, but he insisted on being with his company while in combat. He knew that this mission would be very challenging and told his senior officers, "I know my men better than anyone else, and if they are going into action, they are not going in without me." These words highlighted his commitment to his men and his country.

Before their arrival in Srinagar, there had been unfounded rumours of tribal movement towards the village of Badgam, less than 5 kilometres away from the Srinagar airport. The village was on a higher altitude than the airfield, and access was through the village. Hence, it was important for Indian forces to retain control of the area in order to protect troops and facilitate supplies arriving via air.

In reality, the enemy had started arriving in Badgam in small groups to avoid detection. On 03 November 1947, several companies, including Major Somnath Sharma's D Company, were sent to patrol and assess emerging threats in and around the village. Throughout the day, the valley was eerily silent. Around afternoon, the companies were ordered to return one by one. D company with 90 soldiers was the last, and they were expected to return by 2:00 p.m.

When the enemy (tribal guerrilla invaders), under the command of the Pakistani army, saw that only a small group of Indian soldiers were left behind in Badgam, they attacked them. Their initial attack was met with stiff resistance by Major Somnath and his men. However, Major Somnath

[Image Description: An illustration showing soldiers in combat gear taking cover behind defensive positions and firing their rifles in a mountainous terrain.]

correctly visualised that the first attack was just a distraction. Shortly thereafter, a major attack came from another side. By then, Major Somnath Sharma and his 90 soldiers were facing about 500 invaders.

The Pakistani invaders sought to capture the Srinagar airfield and its surrounding areas. It was clear to Major Somnath Sharma that defending Srinagar town, the airfield, and the wider valley was indeed difficult until reinforcements arrived.

After assessing the situation, he requested air strikes. He bravely laid out ground panels to guide the aircraft towards their target. The aerial attacks were successful in hitting the tribal invaders, but they still outnumbered D Company by almost seven to one, the attack on the positions occupied by Major Somnath’s men continued.

Vastly outnumbered and facing devastating fire, Major Somnath Sharma and his men stood resolute. The air was thick with the sound of gunfire and the cries of battle, but Major Somnath Sharma’s voice cut through the chaos, urging his men to fight with tenacity and valour.

Despite heavy casualties and his own injuries, Major Somnath Sharma displayed unparalleled bravery. He moved fearlessly through the battlefield, directing fire, filling magazines for his gunners, and encouraging his men to hold their ground.

outnumbered: were greater in number

resolute: determined

tenacity: determination

unparalleled: unmatched

magazines: (here) containers that hold cartridges to be fed into a gun

[Image Description: A composite image featuring two photographs of Major Somnath Sharma with the tricolour background and the Kumaon Regiment crest in between.]

[Image Description: Front view of the Param Vir Chakra bronze medal with the national emblem in the centre surrounded by four replicas of Indra's Vajra.]

"I shall not withdraw an inch but will fight to the last man and the last round" — Major Somnath Sharma, PVC

ammunition: a supply of bullets, shells, and explosives

crouched: sat with knees bent

conspicuous: noticeable

posthumously: after death

However, as the battle progressed, D Company began running out of ammunition. When Major Somnath Sharma informed Brigade headquarters about this, he was asked to pull back. Aware of the gravity of the situation, he responded with the words, "The enemy is only 50 yards from us. We are heavily outnumbered. We are under devastating fire. I shall not withdraw an inch but will fight to the last man and the last round".

Just a few minutes later, when he was crouched in a trench next to a machine gun operator, in order to help him load the gun, his position was hit by a mortar shell, killing him instantly.

Despite losing their Major and faced with the overwhelming numerical superiority of the enemy, the heroic actions of late Major Somnath Sharma motivated his men to hold on to their position for over six more hours before being overrun by the enemy.

Their brave resistance provided time for reinforcements to arrive, including flying in soldiers from the Punjab regiment to Srinagar. The heroic deeds of Major Somnath and his men thoroughly demotivated the enemy, causing more than 300 casualties, including injuring their leader.

