Defence Street

Category: India

  • 15 years of 26/11: The Gripping Story of the Terror Attacks

    15 years of 26/11: The Gripping Story of the Terror Attacks

    15 years of 26/11: 26/11 is remembered as a dark day in Indian history, commemorating the series of terrorist attacks that unfolded in Mumbai in November 2008. This Sunday will mark the 14th anniversary of the four-day-long onslaught, during which 12 coordinated shootings and bombings occurred in iconic locations across the city, including Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, Oberoi Trident, and Taj Palace and Tower, among others.

    On November 29, 2008, the concluding day of the attacks, the National Security Guards (NSG) carried out Operation Tornado to eliminate terrorists from the Taj Hotel. The assault resulted in the tragic loss of 166 lives, comprising both foreign nationals and security personnel. Nine terrorists associated with Pakistan’s Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) were fatally shot during the operation, while the tenth, identified as Kasab, was apprehended. Kasab was subsequently convicted, sentenced to death, and ultimately executed on November 21, 2012.

    Here’s a timeline of the 26/11 that took place on the fateful day:

    November 26, 2008: Ten individuals, allegedly under the influence of controllers in Pakistan, arrive in Mumbai from Karachi via speedboats. Swiftly dispersing, two of the assailants infiltrate the Trident, another two head towards the Taj, and four target Nariman House.

    Kasab, accompanied by another terrorist named Ismail Khan, launches an attack on Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT), initiating indiscriminate gunfire that instigates chaos and results in casualties. Subsequently, the assailants proceed to Cama Hospital, where they carry out an ambush, resulting in the tragic deaths of six police officers, including notable figures such as Ashok Kamte, Vijay Salaskar, and the then-head of the anti-terror squad, Hemant Karkare.

    Following their attack, Kasab and Ismail Khan hijack a jeep in an attempt to escape. However, their getaway is thwarted by the police. Kasab is apprehended, but Khan meets his demise in the ensuing firefight. Unfortunately, another police official loses their life in the confrontation.

    On this day, the haunting images of smoke engulfing the Taj Hotel instilled terror in the city, leaving an indelible mark on the memories of Mumbai residents and people across India.

    Two of the four terrorists, Abdul Rehman Bada and Abu Ali, reach the main entrance after strategically placing a rudimentary RDX bomb in front of a police post. Armed with AK-47s, ammunition, and grenades, they initiate indiscriminate firing while progressing towards the lobby area.

    Shoaib and Umer, two additional terrorists, gain entry to the hotel through a separate entrance and commence firing upon guests in the poolside area. This results in the tragic deaths of four foreign individuals, as well as a security guard named Ravindra Kumar and his canine companion.

    As midnight approaches, Mumbai Police encircle the hotel while terrified guests seek refuge in confined spaces, desperately attempting to preserve their lives. At approximately 1 am, a bomb is detonated at the central dome of the hotel, resulting in billowing plumes of smoke emerging from the structure.

    November 27, 2008: the subsequent day, army soldiers and marine commandos encircle the Taj, Trident, and Nariman House. Reports emerge of renewed gunfire, simultaneous with terrorists igniting a room on the fourth floor of the hotel.

    November 28, 2008: Commandos successfully conclude their operations at the Trident and Nariman House.

    November 29, 2008: the National Security Guards (NSG) are summoned, and they eliminate the remaining terrorists at the Taj Hotel through Operation Tornado. The attackers within the hotel are fatally neutralized during this operation. Major Sandeep Unnikrishnan sustains gunshot wounds while rescuing commando Sunil Yadav, and Sergeant Gajendra Singh Bisht loses his life in the extended gunfight during the Nariman House operation.

    Remembering the courageous individuals of the Mumbai terror attacks.

    Major Sandeep Unnikrishnan

    Major Sandeep Unnikrishnan, an NSG commando, exemplified the Indian Army’s motto of “service before self” during the confrontation with terrorists within the Taj Hotel. Leading a team of 10 commandos, he successfully initiated a firefight with the assailants. Likely among Major Sandeep Unnikrishnan’s final words to his team were, “Do not come up, I will handle them,” uttered before he succumbed to gunshots while actively engaging the terrorists inside the hotel.

