Major Somnath Sharma: The First Param Vir Chakra Awardee

Many of us who were born in early 80s or before, might remember 1988 Doordarshan serial “Param Veer Chakra”. I was profoundly moved by it and the very first episode, which depicted the heroic story of Major Somnath Sharma, deeply inspired me. His bravery and sacrifice during the Battle of Badgam have stayed with me ever since, and I felt compelled to share his legacy with a wider audience.

 

Major Somnath Sharma was born on January 31, 1923, in Dadh, a village near Kangra in Himachal Pradesh. He hailed from a distinguished military family; his father, Major General Amar Nath Sharma, was a senior officer in the Indian Army, and his brothers also served in the armed forces, with Lt. General Surindar Nath Sharma and General Vishwa Nath Sharma both attaining high ranks. This environment imbued Somnath with a strong sense of duty and patriotism from an early age.

 

Educated at Sherwood College, Nainital, and later at the Prince of Wales Royal Indian Military College (now Rashtriya Indian Military College), Dehradun, Somnath Sharma was commissioned into the 8th Battalion of the 19th Hyderabad Regiment (later the 4th Battalion of the Kumaon Regiment) on February 22, 1942. His early military career saw him actively engaged in World War II, serving in the Arakan Operations in Burma (now Myanmar), where he was recognized for his leadership and bravery.

 

In the tumultuous period following India's independence in 1947, the country faced its first major conflict with Pakistan over the princely state of Jammu and Kashmir. Pakistan aimed to seize Kashmir by sending tribal raiders, supported by its regular forces, to annex the region. As the situation in Kashmir grew dire, Major Sharma's battalion was among the first to be airlifted to Srinagar on October 31, 1947, to protect the valley from falling into enemy hands.

 

On November 3, 1947, Major Sharma's company was tasked with defending the strategic Srinagar airfield from the advancing enemy at Badgam, approximately 16 kilometers from Srinagar. The importance of this mission was paramount; losing the airfield would have allowed the enemy to gain a significant foothold in the region. Despite being heavily outnumbered, with his company of 50 men facing a force of 500 tribal raiders and Pakistani soldiers, Major Sharma exhibited exceptional courage and leadership.

 

The battle commenced in the early morning hours, with the enemy launching a fierce assault. Major Sharma's company faced intense fire, and the situation quickly became critical. Demonstrating exemplary bravery, Sharma moved from position to position, rallying his men and coordinating their defense. Despite suffering a severe hand injury, he refused evacuation and continued to fight, effectively directing his troops and maintaining their morale under overwhelming odds.

 

In a desperate bid to stem the enemy advance, Major Sharma utilized every available resource, including coordinating artillery support. His actions were pivotal in delaying the enemy, buying crucial time for Indian reinforcements to arrive and secure the airfield. His leadership and valor were instrumental in preventing a strategic disaster for India at a critical juncture in the conflict.

 

Tragically, during the battle, Major Sharma was struck by mortar fire and succumbed to his injuries. His last message to his brigade headquarters encapsulated his indomitable spirit: "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 last round."

 

In recognition of his extraordinary bravery, leadership, and sacrifice, Major Somnath Sharma was posthumously awarded the Param Vir Chakra, India's highest military decoration for gallantry in the face of the enemy. He became the first recipient of this prestigious honor, setting a standard of valor and dedication that continues to inspire the Indian Armed Forces and the nation.

 

The story of Major Somnath Sharma is not just one of valor, but of unwavering dedication to duty, even in the face of overwhelming odds. His life reminds us that true heroism lies in selfless service and the courage to stand firm in defense of one's country. As we reflect on his legacy, let us draw inspiration from his example and strive to embody the same spirit of resilience and patriotism in our own lives. Major Sharma’s sacrifice is a poignant reminder that the freedoms we enjoy today are built on the courage and sacrifices of those who came before us.