KnowYourHeroes
19/03/2021
Param Vir chakra is the highest military decoration awarded for displaying distinguished acts of valor during wartime. Let us know more about the 21 Param Vir Chakra awardees.
Major Somnath Sharma
1st winner of Param Vir Chakra 4 Kumaon | Badgam, Kashmir
| November 3, 1947
“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.” – Major Somnath Sharma
On 3 November 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 3 November and took up a position south of Badgam at 1100hours. The enemy, estimated at about 500 attacked his company position from three sides; the company began to sustain heavy casualties. He led his company from the forefront with plastered left hand, his company fought the enemies until they were completely surrounded. A mortar shell landed right in the middle of the ammunition resulting in an explosion that killed him. His leadership, gallantry and tenacious defence were such that his men were inspired to fight the enemy by seven to one, six hours after this gallant officer had been killed.
Naik Jadunath Singh
1 Rajput | Taindhara, Naushera, Kashmir February 6, 1948
Naik Jadunath Singh, a wrestling champion in his Khajuri village of Shahjahanpur district in Uttar Pradesh, enrolled in the Rajput Regiment on 21 Nov 1941 at the Regimental center Fatehgarh. After completing his training he joined 1 Rajput and also took part in World War II. After six years of service, he was promoted to the rank of Lance Naik. In Dec 1947, Naik Jadunath Singh’s unit, 1 Rajput was deployed in J & K to take part in the ongoing war with Pakistan after it had attacked Kashmir in Oct 1947. Battle of Taindhar: 06 Feb 1948 On 28 Oct 1947, India officially declared that it would help J & K against the attack of Pakistan after Maharaja Hari Singh of Kashmir. Pakistan made simultaneous attacks on many fronts and Taindhar was one such front in Naushera sector. It had great importance for the enemy as it could have paved the way for them to take over the control of Srinagar airfield. He commanded the picket No.2 , attacked the enemy and took them by surprise, he displayed great leadership and valor but due to being outnumbered, he lost all his men after enemy’s 2nd attack. Despite being alone and wounded, he charged the enemy, two enemy bullets pierced his head and chest and Naik Jadunath Singh was martyred. Posthumously, he was honored with “Param Vir Chakra” for his valor and leadership.
2nd Lt Rama Raghoba Rane
Bombay Engineers | Naushera-Rajouri Road April 8-11, 1948
On 8 April 1948, 2nd Lieutenant Rama Raghoba Rane was ordered to be in charge of the mine and roadblock clearing party at mile 26 on the Naushera to Rajauri road which passes through very hilly country. At 1100 hrs on that date near Nadpur South just as 2nd Lieutenant Rane and his party were waiting near the tanks to start the work of clearing the mines ahead, the enemy started heavy mortaring of the area, with the result that two men of the party were killed and five, including himself, wounded. But he started the work of clearing the roadblock to pave way for the tanks to reach their position. For the next four days, the enemy kept shelling mortar on him and his company but disregard to his life he continued to clear the roadblock. As they went ahead clearing the problems kept on piling, the roads became steeper and alike snake on hilly region. 2nd Lt. Rama Raghoba kept the determination and blasted his way through. For his gallant efforts and leadership, he was honored with “Param Vir Chakra”
Company Haviladar Major Piru Singh
6 Rajputana Rifles | Tithwal sector, J&K July 18, 1948
Company Havildar Major Piru Singh Shekhawat was born on 20th May 1918 in the village of Rampura Beri in Jhunjhunu district of Rajasthan, into a great Rajput military family. His family had a great tradition of serving in Rajputana Rifles, Piru Singh also joined 6RR on 20th May 1936 and later went on to serve British Indian Army. J&K Operations, 18th July 1948: Pakistani raiders had captured the village of Tithwal in the hills of Kashmir and also pushed to seize control over the positions across the river Kishanganga. To counter them, the British Indian Army dispatched the 6RR into Tithwal. CHM Piru Singh was leading the front sector. When the enemy fire rained heavily upon them, CHM Piru Singh advanced ahead to take out the MMG posts. Along the way, a grenade struck him and half his face was bleeding. His ammunition was spent and he was gravely injured, yet he did not back down. While emerging from the second enemy post, he was struck in the head with a bullet and was seen dropping over the edge of the enemy trench. For his profound bravery, extreme devotion and self-sacrifice to his motherland, CHM Piru Singh was given the nation’s highest gallantry award, “Param Vir Chakra” posthumously.
Lance Naik Karam Singh
1 Sikh | Tithwal sector, J&K October 13, 1948
Honorary Captain Karam Singh was born on 15 Sep 1915, at Bhaliawala village in Sangrur district of Punjab. Son of a farmer Sardar Uttam Singh, Karam Singh always wanted to live a life of thrill and adventure since his childhood. His uncle was a JCO in the army and the young boy Karam Singh wanted to follow in his footsteps as he was impressed by his army life. During World War II, Hon Capt Singh faced Japanese soldiers at the Burma Front in 1945. He fought in the deep jungles of Burma against the formidable force of the Japanese. For his astute bravery and skill, he was awarded the gallantry medal of Britain, the “Military Medal” on 14th March 1944.