    The government honored Major Sandeep Unnikrishnan’s valor by conferring upon him the Ashoka Chakra.

    Tukaram Omble

    Tukaram Omble, an assistant sub-inspector serving in the Mumbai police, played a pivotal role in the apprehension of Ajmal Kasab.

    On November 26, Tukaram Omble and his team were stationed at a checkpoint when two terrorists approached in a hijacked car. Following an initial exchange of gunfire, one of the terrorists perished inside the vehicle, while the other, Ajmal Kasab, exited the car and feigned surrender by lying down. Unarmed, Omble cautiously approached Kasab, who suddenly rose and attempted to open fire. Omble positioned himself in front of Kasab, grasping the barrel of his rifle, effectively preventing the bullets from harming anyone else but him. While the rest of the team subdued and captured Kasab, Omble, having absorbed over 40 bullets from an AK-47 at point-blank range, did not survive this heroic act.

    In recognition of his extraordinary bravery, the government posthumously bestowed upon him the Ashoka Chakra, India’s highest peacetime gallantry award.

    Hemant Karkare

    The Chief of the Anti-Terrorist Squad sustained three gunshot wounds to his chest while engaging terrorists outside Cama Hospital in south Mumbai.

    Former Mumbai Police Commissioner Julio Rebeiro was quoted later, expressing, “Karkare was among the finest police officers in Maharashtra, and I dare say, in India.”

    Ashok Kamte

    Ashok Kamte, serving as the Additional Commissioner of the Mumbai Police overseeing the Eastern region, met his demise in the course of the terror attacks. Despite his jurisdiction in the East zone not being directly targeted, he willingly extended his assistance during the attacks.

    He also lost his life while engaging terrorists in the narrow lane between St. Xavier’s College and Rang Bhavan in south Mumbai.

    Vijay Salaskar

    Vijay Salaskar, an encounter specialist leading the Anti-Extortion Cell, sacrificed his life in the line of duty during the Mumbai attacks. In subsequent interrogation, the captured terrorist Ajmal Kasab confessed to the killing of Salaskar.

    The government posthumously honored him with the Ashoka Chakra on January 26, 2009, in recognition of his bravery.

    Hawaldar Gajendra Singh

    Hawaldar Gajendra Singh was part of the NSG commando unit that descended by abseiling onto the roof of Nariman House, where terrorists were holding a minimum of six hostages. The team faced gunfire from the terrorists at the hostage location, with the attackers even throwing grenades at the commandos. It was his ultimate sacrifice that contributed to the NSG team securing a strategically advantageous position in the encounter.

    Israel’s move ahead of the 26/11 anniversary

    In anticipation of the 15th anniversary of the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks, Israel has officially designated the Pakistan-based terror group Lashkar-e-Taiba as a “terror organization.”

    In making this declaration, the Israeli embassy in New Delhi stated, “To mark the 15th anniversary of the commemoration of the Mumbai terror attacks, the State of Israel has officially designated Lashkar-e-Taiba as a terrorist organization.”

    “Even in the absence of a formal request from the Government of India, the State of Israel has diligently fulfilled all requisite procedures, adhered to necessary checks, and met all regulatory standards to officially include Lashkar-e-Taiba in the Israeli list of proscribed terrorist organizations,” stated the announcement.

    Israel’s decision coincides with its request for India to designate Hamas as a terrorist organization. Last month, Israel’s ambassador to India, Naor Gilon, asserted that it is time for India to classify Hamas as a terrorist organization, a step taken by several nations.

    The US, UK, European Union, Canada, Australia, and Japan are among the countries and groupings that have officially designated Hamas as a terrorist organization.

  • “Sense Of Pride” PM Modi takes sortie on Tejas aircraft in Bengaluru

    “Sense Of Pride” PM Modi takes sortie on Tejas aircraft in Bengaluru

    PM Modi in Tejas Aircraft: On Saturday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi took a ride on a Tejas aircraft during his visit to the Hindustan Aeronautics Limited site in Bengaluru.