In many significant ways, D Company's sacrifice and Major Somnath's leadership saved Srinagar for India. The 4 KUMAON battalion was awarded the Battle Honour, Srinagar. Major Somnath laid down his life for the nation at the young age of 24. For this act of conspicuous bravery, Major Somnath Sharma was awarded the Param Vir Chakra (PVC). His citation reflects his heroism, patriotism, and courage. He was the first recipient of the PVC, awarded posthumously for gallantry and supreme sacrifice.

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MAJ SOMNATH SHARMA, PVC

[Image Description: An archival document reproduction of the original military recommendation and citation for Major Somnath Sharma.]

Subject :- HONOURS AND AWARDS.

Herewith I am forwarding the following names for an immediate award for personal courage and bravery :-

1. No. Rank: IC-521 T/MAJOR Name: SOM NATH SHARMA Unit: 4 KUMAON Appointment: O.C. 'D' COY.

2. HONOUR RECOMMENDED FOR :- Immediate Award of M.C.

3. CITATION :-

On landing at SIRINAGAR Airfield Major S.N.Sharma 'D' Coy was despatched to BADGAM village, with a view to prevent enemy from infiltrating and attacking SIRINAGAR Airfield. Major Sharma's Coy was involved in action against approximately 1000 enemy strong.

Major Sharma's leadership and personal courage and sacrificing his life by moving from post to post under heavy mortar and automatic fire he was responsible for his Coy holding against an overwhelming majority of enemy for nearly 4 hours and inflicting over 300 casualties on the enemy. Not only this even after his death his personal example of heroic enthusiasm made the Coy to fight for over an hour and only withdrew in an orderly fashion when ordered by the re-inforcement Commander. But for this Offr's bravery and sacrifice of his own life it is most probable that the SIRINAGAR Airfield would have been over run by the enemy and jeopardised the whole KASHMIR operations.

4. Date and Place of action :- 3 Nov'47. BADGAM VILLAGE.

Lt.Col. Comd 4 Kumaon Regt. (M.N.KHANNA)

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legacy: life experiences, values, beliefs, and traditions passed down from generation to generation

testament: strong evidence or proof

despatches: official reports on military affairs

forged: shaped or strengthened, often through hardship

We have delved into how the events of 03 November 1947, played out. It is also worth knowing more about the early life of Major Somnath and the events that led him to make the ultimate sacrifice for the nation.

Born on 31 January 1923, in the picturesque town of Dadh in Kangra, Himachal Pradesh, Somnath Sharma belonged to a family with a rich military legacy. His father, Major General Amar Nath Sharma, had served the nation with distinction. Young Somnath was also deeply inspired by the valorous tales of the Mahabharata, imparted to him by his grandfather.

From his early education at Sherwood College, Nainital, to his rigorous training at the Royal Military College, Sandhurst, Major Somnath Sharma's life was a testament to discipline and dedication. Commissioned into the 8th Battalion, 19th Hyderabad Regiment in 1942, he served with distinction during World War II in the Arakan Campaign in Burma, earning mentions in despatches for his bravery. However, it was during the Indo-Pakistan War of 1947-1948, particularly in the battle of Badgam, that the legacy of Major Somnath Sharma was truly forged.

The life and sacrifice of Major Somnath Sharma embody the highest ideals of duty, honour, and patriotism. He has been a source of inspiration for soldiers and citizens alike. Most importantly, his story is a reminder of the sacrifices made by countless men and women in defence of the motherland and highlights the profound sense of duty that inspired them.

[Image Description: A commemorative first day cover envelope issued by the Army Postal Service featuring Major Somnath Sharma, PVC, the Kumaon Regiment emblem, and postage stamps.]

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[Image Description: Emblem of the Ministry of Defence, Government of India with the text "रक्षा मंत्रालय / MINISTRY OF DEFENCE".]

CITATION

CITATION IN RESPECT OF IC-521 MAJOR SOMNATH SHARMA

On 03 Nov 1947, Major Somnath Sharma's company was ordered on a fighting patrol to Badgam in the Kashmir Valley. He reached his objective at first light on 03 Nov and took up a position south of Badgam at 1100 hours. The enemy, estimated at 500, attacked his company position with three sides, the company began to sustain heavy casualties.