Indo Pak War , Oct 1948: During the J&K operations, the Indian Army made substantial gains in the Tithwal sector. Subsequently, on 23rd May, they seized control of the Tithwal sector. The Pakistani army had no choice but to abandon the mission. They were however far from letting Tithwal go without a fight. During this time, the then Lance Naik Karam Singh was commanding a forward outpost in the area. The enemy troops heavily outnumbered the Sikh Regiment and launched no less than 8 attacks on their post. Eventually, their ammunition supply ran out and at this point, Lance Naik Singh joined the main company position. He was wounded but did not lose hope and helped save two of his comrades. He got grievously wounded while charging on the enemies, with his bravery he inspired his troops to fight and demoralize the enemy. For his gallant bravery, he was honored with “Param Vir Chakra”. He was the first non-posthumous recipient of the award.
Captain Gurbachan Singh Salaria
3/1 Gorkha Rifles | Elizabethville, Katanga, Congo December 5, 1961
Capt Gurbachan Singh Salaria was born on 29th Nov 1935 in Jamwal village near Shakargarh( erstwhile united Punjab) and subsequently his family moved to Jangal village in Gudaspur district of Punjab. He joined King George Royal Indian Military College (Now known as Rashtriya Military School) Bangalore in 1946 and later moved to the King George Royal Military College Jalandhar (Now Rashtriya Military School Chail in Himachal Pradesh). Capt Gurbachan then went on to join the 9th batch of NDA and subsequently the IMA. In 1957, he was commissioned into 1 Gorkha Rifles, an infantry regiment known for its fearless soldiers and numerous battle exploits. He was part of the 99 Infantry brigade that India sent to congo for UN operation. Congo Ops, 05 Dec 1961: Capt Salaria’s unit, 3/1Gorkha Rifles was deployed in the conflict ridden southern part of Congo. His unit was tasked for removing the roadblocks, However, Capt Salaria’s platoon met strong opposition from a large number of rebels armed with automatic weapons. Capt Salaria decided to take them head on and launched a deadly assault leading his men with the Gorkha cry, ” Jai Mahakali, Ayo Gorkhali” meaning “Victory to Mahakali, Gorkhas are here”. He moved on the battlefield exemplifying the motto of his regiment, which says, “Kafir hunu bhanda marnu ramro” meaning “It is better to die than to be a coward”. However during the heavy exchange of fire he got a burst of automatic fire into his neck and fell down. He later succumbed to his injuries and was martyred. Capt Gurbachan Singh Salaria was given the nation’s highest gallantry award, “Param Vir Chakra” for his cold courage, unfaltering leadership and supreme sacrifice. He became the first and the only recipient of this coveted award given to a soldier in an UN operation.
Major Dhan Singh Thapa
1/8 Gorkha Rifles | Ladakh October 21, 1962
Lt Col Dhan Singh Thapa was born on 28 April 1928 in Shimla in Himachal Pradesh to Nepali parents. He was commissioned into the 8th Gorkha Rifles on 28th August 1949. Indo-China, Oct 1962: During 1962, the Indian Army had established a number of posts in Ladakh as part of the forward policy to counter the Chinese who had been establishing various posts in Ladakh. Sirijap 1 was one such post being manned by soldiers of 1/8 GR. Situated north of the Pangong Lake in Ladakh, it was one of the vital posts for defending the Chushul airfield. Only 28 soldiers were manning Sirijap 1 post under the command of Maj Dhan Singh Thapa. In the wee hours of 20th October, the Chinese attacked the post with heavy artillery and mortar fire. The attack went on for more than two hours and by the end of the charge, the area had been set ablaze and communication lines had been damaged. The Gorkhas fought back and the enemy suffered heavy casualties. Chinese launched 3rd and final attack on the Indian troops backed by tanks. Maj Thapa’s post had already been weakened by the previous waves of attacks but they fought on till the last bit of their ammunition. Eventually Chinese managed to run over the post with their superior weapons and numerical superiority. Maj Thapa and his remaining soldiers were captured and taken as Prisoner of War.Maj Thapa was believed to have been ‘killed in action’ and was awarded the nation’s highest gallantry award, “Param Vir Chakra” posthumously. Chinese made him undergo a series of punishments for causing many casualties to their forces and for not making statements against India. He was later released in May 1963 and resumed his duty, he got promoted to the rank of Lt Col. He retired as Lt Col and passed away at the age of 77 on 5th September 2005.