    The Prime Minister utilized social media platform X to convey his experience of undertaking a sortie in the Tejas fighter aircraft.

    “Successfully completed a sortie on the Tejas. The experience was incredibly enriching, significantly bolstering my confidence in our country’s indigenous capabilities, and leaving me with a renewed sense of pride and optimism about our national potential”, Modi said in a post on X.

    “Flying in Tejas today, I can say with immense pride that due to our hard work and dedication, we are no less than anyone in the world in the field of self-reliance. Heartiest congratulations to the Indian Air Force, DRDO and HAL as well as all Indians,” he added. Modi arrived in the city earlier today and visited Defence PSU

    The Prime Minister has been advocating for the indigenous production of defense products, emphasizing his government’s role in enhancing their manufacturing within India and promoting their exports.

    Numerous countries have shown interest in purchasing Tejas, a light combat aircraft. During the Prime Minister’s recent state visit to the US, US defense giant GE Aerospace signed an agreement with HAL to collaboratively manufacture engines for the Mk-II Tejas.

    In April of this year, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh highlighted that India’s defense exports had achieved a record high of ₹15,920 crore in the fiscal year 2022-2023. He emphasized that this accomplishment was a notable achievement for the country.

    According to the news agency PTI, under the administration of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, an order worth ₹36,468 crore has been issued to Hindustan Aeronautics Limited for the supply of 83 LCA Mk 1A Tejas aircraft.

    They mentioned that the delivery of these Tejas aircraft is set to commence by February 2024. They emphasized that the government has undertaken significant measures to enhance India’s defense readiness and promote indigenization, encompassing the Tejas fighter aircraft.

    The report indicated that an allocation exceeding ₹9,000 crore has been approved for the advancement of LCA Mk 2, which is an enhanced and more formidable iteration of the LCA Tejas.

    To further bolster indigenization efforts, which include the production of aircraft engines, the transfer of technology for manufacturing the GE engine in India was negotiated with the US firm during Modi’s visit to the country in June 2023.

  • Indian Air Force issues tender to HAL for buying 12 Su-30 MKI fighter jets

    Indian Air Force issues tender to HAL for buying 12 Su-30 MKI fighter jets

    The Indian Air Force has taken a significant step to enhance its squadron capacity by issuing a procurement request to Hindustan Aeronautics Limited, a state-owned entity, for the acquisition of 12 advanced Su-30MKI fighter jets.

    According to defense sources, a recent tender has been released to Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) for the procurement of 12 Su-30MKI fighters. The HAL, in collaboration with Russian original equipment manufacturers, will manufacture these fighters in India. The public sector company is anticipated to submit a response to the tender, including project specifics, by the coming month.

    The aircraft will incorporate a significant proportion of indigenous components, aligning with the Indian Air Force’s specifications and in accordance with the government’s Aatmanirbhar policies aimed at fostering self-reliance in the defense sector.

    “These would be one of the modern Su-30 MKI aircraft of the IAF, equipped with multiple Indian weapons and sensors,” they said.

    The Indian Air Force is currently undertaking a project to enhance the Sukhoi-30 fighter fleet through an ambitious initiative. This endeavor aims to upgrade 84 aircraft with indigenous weapon systems, advanced radars, and avionics.

    “The project is planned to be completed with the HAL indigenously and it will also position us well for the upgrade of similar aircraft in foreign countries, they said.

    India possesses a fleet of 272 Su-30 fighter jets, acquired in various phases by the Indian Air Force since the early 2000s.

    The aircraft have undergone upgrades, incorporating Indian systems and weapons such as the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile and the Astra air-to-air missile.

    Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari, the Chief of the Indian Air Force, recently emphasized that the BrahMos supersonic missile has significantly strengthened the firepower of the Indian Air Force. He highlighted that the missile has played a crucial role in enhancing the nation’s defensive capabilities in the face of potential conflicts.