Fully realizing the gravity of the situation and the direct threat that would result to both the aerodrome and Srinagar if the enemy attack was not held until reinforcements could be rushed to close the gap leading to Srinagar via Humhama, Major Sharma urged his company to fight the enemy tenaciously. With extreme bravery, he kept rushing across the open ground to his sections exposing himself to heavy and accurate fire to urge them to hold on. Keeping his nerve, he skillfully directed the fire of his section into the ever-advancing enemy. He repeatedly exposed himself to the full fury of enemy fire and laid out cloth strips to guide our aircraft onto their target in full view of the enemy.

Realising that casualties had affected the effectiveness of his light automatics, this officer, whose left hand was in plaster, personally commenced filling magazines and issuing them to light machine gunners. A mortar shell landing right in the middle of the ammunition resulted in an explosion that killed him.

Major Sharma's company held onto its position and the remnants withdrew only when almost completely surrounded. His inspiring example resulted in the enemy being delayed for six hours. Thus, gaining time for our reinforcements to get into position at Humhama to stem the tide of the enemy advance. His leadership, gallantry and tenacious defence were such that his men were inspired to fight the enemy by seven to one for six hours, one hour which was after this gallant officer had been killed.

He has set an example of courage and qualities seldom equaled in the history of the Indian Army.

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poignant: emotional and sad

In the quiet of the Kashmir Valley, where the echoes of D Company's battle with infiltrators have long since faded, the story of Major Somnath Sharma remains a beacon of courage and sacrifice. His valour ensured that the tricolour would continue to fly over Srinagar, and his name is forever etched in the golden pages of India's military history. The life and legacy of Major Somnath Sharma stands as a poignant reminder of the price of freedom and the enduring spirit of those who fought to protect it. His story, marked by selflessness and bravery, will continue to inspire and guide generations to come, ensuring that his sacrifice is never to be forgotten. His name is etched on the Honour Wall of the National War Memorial.

[Image Description: A photograph of brick tablets on the Honour Wall at the National War Memorial bearing the engraved names of bravehearts including "IC-521 MAJ SOMNATH SHARMA PVC 4 KUMAON".]

Honour Wall with Names of Bravehearts at the National War Memorial

[Image Description: Front and back view of the Param Vir Chakra medal with its purple ribbon.]

Medal of Honour

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[Image Description: An illustration of a floral memorial wreath made of white flowers and green leaves.]

Let us salute this braveheart.

Vande Mataram, vande mataram Sujalam suphalam malayaja shitalam, Shasya shyamalam mataram! Vande Mataram, vande mataram vande mataram... Jai Hind

Let us discuss

I Arrange the following events in chronological order. The first and the last events have been marked for you. Share your answers with your classmates and teacher.

1. Major Somnath Sharma was born in 1923 in Kangra, Himachal Pradesh. (1)

2. Even after losing Major Somnath Sharma, the soldiers fought bravely to save Srinagar for India.

3. The D Company, under the command of Major Somnath Sharma, was flown into Srinagar.

4. Major Somnath Sharma underwent training at the Royal Military College, Sandhurst.

5. Major Somnath Sharma requested air strikes to combat the enemy at Badgam.

6. Major Somnath Sharma was commissioned into the 19th Hyderabad Regiment in 1942.

7. Major Somnath Sharma was killed immediately after a mortar shell hit him.

8. Major Somnath Sharma was the first recipient of the Param Vir Chakra. (8)

Let us think and reflect

I Read the given extracts and answer the questions that follow.

1. Vastly outnumbered and facing devastating fire, Major Somnath Sharma and his men stood resolute. The air was thick with the sound of gunfire and the cries of battle, but Major Somnath Sharma's voice cut through the chaos, urging his men to fight with tenacity and valour.

[Image Description: A commemorative 500 paise postage stamp of India issued in honour of Major Somnath Sharma, PVC.]

