2.1 A Tale Of Valour - Major Somnath Sharma And The Battle Of Badgam - Class 8 - Poorvi (New)

Author: Not mentioned

Textbook: Poorvi

Genre: Biographical Sketch

Summary

The chapter narrates the life and supreme sacrifice of Major Somnath Sharma, the first recipient of the Param Vir Chakra. Born in Kangra, Himachal Pradesh, in 1923, he grew up in a military family and was inspired by the heroic tales of the Mahabharata. He was commissioned into the 19th Hyderabad Regiment in 1942 and served with distinction. In November 1947, during the Battle of Badgam in Kashmir, Somnath Sharma led his men to protect the Srinagar airport from Pakistani-backed tribal invaders. Despite having his arm in plaster and being heavily outnumbered, he insisted on fighting alongside his soldiers. He laid ground panels for air strikes, distributed ammunition, and motivated his company with words of courage. Outnumbered seven to one, he fought till his last breath and was killed by a mortar shell. His leadership and sacrifice ensured that Srinagar remained secure. His story continues to inspire generations with values of courage, patriotism, and devotion to duty.

Character Sketch

• Major Somnath Sharma

  • Brave and fearless soldier who placed duty above self.

  • Inspiring leader who fought despite personal injury.

  • Dedicated patriot, ready to sacrifice life for the nation.

  • Remembered as a symbol of valour and commitment.

Themes

Literary Devices

Title Justification

The title “Major Somnath Sharma: The Beacon of Valour” is justified because it captures the essence of the story. Major Somnath Sharma’s heroism during the Battle of Badgam made him a shining example of courage and patriotism. His sacrifice ensured India’s safety at a crucial moment, and his life continues to inspire countless citizens and soldiers. The word “beacon” reflects his role as a guiding light for future generations.

One-Mark Questions

1. When and where was Major Somnath Sharma born? Answer: Major Somnath Sharma was born on 31 January 1923 in Dadh, Kangra, Himachal Pradesh.
   

2. Into which regiment was Major Somnath Sharma commissioned? Answer: Major Somnath Sharma was commissioned into the 19th Hyderabad Regiment in 1942.
   

3. What mission did Somnath Sharma and his men undertake? Answer: The mission of Somnath Sharma and his men was to protect the Srinagar airport from Pakistani-backed tribal invaders.
   

4. How did Major Somnath Sharma guide the aircraft during the battle? Answer: Major Somnath Sharma guided the aircraft by laying out ground panels for accurate air strikes.
   

5. For what act was Somnath Sharma awarded the Param Vir Chakra? Answer: Somnath Sharma was awarded the Param Vir Chakra for his conspicuous bravery and supreme sacrifice in the Battle of Badgam.

Three-Mark Questions

1. Why was the Battle of Badgam significant for India? Answer: The Battle of Badgam was significant because it prevented Srinagar and Kashmir from falling into enemy hands. The invaders wanted to capture strategic areas, including the airport. The resistance led by Major Somnath Sharma delayed their advance, allowing reinforcements to arrive. His sacrifice ensured Srinagar remained secure and a part of India.
   

2. How did Somnath Sharma inspire his soldiers during the battle? Answer: Somnath Sharma inspired his soldiers by staying with them despite an injured arm. He supplied ammunition, encouraged his men to fight bravely, and reminded them of their duty. His own fearless actions, including requesting air strikes and continuing until his death, motivated his company to hold their ground against a much larger enemy force.
   

3. What challenges did Somnath Sharma and his men face in Badgam? Answer: Somnath Sharma and his men faced overwhelming odds, being outnumbered nearly seven to one. They struggled with limited ammunition and heavy casualties. Despite these hardships, Sharma led from the front, ensuring his men continued fighting bravely until reinforcements arrived, even though he lost his life in the battle.
   

4. How did Somnath Sharma’s early upbringing influence his character? Answer: Somnath Sharma’s upbringing in a military family instilled discipline and a strong sense of duty. Inspired by the Mahabharata stories narrated by his grandfather and the service of his father, he developed values of honour, patriotism, and courage. These qualities shaped his determination and leadership as a soldier.
   

5. What was the outcome of the battle led by Major Somnath Sharma? Answer: The outcome was that the enemy suffered over 300 casualties and failed to capture Srinagar. Although Somnath Sharma was martyred, his resistance delayed the enemy, giving time for Indian reinforcements to secure the area. His leadership ensured Srinagar remained in Indian control, and he was posthumously honoured with the Param Vir Chakra.

Value-Based Question

Q. What lessons can students learn from Major Somnath Sharma’s life? Answer: Students can learn the importance of courage, resilience, and a sense of duty from Major Somnath Sharma’s life. His sacrifice teaches that true leadership involves leading by example and placing collective good above personal safety. His legacy inspires individuals to face difficulties bravely, remain committed to responsibilities, and serve the nation and society with honesty.

About BhashaLab

BhashaLab is a dynamic platform dedicated to the exploration and mastery of languages - operating both online and offline. Aligned with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and the National Credit Framework (NCrF), we offer language education that emphasizes measurable learning outcomes and recognized, transferable credits.

We offer:

1. NEP alligned offline language courses for degree colleges - English, Sanskrit, Marathi and Hindi

2. NEP alligned offline language courses for schools - English, Sanskrit, Marathi and Hindi

3. Std VIII, IX and X - English and Sanskrit Curriculum Tuitions - All boards

4. International English Olympiad Tuitions - All classes

5. Basic and Advanced English Grammar - Offline and Online - Class 3 and above

6. English Communication Skills for working professionals, adults and students - Offline and Online

Contact: +91 86577 20901, +91 97021 12044

Mail: info@bhashalab.com

Website: www.bhashalab.com