    He stated that the formidable pairing of BrahMos missiles with Sukhoi Su-30 fighter jets is a powerful configuration. Additionally, he mentioned the ongoing development of scaled-down variants of the next-generation BrahMos missiles, designed to be integrated into other combat aircraft. The Su-30s have been actively involved in various exercises and operations, including the Balakot air strikes and the current military standoff with the Chinese People’s Liberation Army.

    Source: ANI

  • India’s ‘Zorawar’ light combat tank, China border’s ‘Specialist’, trial in December

    India’s ‘Zorawar’ light combat tank, China border’s ‘Specialist’, trial in December

    This tank is entirely manufactured using Indian technology. The most challenging and robust component of this tank is its 105mm main gun. After successful trials, production of the formidable tank will commence in series in India.

    In response to China’s Type 15 tank, India is ready with the formidable light tank. This tank is entirely manufactured using Indian technology. Trials for this tank will commence by the end of November. According to The Economic Times report, after successful trials, India plans to deploy it at several locations along the border with China. It will be the most capable tank for operating at high altitudes. In fact, the tanks deployed by China along the border with India are made with technology that allows them to operate at high altitudes while being lightweight, making them easily movable from one place to another.

    China border’s ‘Specialist’

    The current name of this tank is Joravar. It is capable of operating at high altitudes. Deployed along the border with China in Ladakh, it can function to its full capacity. It will be specifically stationed along the high-altitude border areas connecting China and India. Being lightweight, it can be easily transported from one place to another.

    The tank has been developed in response to the 2020 incursions by China in Ladakh. A notable feature of the tank is its capability to protect itself from attacks. To enhance visibility in the battlefield, it is equipped with unmanned aerial vehicles. This feature enhances the tank’s ability to both defend itself and launch attacks during times of conflict. The Joravar tank can be deployed in high altitudes, extending from mountainous terrains to icy landscapes.

    China has deployed light tanks along the border with India. Consequently, it was crucial for India to respond with similar weaponry. Hence, India has now developed this tank as a response to such arsenals. This tank will incorporate the highly advanced K-9 Vajra’s automatic gun chassis that India already possesses.

    The trial for this tank will commence at the end of November and will undergo several trials in the month of December. After passing through multiple trials, it will be deployed along the border with China. This is a joint project between DRDO and Larsen & Toubro. This tank will strengthen the Indian Army, providing it with enhanced mobility and precise firepower. Due to its high mobility and accurate firepower capabilities, it holds significant importance for the Indian military.

    This tank is entirely manufactured using Indian technology. The most challenging and crucial component of this tank is its 105mm gun. After successfully completing trials, production of the formidable Joravar tank will commence in series in India.

  • Bharat Dynamics Rockets to Success as All Three Military Branches Embrace Nirbhay Missiles

    Bharat Dynamics Rockets to Success as All Three Military Branches Embrace Nirbhay Missiles

    Bharat Dynamics, the reported manufacturer of the Nirbhay class of missiles, is poised for a significant boost as all three branches of the defense forces are reportedly set to incorporate these missiles designed for striking targets over a distance of 1,000 kilometers.

    “The government is actively reviewing a proposal to introduce the Nirbhay class cruise missiles into service,” ANI reported, citing sources. “The evaluation process is in an advanced stage, and upon approval, it will signify that all three defense forces will possess the capability to deploy subsonic cruise missiles for targeting.”

    The government granted approval for the inclusion of the missile in the inventory of the other two services approximately two years ago. Presently, there is a plan to extend this clearance to include the third service as well.

    The Nirbhay class cruise missiles serve as a complement to the supersonic BrahMos cruise missiles, which cover a shorter range. Developed domestically by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), the Nirbhay class comprises long-range cruise missiles that travel at subsonic speeds.

  • Is India expected to join the group of 19 countries that allows transgender individuals to serve in the military?

    Is India expected to join the group of 19 countries that allows transgender individuals to serve in the military?