Subedar Joginder Singh
1 Sikh | Tawang, Arunachal October 20-23, 1962
Subedar Joginder Singh was born on 26th September 1921 in Mahakalan village in Moga district of Punjab into an agricultural Saini Sikh family. He joined the British Army on 28 Sep 1936 and was recruited into 1 Sikh of the famed Sikh Regiment known for its courageous soldiers and numerous battle honours. As a young soldier, he participated in World War II on Burma front and then also took part in Indo-Pak war of 1947-48 in Srinagar. Indo-China War, 23 Oct 1962: A fierce battle was fought at Tongpen La, near Bum La, Tawang in 1962. This area earlier known as the North East Frontier Agency (NEFA) is now the state of Arunachal Pradesh. As the war with China became imminent, 1 Sikh regiment was also called from Jaipur. It was an arduous journey for the soldiers; crossing the jungles to Tenga valley, winding paths of Bomdila and a climb down to Dirang, to the frozen Sela lake and finally to Tawang. Sub Joginder Singh was the platoon in-charge and was a strong man with steely resolve. Equipped with superior arms and ammunition and having readied for the war for close to three years, they easily overran the Indian troops and made way to Tawang where Sub Joginder Singh and his men had established their post. The Chinese soldiers began to collect at the other bank of the stream and to dig trenches. The attack on Sub Joginder Singh’s post became imminent and he prepared his troops for the fateful day. It was on 23 October 1962 at 5:30 a.m. when the Chinese attacked the Tawang post. Sub Joginder Singh’s platoon of 1 Sikh stood ready for the counter-attack. They fought fiercely and the enemy was taken aback with many casualties on their side. However, in no time the enemy had unleashed another attack with more energy and troops. The battlefield resounded with the war cry, “Jo bole so nihaal, Sat Sri Akaal”. Sub Joginder Singh handled the counterattack on Chinese with courage and patience. He knew there were very few soldiers on his side and also arms and ammunition were scarce. The final wave of the Chinese attack was more forceful and by that time Sub Joginder Singh had lost most of his men and was badly injured too. But he continued his attack by manning a light machine gun and killing enemy troops. When the ammunition with the platoon also exhausted, in a rare display of courage, Sub Joginder Singh and his men emerged from their bunkers with bayonets fixed on their guns, shouting the Sikh battle cry, “Bole So Nihal, Sat Shiri Akaal”. They fell upon the advancing Chinese and bayoneted many to death. Finally, better weapons and numerical superiority of the Chinese prevailed and Sub Joginder Singh was captured as a POW after this epic battle. Sub Joginder Singh led his men and fought with grit, energy, and dedication. He kept the fighting spirit of his men ignited till he fell down, badly injured, covered under the blanket of snow. Sub Joginder Singh was awarded the Param Vir Chakra for devotion to duty and inspiring leadership and bravery of highest order.
Major Shaitan Singh
13 Kumaon Regiment | Rezang La, Chusul sector, Ladakh November 18, 1962
Major Shaitan Singh Bhati was born on December 1, 1924, in Jodhpur, Rajasthan to a military family. Son of an Army officer Lt Col Hem Singh Bhati, Maj Shaitan Singh was commissioned into the Kumaon Regiment on 01 Aug 1949. The Indo-China war of 1962, offered Maj Shaitan Singh the opportunity to show his valour in Chushul sector of Ladakh. The Chushul sector which was at a distance of 15 miles from the border held great importance in the context of border dispute of Aksai Chin with China. During the war Maj Shaitan Singh’s unit was deployed at Rezang La post in that sector at a height of 17000 feet. Battle of Rezang La, 18 Nov 1962: In 1962, during the Sino-Indian War, the ‘C’ Company of the 13th Kumaon battalion, commanded by Maj Shaitan Singh, held a crucial position at Rezang La, a pass to the south-east of Chushul Valley in Ladakh (Jammu and Kashmir) at an altitude of a towering 5,000 metres. The Chinese advanced to attack the platoons No.7 and No.8. Both of them opened fire on the enemy with rifles, light machine guns, grenades and mortars, however, the artillery could not be used. The enemy soldiers suffered heavy casualties and only the boulders offered cover to some of the survivors. Soon after, about 350 Chinese troops commenced advancing to the position of platoon No.9 which then opened fire. Within minutes, the Chinese lost most of their men, resulting in an unsuccessful frontal attack. Following this, the Chinese engaged in a rear attack with 400 troops. Maj Shaitan Singh displayed exemplary leadership and bravery in the battle of Rezang La. He led his troops admirably and did not fear for his personal safety, moving from one platoon post to another and encouraging his men. While moving among the posts he was seriously wounded by a Chinese MMG, but that did not deter him. As two of his comrades were trying to evacuate him, the Chinese opened heavy machine gun fire on them. Maj Singh did not want to endanger their lives and ordered them to leave him. They placed him behind a boulder on the slopes of a hill, where he breathed his last, still gripping his weapon. The body of Maj Shaitan Singh was found in the same place behind the boulder, after three months in that snow clad region. It was flown to Jodhpur and cremated with full military honours. Maj Shaitan Singh was awarded Param Vir Chakra, the highest wartime gallantry medal, for his unfaltering courage, leadership and exemplary devotion to duty.