Despite heavy casualties and his own injuries, Major Somnath Sharma displayed unparalleled bravery. He moved fearlessly through the battlefield, directing fire, filling magazines for his gunners, and encouraging his men to hold their ground.

(i) What do you understand about the conditions from the line: 'The air was thick with gunfire...'

A. The gunshots had stopped for a while. B. There was intense fighting on the battlefield. C. The invaders were retreating from the fight. D. The Indian soldiers had achieved victory.

(ii) Complete the sentence with a suitable reason.

Despite heavy casualties, Major Somnath Sharma continued to lead his men because

(iii) Select the correct option for both Assertion (A) and Reason (R) given below:

(A): Major Somnath Sharma moved fearlessly through the battlefield, even though he was injured. (R): He believed his courage was important to motivate the soldiers.

A. Both (A) and (R) are true, and (R) is the correct explanation of (A). B. Both (A) and (R) are true, but (R) is not the correct explanation of (A). C. (A) is true, but (R) is false. D. (A) is false, but (R) is true.

(iv) Fill in the blank with the correct word from those given in the brackets:

Major Somnath Sharma was filling magazines, and encouraging his men to hold their ground despite (injuries/worry)

2. Born on 31 January 1923, in the picturesque town of Dadh in Kangra, Himachal Pradesh, Somnath Sharma belonged to a family with a rich military legacy. His father, Major General Amar Nath Sharma, had served the nation with distinction, and young Somnath was deeply inspired by the valorous tales of the Mahabharata, imparted to him by his grandfather.

(i) What can be inferred about Somnath Sharma’s early influences on his career?

A. He was primarily influenced by his father's achievements in the military. B. His inspiration came solely from the tales of the Mahabharata. C. His family and heritage inspired his bravery and sense of duty. D. He decided to join the military out of necessity rather than passion.

(ii) Identify whether the following statement is true or false: Somnath Sharma belonged to a wealthy family. (iii) What does the phrase 'served the nation with distinction' tell us about Major General Amar Nath Sharma?

(He performed his duties with exceptional dedication, honour, and excellence./He was highly respected for his contributions to the country.)

(iv) Replace the underlined phrase with a word from the extract that has a similar meaning.

My family and I visited a popular hill station and stayed in an old but visually charming house surrounded by trees.

II Answer the following questions.

1. Why do you think Major Somnath's leadership was critical during the Battle of Badgam?

2. What were Major Somnath's last words? What do they reflect about his sense of duty?

3. What might have been the outcome of the Battle of Badgam if Major Somnath and his company had not held their ground?

4. Why do you think Major Somnath's story continues to inspire soldiers and civilians today?

5. How can the values demonstrated by Major Somnath Sharma—courage, duty, and self-sacrifice—be applied in our daily lives?

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Let us learn

I Match the expressions from the text in Column 1 with the most suitable situations given in Column 2.

Now, complete the following sentences using the expressions from Column 1.

A. The detective managed to ______ by finding the hidden evidence before the culprit could get rid of it. B. The company's new advertising campaign was meant to ______ to their competitors' sales. C. The hikers chose to ______ despite the heavy rain, refusing to turn back on their journey. D. Despite being heavily outnumbered, the soldiers vowed to defend their homeland and ______, refusing to surrender to the enemy forces.

II Read the highlighted words in the following sentence from the text.

A contingent of troops posted to Jammu and Kashmir was air-lifted into Srinagar...

There are many such collective nouns used in the context of armed forces. Match the collective nouns in Column 1 to their meanings in Column 2. You may refer to a dictionary.

[Image Description: An illustration showing three modes of military transport/combat vehicles: army transport trucks, a fighter aircraft in flight, and a naval warship on the sea.]

Now, fill in the blanks suitably with words from Column 1 in the table.

A. The commanding officer addressed the entire ______ of soldiers during the morning assembly. B. The admiral ordered the entire ______ to set sail for battle. C. The ______ of infantry advanced slowly through the dense forest. D. A ______ of fighter jets was sent to intercept the enemy planes.