    India has significantly progressed in ensuring equal rights for the LGBTQ+ community, despite the recent Supreme Court decision not to legalize same-sex marriages. It appears that the country is continuing to advance in this direction.

    As per a report from the Indian Express, the Indian Armed Forces are exploring the potential recruitment of transgender individuals into the services. Additionally, a study group has been established to discuss the consequences of such a decision and outline the pathway for its implementation within the defense forces.

    Should India decide to allow the enlistment of transgender individuals in the Services, it would mark a significant stride toward equality. Nonetheless, it’s worth noting that India would not be the pioneer in this regard.

    India, transgenders and its military

    Currently, the Indian Armed Forces do not allow the inclusion of transgender individuals in their services. Nevertheless, following the admission of women into the military, the three branches are now considering the induction of transgender personnel.

    In light of this, a study group has been established to carefully consider this decision. According to the Indian Express report, numerous suggestions have been put forth on this matter, with a prevailing sentiment that, if transgender individuals were to be admitted, they should not receive any special concessions regarding training, selection standards, or assignments in challenging locations.

    Others have also outlined potential challenges, including housing and administrative issues, associated with the integration of transgender individuals into the military service.

    A military officer, addressing the publication, remarked, “The military should not be viewed solely as a job opportunity. There are administrative hurdles, such as the shortage of housing and toilets, especially in field locations where resources and space are limited.”

    “Limiting their assignments solely to peaceful stations would reduce opportunities for others after a field tenure,” stated the officer.

    In 2017, the Indian Navy discharged Sabi Giri, formerly known as Manish Kumar Giri. During her dismissal, the Navy issued a statement explaining, “The serving sailor underwent sex reassignment surgery at a private facility while on leave and was administratively discharged from the service. The individual voluntarily opted for irreversible gender reassignment, altering their gender status from the one they were recruited for at the time of induction.”

    However, she contested the Navy’s decision before the Delhi High Court. During that time, the Navy permitted her to participate in the examination for the ‘tradesman mate’ position, but subsequently reneged on their commitment.

    In 2020, officials from the Border Security Force (BSF), Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), and Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) informed the Union government of their intention to enlist transgender individuals for the officer cadre position of assistant commandants.

    It is noteworthy that Tamil Nadu appointed India’s inaugural transgender police officer in 2015, and Chhattisgarh was the first state to actively hire members of the transgender community into its police force.

  • PM Modi celebrates Diwali with soldiers in Himachal’s Lepcha near China border

    PM Modi celebrates Diwali with soldiers in Himachal’s Lepcha near China border

    PM Modi celebrates Diwali with soldiers: Prime Minister Narendra Modi maintained his annual tradition by celebrating Diwali this year with soldiers in Lepcha, Himachal Pradesh, situated near the Chinese border.

    On Sunday morning, the Prime Minister arrived at the isolated village and described the experience of celebrating Diwali with the “brave security forces” in Lepcha as “emotionally profound and prideful.” He expressed that these guardians of the nation, despite being away from their families, bring illumination to our lives through their unwavering dedication.

    “The courage of our security forces is unwavering. Stationed in the toughest terrains, away from their loved ones, their sacrifice and dedication keep us safe and secure. India will always be grateful to these heroes who are the perfect embodiment of bravery and resilience,” PM Modi wrote on X.

    Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Modi extended his Diwali wishes to the people of the country, expressing his hope for their “excellent health.”

    “Wishing everyone a Happy Diwali! May this special festival bring joy, prosperity and wonderful health to everyone’s lives,” he said.

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi has consistently upheld a tradition of commemorating Diwali with the soldiers stationed at the nation’s borders. Since assuming office in 2014, he has consistently prioritized spending the festival of lights with the armed forces, making it a practice to travel to distant locations to convey his appreciation for their sacrifices. In the preceding year, he observed the festival with soldiers in Kargil, Jammu and Kashmir.