Lt. Col. A B Tarapore
17 Poona Horse | Phillora, Sialkot, Pakistan September 11-16, 1965
Lieutenant Colonel Ardeshir Burzorji Tarapore was born on 18 Aug 1923 in Mumbai. Lt Col Tarapore belonged to a the family of a great warrior, Ratanjiba who served in the army of Shivaji. On 01 Jan 1942, he was commissioned into 7th Hyderabad Infantry, but he wanted to serve in an armoured regiment. The Battle of Chawinda & Phillora, 11-16 Sep 1965: After Pakistan launched their “Operation Gibraltar”, the war with Pakistan was declared on 27 Aug 1956. As part of the retaliatory action plan, the Army chalked out a strategy to capture Chawinda and Phillora in Sialkot sector. The area of Chawinda was occupied by two regiments of Pakistani armour and infantry. On 11 Sep, 17 Horse under the command of Lt Col Tarapore planned a surprise attack on Phillora from the rear. An intense battle was fought between two sides which resulted in the destruction of 13 tanks. Pakistani left Chawinda and Phillora was captured. Lt Col Tarapore fought brilliantly but was seriously injured in the battle. On 13/14 Sep 1965, Lt Col Tarapore though still wounded launched an infantry attack accompanied by 17 Horse and 9 Garhwal battalion. Wazirali was captured on 14 Sep but Lt Col Tarapore pressed on with his attack on enemy forces hiding in the areas of Butur and Dograndi. Once again in a daring attack Lt Col Tarapore destroyed six enemy tanks and captured Jassoran along with 9 Dogra Bn and Butur & Dograndi along with 8 Garhwal Rifles by 16 Sep. Inspired by his leadership, the regiment attacked the enemy armour and destroyed approximately sixty Pakistani Army tanks, suffering only nine tank casualties. However, when Lt Col Tarapore was posing a stiff challenge an enemy shell set his tank ablaze engulfing him in flames. Lt Col Tarapore was martyred in the battle field leading from the front like a true military leader. Lt Col A B Tarapore was given the nation’s highest gallantry award, “Param Vir Chakra” for his outstanding courage, leadership, indomitable spirit and supreme sacrifice.
Company Quartermaster Havildar Abdul Hamid
4 Grenadiers | Cheema, Khem Karan September 10, 1965
Company Quarter Master Havildar Abdul Hamid was born at Dhamupur village of Ghazipur District of Uttar Pradesh on 1 July 1933. He joined the army in the year 1953 at Varanasi at the age of 20 years. After his training at the Grenadiers Regimental Centre at Nasirabad, he was posted to 4 Grenadiers battalion in 1955. Initially he served in a rifle company and was then posted to a recoil-less platoon. During his service, CQMH Abdul Hamid served with his battalion in Agra, Amritsar, Jammu & Kashmir, Delhi, NEFA and Ramgarh. During the Sino-Indian War of 1962, his battalion was part of the 7th Infantry Brigade and participated in the battle of Namka Chu against the Chinese. Indo Pak War, Khem Karan Sector(10 Sep 1965): By early Sep 1965, in the Lahore sector of operations, 4 Mountain Division of India had fallen back to the Khem Kharan area. In the new defence plan of the Division, 4 Grenadiers, along with three other battalions of the division formed a defence line between Assal Uttar and Cheema villages on the Khem Karan-Bhikhiwind-Amritsar road and the Patti axis. 4 Grenadiers were on the northern flank in the general area of Cheema village. The battalion had already been in combat for more than 24 hours when it began digging trenches and weapon pits in its defensive positions. The area they were defending was covered with cotton and sugarcane fields and the battalion was able to camouflage themselves. The 106 mm recoil-less guns were deployed along the Khem Karan-Amritsar road. On 8 Sept 1965, the enemy made repeated probing attacks on the 4th Grenadiers position. The battalion’s recoil-less weapons and automatics were effectively sited by CQMH Abdul Hamid’s company. CQMH Abdul Hamid mounted on the passenger side of his jeep and under the cover of the sugarcane field, charged the RCL gun on the enemy tanks. He destroyed two Patton tanks the same day and forced the men of four more tanks to abandon their vehicles. On 10 Sept 1965, a battalion of Pakistani armour supported by Patton tanks attacked the position of 4th Grenadiers. Soon, the enemy tanks had penetrated the forward company positions. The intense enemy shelling and tank fire did not deter him from launching a blistering attack against the enemy. He fired continuously and managed to knock out three Patton tanks one after another. But as he was preparing to strike the next tank, his jeep was struck by a 90 mm enemy shell blowing it to bits. For his remarkable achievement, exemplary bravery and courage, CQMH Hamid was awarded the nation’s highest gallantry award, “Param Vir Chakra” posthumously.