III Read the following words from the text and fill in the blanks with the correct words by taking clues from the meanings given below in the box.

overwhelm overthrow overrun

Meanings

1. To take and seize control:

2. To invade or occupy an area in large numbers:

3. To flood or overpower someone or something emotionally:

Now, create a list of at least five other verbs that begin with 'over' and frame sentences of your own.

IV. In the following pairs of words, 'c' is used for nouns, while 's' is used for verbs.

• advice (noun) and advise (verb)

• practice (noun) and practise (verb)

• device (noun) and devise (verb)

• council (noun) and counsel (verb)

Now, fill in the blanks correctly with the words given in the brackets.

1. The teacher's (i) ________ is always helpful, and she continues to (ii) ________ students on their career choices. (advice/advise)

2. The musician believes that daily (i) ________ helps a lot, so she is always ready to (ii) ________ her harmonium lessons. (practice/practise)

3. The scientist uses a strange (i) ________ for experiments and plans to (ii) ________ new methods for his analysis. (device/devise)

4. The village (i) ________ met to discuss issues and decided to (ii) ________ the villagers on important matters. (council/counsel)

V Read the highlighted words in the following sentences from the text.

• ...ended with echoes of courage that serve as an inspiration...

• A contingent of troops posted to Jammu and Kashmir was airlifted into Srinagar...

• D Company with 90 soldiers was the last and they were expected to return by 2:00 p.m.

• The life and sacrifice of Major Somnath Sharma embody the highest ideals of duty, honour, and patriotism.

The highlighted words are either singular verbs or plural verbs. They are in agreement with the subject of the sentence. They take a singular verb when referring to the group as a whole, but plural when referring to the individual member. This is called Subject-Verb Agreement.

Now, fill in the blanks for the following sentences by choosing the correct verb given within brackets.

1. The bouquet of flowers (is/are) beautiful.

2. Neither the teacher nor the students (was/were) aware of the change in the schedule.

3. Each of the participants (has/have) submitted their projects on time.

4. The data collected by the researchers (shows/show) significant trends.

5. One of the players (was/were) injured during the match.

6. Either the children or their guardian (has/have) to attend the meeting.

7. A pair of shoes (is/are) missing from the rack.

8. Neither of the statements (is/are) true.

9. The members of the jury (has deliver/have delivered) their verdict to the court.

10. Mathematics (is/are) an interesting subject for many students.

VI Read the following passage and correct the incorrect usage of verbs. One example has been done for you.

A battalion of soldiers stand at attention as the National flag are raised.

A battalion of soldiers stands at attention as the National flag is raised.

Each soldier salute with pride while the commander and his assistants inspects the parade. The sound of marching feet echo through the air as a group of cadets prepare for their drill. Meanwhile, a convoy of military vehicles pass by, drawing cheers from the gathered crowd.

Let us listen

I You will listen to a talk about the Param Vir Chakra. As you listen, complete the sentences by filling in the blanks with one or two exact words or phrases you hear. (Transcript for teacher on page 98)

1. The Param Vir Chakra signifies the 'Wheel of the Ultimate ______

2. The Param Vir Chakra is awarded to someone who shows exemplary bravery while fighting with the ______

3. The Param Vir Chakra was introduced as a Gallantry Medal in 1947 by the ______

4. The design of the Param Vir Chakra is inspired by Sage Dadhichi, who was a ______

5. The state emblem in the centre of the Param Vir Chakra is surrounded by the Vajra and ______

Let us speak

I As the citizens of a nation, we all must fulfil our duty. In groups of 4–5, speak about how you propose to serve your nation.

You can choose from the themes given below:

[Image Description: An illustration showing five diverse school students sitting and collaborating around a classroom desk, including a student in a wheelchair.]

• Saving the environment

• Health and well-being

• Helping others

• Righteous conduct

• Maintaining cleanliness

• Serving the nation

You may use the sentence prompts given below to organise what you speak about.

• I believe one of the best ways to serve the nation is by...

• A small change we can make is... and it will have a big impact because...

• If everyone contributes by..., it can lead to...