Lance Naik Albert Ekka
14 Guards | Gangasagar, 6 1/2km west of Agartala December 4, 1971
Lance Naik Albert Ekka, was born on 27 December 1942 in Zari Village in Gumla district of Bihar (now Jharkhand). he joined the army on 27th Dec 1962 at the age of 2o years. He was recruited into 14th Battalion of Brigade of the Guards, a mechanized infantry regiment known for its fearless soldiers and various battle exploits. By 1971, Lance Naik Albert Ekka had put in about 9 years of service and had served in numerous counter insurgency operations in the North East region. When the 1971 Indo-Pak war broke out, Lance Naik Albert Ekka’s unit got involved in the battle of Gangasagar, which was very crucial in paving the way for the advance of Indian Armed Forces towards their target in Bangladesh. Indo Pak War, 03 Dec 1971: During the Indo-Pak War in 1971, the 14 Guards was dispatched to capture a Pakistani position at Gangasagar about 6 Kms west of Agartala in Brahmanbarhia district of what was then East Pakistan. It was located on a major railway link to Dhaka and owing to its strategic position was well-fortified position and was heavily mined too. But this position was critical to the Indian Army for the capture of Akhaura on the way to Dhaka. So 14 Guards launched an attack on enemy positions at on the night of 03 December 1971. Lance Naik Albert Ekka went with the left forward company of the battalion in the attack. The Indian troops were subjected to intense shelling and small arms fire by the enemy. Lance Naik Ekka spotted an enemy light machine gun firing from a bunker causing heavy casualties. Unmindful of personal safety, he charged at the bunker, bayoneted two soldiers and captured the bunker post. He was seriously injured in the exchange, but that did not stop him. Epitomizing the motto of his regiment, the Brigade of the Guards, “Pahla Hamesha Pahla” meaning ,”First Always First”, he continued his advance with his company, securing bunker after bunker. His daring action helped his company in successfully driving the enemy away from Gangasagar. The fall of Gangasagar forced the enemy to vacate Akhaura and consequently the Indian troops soon were on their victorious march towards Dhaka. Lance Naik Albert Ekka was martyred and his heroic action in the battle of Gangasagar changed the course of the war in India’s favour. Lance Naik Albert Ekka was given the nation’s highest gallantry award, “Param Vir Chakra” for his cold courage, unyielding fighting spirit and supreme sacrifice.
Flying Officer Nirmaljit Singh Sekhon
No.18 "Flying Bullets" Squadron | Srinagar December 14, 1971
Flying Officer Nirmal Jit Singh Sekhon was born on 17 July 1945 in the village of Issewal in Ludhiana of Punjab. He was commissioned into the IAF on 04 June 1967 as a fighter pilot. After completing his rigorous training , Fg Offr Nirmal Jit joined No 18 Squadron, known as “Flying Bullets” in Oct 1968. Indo-Pak War, 14 Dec 1971: During the Indo-Pakistani War of 1971, Flying officer Nirmaljit Singh Sekhon was a pilot of a Gnat detachment (18 Squadron, known as “The Flying bullets”) based at Srinagar. In accordance with the international agreement dating back to 1948, no air defence aircraft were based at Srinagar, until hostilities broke out with Pakistan. On 14 December 1971, Srinagar airfield was attacked by six Pakistan Air Force F-86 jets of 26 Sqn from PAF base Peshawar. As soon as the first aircraft attacked, he rolled for take-off as No. 2 in a two-Gnat formation, with Flt Lt Ghumman in lead, just as the first bombs were falling on the runway. By the time the runway was fit for take-off, the six enemy aircraft were overheard, and attack on the airfield was in progress. Nevertheless, he engaged a pair of attacking Sabres. In the ensuing air battle, he made a direct hit on one Sabre and set another ablaze. The latter was seen heading away towards Rajauri, trailing smoke. Fg Offr Sekhon, after being hit, was advised to return to the base. It is believed that he had flown in straight, wings level for some time, then going inverted, plummeting down, probably due to the failure of the control system. He attempted a last-minute ejection, which did not prove successful, as his canopy was seen to fly off. His aircraft crashed and he was martyred but his sacrifice did not go in vain. The Sabre jets, unable to complete their attack on the town and its airfield, immediately retreated and fled the scene. Fg Offr Sekhon was the first officer of the IAF to have received the nation’s highest gallantry award , “Param Vir Chakra” and continues to be remembered as one of the greatest air warriors of the IAF.
Second Lt. Arun Khetarpal
17 Poona Horse, 47 Infantry Brigade | Shakargarh sector December 16, 1971
Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal was born on 14th October 1950 in Pune into a military family. He joined the NDA in June 1967. Later on, he went to join the IMA and was commissioned into the 17 Poona Horse on 13 June 1971. Just six months later, the war with Pakistan broke out on 03 Dec 1971 and 2nd Lt Arun Khetarpal was undergoing the Young Officers’ Course at Ahmednagar at that time. He was recalled from the course and soon joined his unit to take part in the famous “Battle of Basantar” in the Shakargarh sector. Indo-Pak War, 16 Dec 1971: On 16 December, Pakistani armour launched the first of their counter-attacks under the cover of a smokescreen at Jarpal, targeting the ‘B’ Squadron. The commander of the squadron urgently called for reinforcements. 2nd Lt. Arun Khetarpal, who was in ‘A’ squadron and was stationed close by, responded promptly, along with the rest of his regiment. Khetarpal rushed to meet the Pakistani armour and launched his ferocious counter attack. With his troops, he was able to subdue the enemy advance with his tanks successfully. However during the fierce tank battle. His tank was hit by enemy fire, but he did not abandon the tank, instead he fought on. His final words over the radio to a superior officer who had ordered him to abandon his burning tank were, “No Sir, I will not abandon my tank. My Main gun is still working and I will get these bastards.” Then he set about destroying the remaining enemy tanks. The last enemy tank, which he shot, was barely 100 metres from his position. At this stage, his tank received a second hit and the shell entered into the tank through its cupola ripping his stomach. 2nd Lt Arun Khetarpal met a hero’s death, trying to deny the Pakistani Army the intended breakthrough. 2nd Lt Arun Khetarpal was given the nation’s highest gallantry award, “Param Vir Chakra” for his cold courage, unfaltering leadership and supreme sacrifice. At the young age of 21 yrs performed an act of courage and self-sacrifice that went far beyond the call of duty.
Major Hoshiar Singh
Grenadiers Regiment | Shakargarh sector December 17, 1971
Colonel Hoshiar Singh was born on 5th May 1937 in a village of Sisana on Rohtak-Sonipat road. On 30th June 1963, Col Hoshiar Singh was commissioned in the 3rd Grenadiers Regiment and was first posted in the North East Frontier Agency (NEFA). As a young officer he also participated in Indo-Pak war of 1965, but it was 1971 war where he proved his mettle and won the revered Param Vir Chakra. Indo Pak War, 15-16 Dec 1971: During the Indo-Pak war of 1971, the Grenadiers regiment was spearheading the Shakargarh area under the leadership of Lieutenant Colonel V.P.Airy. On 15th December, Col Hoshiar Singh’s( Major at that time) regiment, the 3rd Grenadiers was assigned the task of establishing a bridgehead across the Basantar River in the Shakargarh Sector. Although this was not an easy task, as the river had deep minefields on both sides and was heavily guarded by the Pakistani army. The enemy responded with three counterattacks on 16 December 1971, two of them supported by Armour. Despite the heavy bombardment and tank fire, his troops fought bravely. On 17 December 1971, the enemy made yet another attack with a battalion backed by heavy artillery fire. The attack was successfully combated and the enemy retreated leaving behind 85 dead including their Commanding Officer and three other officers. Though seriously wounded, Major Hoshiar Singh refused to be evacuated till the ceasefire. Major Hoshiar Singh was awarded the nation’s highest gallantry award, “Param Vir Chakra” for his absolute bravery and steadfast devotion in the line of duty. He retired from the army as Colonel and left for his heavenly abode on 6th December 1998.
Naib Subedar Bana Singh
J&K Light Infantry | Siachen | 1987
Bana Singh was born into a Sikh family in Kadyal in Jammu and Kashmir on 6 January 1949. He enrolled in the Indian Army on 6 January 1969 into the 8th Battalion of the Jammu and Kashmir Light Infantry (JAK LI). He was trained at the High Altitude Warfare School in Gulmarg and also at another school at Sonamarg. He has seen action in two operations i.e. Operation Meghdoot and Operation Rajiv. OPERATION RAJIV: Operation Rajiv was an Indian Army operation to capture the highest peak in the Siachen area in 1987. The Pakistanis had captured an important position, which they called "Quaid post". The post was located at a height of 6500 metres on the highest peak in the Siachen Glacier area. From this feature, the Pakistanis could snipe at Indian army positions since the height gave a clear view of the entire Saltoro range and Siachen glacier. Naib Subedar Bana Singh was posted in Siachen on 20 April 1987, as part of the 8th JAK LI regiment, which was given the task of capturing the Quaid Post. On 29 May, a JAK LI patrol led by Second lieutenant Rajiv Pande made at an unsuccessful attempt of capturing the post, resulting in deaths of 10 Indian soldiers. After initial failures, the 5-member team led by Nb Sub Bana Singh successfully captured the Quaid post on 26 June 1987. Nb Sub Bana Singh and his fellow soldiers, including Chuni Lal, climbed the steep 457 m high wall of ice. The team approached the Quaid Post from an unexpected direction, using a longer and more difficult approach than the other teams. There was a blizzard, resulting in poor visibility, which gave cover to the Indian soldiers. After reaching the top, Nb Sub Bana Singh found that there was a single Pakistani bunker. He lobbed a grenade into the bunker and closed the door, killing those inside. On 26 January 1988, Nb Sub Bana Singh was awarded the Param Vir Chakra, the highest wartime gallantry medal in India for his bravery during Operation Rajiv. The peak which he captured was renamed Bana Top in his honour. At the time of the Kargil War, he was the only PVC awardee who was still serving in the Army.