• One of the biggest challenges we face is... and I propose we address it by...

• We can make a difference by working together as a team, if we...

• Serving the nation is not just about big actions; even small efforts like... matter.

Let us write

I A letter of enquiry is a formal letter written to seek detailed information about something the writer wants to know. For example, it can be used for joining a course, organising an event, knowing details about a trip, etc. The language used is formal and specific, with relevant queries.

Now, write a letter of enquiry. Your school wishes to organise a visit to a Memorial in your state/region. Write the letter to the incharge of that memorial requesting for information regarding available dates for visits, the duration of the tour, any entry fees, and guidelines for student groups.

Follow the given layout. Use the cues given below to draft the letter.

(Sender's address)

(Date)

(Receiver's address)

Subject: Enquiry about a School Visit to a Memorial

Dear Sir,

(Body of the letter)

Yours faithfully,

(Name)

Let us explore

I Out of twenty-one PVC awardees, Major Somnath Sharma was the first recipient of the PVC, and Captain Vikram Batra was the last recipient of the PVC, the highest gallantry award.

Captain Vikram Batra, is popularly remembered as the “Shershah of Kargil”. His iconic success signal was ‘Yeh Dil Mange More’. Captain Vikram Batra, the D Company commander was tasked to capture Point 5140 on 20 June 1999, which he did with exemplary courage. After Point 5140 was captured, 13 JAK RIF was tasked to capture Point 4875. On 07 July 1999, Captain Batra led the assault from the front and engaged in a physical fight with the enemy. He killed five enemy soldiers at point blank range and himself sustained serious injuries. Despite his injuries, his dauntless determination inspired his men to clear the enemy from a dominating position. Later, he succumbed to his injuries. His fearless determination and leadership encouraged his company men to avenge his death and finally captured Point 4875.

[Image Description: A photograph showing the bronze bust of Param Vir Chakra Awardee Captain Vikram Batra installed at the National War Memorial in Delhi surrounded by green trees.]

A bust of Param Vir Chakra Awardee Captain Vikram Batra at the National War Memorial in Delhi. (Source: National War Memorial)

His inspiring leadership, dedication to duty, and steadfast love for his country continue to be an inspiration for the younger generation. He attended the call of duty with absolute disregard for his personal safety. He was awarded the Param Vir Chakra, (Posthumously).

II Gallantry awards in India are given to military personnel and others for displaying extraordinary courage in the line of duty.

Some of the gallantry awards in India are:

• Param Vir Chakra: The highest military award in India, awarded for the most conspicuous bravery in the presence of the enemy.

• Maha Vir Chakra: The second-highest military award in India, awarded for acts of gallantry in the presence of the enemy.

• Vir Chakra: Awarded for acts of gallantry in the presence of the enemy.

Find out more about gallantry awards.

III The Indian government has been steadfast in its initiatives to boost the representation of women in the Indian Armed Forces. These women have been serving the nation selflessly and with pride. Find out the key roles of women in the Indian Army. Share the information with your classmates and teacher.

IV VEER SURENDRA SAI

Veer Surendra Sai, an Indian revolutionary and a great freedom fighter from Sambalpur, Odisha He made significant contribution to the Indian Independence struggle through his prolonged and tenacious resistance against British colonial rule, particularly in the sambalpur region. He also fought for the indigenous people and against the imposition of British administrative and land revenue system. His efforts significantly delayed British control over western Odisha. He is hounoured in odisha

[Image Description: A commemorative postage stamp of India depicting freedom fighter Veer Surendra Sai (वीर सुरेन्द्र साय / VEER SURENDRA SAI) valued at 50 paise.]

through institutions like the Veer Surendra Sai University of Technology (VSSUT) and hospitals named after him. He is also recognised with a postal stamp in his honour and a statue installed at the premises of the parliament of India. His bravery and dedication to the cause of freedom have earned him the title “Veer” (brave) and made him a folk hero of odisha.

Source: https://en.wikipedia.org.

V Make a list of the patriotic songs in any language, including songs from your region. Share the songs with your classmates and teacher.