Major Ramaswamy Parameswaram
Mahar Regiment | Sri Lanka (Operation Pawan) November 25, 1987
Major Ramaswamy Parameswaran, was born on 13 September 1946, in Bombay, Maharashtra. He joined the OTA in Chennai and passed out on 16 June 1972. He was commissioned into 15 Mahar of the famed Mahar Regiment of Indian Army and served there for eight years. During his service with 15 Mahar and 5 Mahar battalions, Maj Parameswaran took part in a number of counter insurgency operations in the North East region and soon earned a reputation for possessing steely resolve and unfaltering leadership skills. Affectionately called “Parry Sahib”by his men, Maj Parameswaran was always at the forefront during the challenging missions undertaken by his unit. When Op Pawan was launched Maj Parameswaran was handpicked to serve with 8 Mahar battalion, one of the first units to land in Sri Lanka in 1987. Op Pawan, 25 Nov 1987: Maj Parameswaran’s unit was part of 54 Infantry Division that was tasked to oversee the implementation of Indo-Sri Lanka accord signed on 29 July 1987. After the induction of Indian forces in Aug 1987, the militants were supposed to surrender but the dreaded LTTE backed out and unleashed war on Indian forces. Maj Parameswaran and his team of about 30 soldiers had inadvertently walked into the militants’ hideout and were facing heavy firing from all directions. Maj parameswaran fought fiercely and startled the militants. However, an HMG burst from a sniper sitting atop a coconut tree caught Maj Parameswaran on his left wrist, nearly severing his hand. Undeterred, he charged at the militant closest to him, snatching his weapon and shooting him down. However just then another HMG burst hit him in the chest. In his pocket he was carrying a Mini Clear pistol and its rounds to use it for sending a success signal. They burst with the HMG hit and Maj Parameswaran collapsed on the ground and was martyred. His soldiers though shocked by the loss of their gritty commander got inspired and succeeded in beating back the militants. Maj Ramaswamy Parameswaran was given the nation’s highest gallantry award, “Param Vir Chakra” for his cold courage, indomitable fighting spirit and supreme sacrifice. He became the sole recipient of PVC award from the IPKF operation in Sri Lanka and the first from OTA Chennai to get the coveted award.
Captain Vikram Batra
13 J&K Rifles | July 7, 1999
Captain Vikram Batra was born on 9th September 1974 and hailed from Bandla Gaon in Palampur district of Himachal Pradesh. While in college Capt Batra joined NCC and was awarded the best NCC Cadet (Air Wing) in the North Zone. He joined the Jessore Company of Manekshaw Battalion and was commissioned into 13 JAK Rifles, an infantry Regiment well known for its intrepid soldiers and numerous battle exploits. After being commissioned, he got posted to Sopore in Baramulla district of J&K as his first assignment. By April 1999, his unit had completed its field tenure and was preparing to move to its peace location. But the detection of large scale intrusion by the Pakistani forces in Kargil sector in early May 1999 changed the operational scenario and the unit’s move to its peace location was cancelled. Kargil War, June-July 1999: As part of Op Vijay, then Lt Vikram Batra’s unit 13 JAK Rif got deployed in Drass area of Kargil in June 1999 under the operational command of 56 Infantry Brigade. After the capture of Tololing Top in Drass by 2 Raj Rif battalion, 13 JAK Rif was given the responsibility of capturing another militarily significant feature called Point 5140. This peak was one of the most treacherous and crucial peaks in Drass region and was heavily defended by the enemy forces. The Delta Company led by Lt Vikram Batra and Bravo Company led by Lt Sanjeev Singh Jamwal were assigned this task of capturing the Point 5140 in a daring night attack. Lt Batra and five of his men climbed up and after reaching the top lobbed two grenades at the machine gun posts. Lt Batra alone killed three soldiers in close combat and despite being badly injured during the exchange, he regrouped his men and continued the mission. At 4:35 am on 20 Jun 1999, Lt Batra sent the radio message, “Chanakya …it’s Shershah reporting!! We’ve captured the post! Yeh Dil Maange More” , which later on became the catch-line for the Kargil War. The victory paved the way for a string of victories at Point 5100, Point 4700, Junction Peak and ‘Three Pimples’. the next task assigned was the capture of Point 4875. Lt Batra had been promoted to the rank of Capt by then based on his earlier exploits in Drass. Capt Batra and his 25 men from Delta Company commenced the attack on the night of 06 July 1999. The plan was to reach the ridge, storm the enemy and occupy the post by the first light on 07 July. But unfortunately the evacuation of one of the officers, Capt Navin Nagappa, who had a badly injured leg, took some time and they were still short of the target by first light. Capt Batra decided that even though it was daylight he and his comrades would attempt a direct assault. In a rare show of extraordinary courage and daredevilry Capt Batra assaulted the ledge and took the enemy by surprise. However during the exchange of fire Capt Batra got injured but he continued his charge with support fire from rest of his men and reached the mouth of the ledge. Having got a foothold on the ledge as he was planning his next move, he noticed one of his young soldiers lying in a pool of blood few feet away. He decided to move the injured soldier to safety along with his JCO Sub Raghunath Singh. But as he tried to do so he was hit by a sniper fire in the chest. He breathed his last, uttering the words, “Durga Mata Ki Jai” meaning “Victory to Goddess Durga”, the battle-cry of his Regiment. Spurred by Capt Batra’s extreme courage and supreme sacrifice, his men attacked through the ledge and fighting like men possessed achieved the objective. Capt Vikram Batra was given the nation’s highest gallantry award, “Param Vir Chakra” posthumously for his outstanding courage, steadfast resolve, leadership, and supreme sacrifice.
Lt. Manoj Kumar Pandey
1/11 Gorkha Rifles July 2, 1999
Captain Manoj Pandey, belonged to Rudha village in Kamlapur tehsil of Sitapur district in Uttar Pradesh. he got selected to join the NDA in his pursuit of realizing his dream of donning the Army uniform as an officer. He got commissioned into 1/11 Gorkha Rifles of the Indian Army, a unit known for its gallant soldiers and various heroic exploits. Kargil War, 03 July 1999: By early May 1999, Pakistani forces had intruded well across the LOC, in the Mushkoh, Drass, Kaksar, and Batalik sectors. The extent of penetration across the LOC varied from 4 to 8 kms in each sector. In many vital points, neither artillery nor air power could dislodge the enemy forces, who were not in the visible range. The Indian forces had no option but to send up the soldiers for direct assaults which were slow and took a toll. One such mission was planned in the Batalik sector and 1/11 GR was assigned the task to take over Khalubar. The task was given to the ‘B’ company of 1/11 GR wherein Capt Manoj was commanding Platoon No 5. Earlier Capt Manoj was also part of the team which had captured Jaubar Top and established the first post there. On the night of 2/3 July 1999, Capt Manoj along with his troops marched off for the Pahalwan Chowki located at a height of 19700 feet on his way to Khalubar. As the assault team moved ahead, it faced heavy and intense enemy fire from both sides of the hillock. Capt Manoj quickly moved his platoon to an advantageous position under intense enemy fire, sent one section to clear the enemy positions from the right and himself proceeded to clear the enemy positions from the left. Capt Manoj fearlessly charged ahead with the booming battle cry, “Jai Mahakali, Aayo Gorkhali” clearing two enemy bunkers. While clearing the third bunker a barrage of bullets hit him on the shoulder and legs. Undaunted and without caring for his grievous injuries, he continued to lead the assault on the fourth bunker and destroyed the same with a grenade. As he hit his target he himself got hit in the forehead with a bullet. Capt Manoj later succumbed to his injuries and was martyred at the age of 24 years. Capt Manoj Kumar Pandey was given the nation’s highest gallantry award, “Param Vir Chakra” for his outstanding courage, leadership and devotion to duty.
Grenadier Yogendra Singh Yadav
18 Grenadiers July 3, 1999
Subedar Major Yogendra Singh Yadav was born on 10 May 1980 in Aurangabad Ahir village, Bulandshahr district, Uttar Pradesh. In June 1996, Yogendra joined the Indian Military Academy (IMA) in the Manekshaw Battalion. Aer concluding his 19- month training at the IMA, he graduated from the IMA aer on 6 December 1997. Yogendra was merely 16 years and 5 months old when he joined the Indian Army as a Sainik in The Grenadiers(18th Battalion) of Indian Army. On 12 June 1999, his battalion captured Tololing Top, and in the process, 2 officers, 2 junior commissioned officers, and 21 soldiers sacrificed their lives. He, along with 14 other soldiers, He was a part of the Ghatak Platoon and was assigned to capture Tiger Hill on the night of 3/4 July 1999. The platoon had to climb 16,500 feet of a steep snowbound and rocky section of the mountain to reach on the peak of Tiger Hill. He volunteered to lead and fix the rope for his team. On seeing the team, the enemy opened extreme automatic grenade, rocket and artillery fire. The Commander and two of his colleagues died in the firing and the platoon was stalled. He then crawled up to the enemy position in tranquillity, and in the process, he sustained multiple bullet injuries. He continued climbing in the forward direction towards the enemy positions, lobbed grenades, continued firing from his weapons and executed four enemy soldiers in close combat. Despite multiple bullet injuries, he continued to battle until he could. Inspired by his valorous act, the platoon charged on the other positions with thunder and captured Tiger Hill Top. He survived 12 bullets on his body; with one bullet piercing through his heart, during the Tiger Hill Operation. “I had sustained 12 bullet wounds on my arm, legs. An enemy soldier also took an aim at my chest and fired a bullet, but it ricocheted off the Rs 5 coins I had kept in my pocket.” The Param Vir Chakra was announced for him posthumously, but soon it was found that he was recovering in a hospital and there was another soldier with his namesake in the company who was martyred during Kargil war. Grenadier Yogender Singh Yadav became the example of the most evident valour, invincible gallantry, and determination under extremely adverse circumstances.
Rifleman Sanjay Kumar
13 J&k Rifles July 4, 1999
Naib Subedar Sanjay Kumar was born in a small village in Bilaspur District of Himachal Pradesh. During Kargil War of 1999, he was with 13th Battalion, Jammu & Kashmir Rifles, tasked to capturing Area Flat Top. He was the leading scouts man. The area was held by Pakistani troops. Having scaled the cliff, the team was pinned down by machine gun fire from an enemy bunker, about 150 meters away. Kumar, realizing the gravity of the situation, crawled alone up the ledge and charged towards the enemy bunker through a hail of automatic fire. In the ensuing hand-to-hand combat, he killed three of the intruders and was himself seriously injured. He then picked up an enemy machine gun and crept towards the second enemy bunker. The enemy soldiers, taken completely by surprise, were killed by him as they fled their post. Inspired by his act the rest of the platoon charged, assaulted the feature and captured Area Flat Top. For his gallant bravery, he was honored with Param Vir Chakra.
Sources: Honourpoint, ADGPI-IA
Amazingly inspiring 🙏🇮🇳❤