    PM Modi celebrates Diwali with soldiers Photos gone viral

  • Two Pakistan Rangers Shot Dead In Retaliatory Fire By BSF After Ceasefire Violation In J&K’s Ramgarh

    Two Pakistan Rangers Shot Dead In Retaliatory Fire By BSF After Ceasefire Violation In J&K’s Ramgarh

    On Thursday, the Border Security Force (BSF) responded by shooting down two Pakistani Rangers in the Sabz Peer Sector, following the unprovoked firing from the Pakistani side that resulted in the death of a BSF personnel near the International Border in Jammu and Kashmir’s Ramgarh sector, according to sources. The BSF jawan, injured in the unprovoked firing by Pakistan Rangers, later succumbed to the injuries.

    The firing initiated during the night of November 8-9 by Pakistan Rangers, and in response to the ceasefire violation along the international border in the Ramgarh and Arnia sectors in Jammu and Kashmir’s Samba district, the BSF provided a strong and fitting response.

    In an official statement, the BSF clarified that its personnel stationed in the Ramgarh sector responded appropriately when the Pakistan Rangers engaged in unprovoked firing during the night between November 8 and 9. The BSF statement noted that “one BSF personnel succumbed to injuries sustained in the unprovoked firing.”

    The 28-year-old BSF personnel, Head Constable/GD Lal Fam Kima of 148 Battalion, suffered gunshot wounds when Pakistan Rangers breached the ceasefire along the international border in Ramgarh. He was quickly taken to the Community Health Centre in Ramgarh for initial treatment, and subsequently transferred to a Military hospital after receiving first aid. Unfortunately, he later succumbed to his injuries.

    According to a local quoted by ANI, he witnessed a significant exchange of gunfire between BSF troopers and Rangers around 2-2.30 AM. The local stated, “There was intense firing between the BSF troops and Pakistan Rangers. The residents were frightened as the Pakistani forces engaged in unprovoked firing, so they remained indoors.” The local further mentioned that such firing had not occurred for the past 4-5 years.

    The Border Security Force paid tribute to their colleague who lost his life due to injuries sustained in unprovoked firing by Pakistan Rangers along the International Border in the Ramgarh sector of Jammu and Kashmir. The BSF stated, “Director General & all ranks of Border Security Force salute the supreme sacrifice of Head Constable/GD Lal Fam Kima of 148 Bn, who succumbed to injuries during an unprovoked Cross Border Firing incident along the Jammu Border. The Prahari Parivar stands by his family in this challenging time,” as mentioned in a post on X.

    In the early hours of Thursday, a terrorist associated with the banned terror group, The Resistance Front (TRF), was eliminated in the Kathohalan area of Shopian in Jammu and Kashmir. The Kashmir zone police reported the discovery of incriminating materials, including weapons and ammunition, in the possession of the terrorist.

    The Kashmir Zone Police, formerly on Twitter, posted, “A terrorist associated with the banned terror group TRF was neutralized. Incriminating materials, including weapons and ammunition, were recovered. The search operation is ongoing.”

  • IAF names S-400 aerial defense missile system after Lord Krishna’s primary weapon, ‘Sudarshan’

    IAF names S-400 aerial defense missile system after Lord Krishna’s primary weapon, ‘Sudarshan’

    The Indian Air Force has assigned a name to its S-400 aerial defense system with a mythical reference. To symbolize its formidable capabilities, the IAF has chosen the name ‘Sudarshan’ for the S-400 air defense missile system. This name is a direct reference to Lord Krishna’s primary weapon in Hindu mythology, signifying its destructive potential.

    Recently, the Indian Air Force’s ‘Sudarshan’ S-400 air defense system, accompanied by other potent weaponry, demonstrated its strength and capabilities during the ‘Poorvi Akash’ exercise. The ‘Poorvi Akash’ wargame was conducted by the Eastern Air Command, spanning from October 30 to November 4.

    The exercise served as a platform to display the coordination and operational readiness capabilities of both the Army and the Indian Air Force (IAF), encompassing defensive and offensive operations. As part of this exercise, various assets including the LCH Prachand, LCA Tejas, heavy-lift Chinook helicopters, and other airborne resources actively participated in the event.

    In the fiscal year 2018-19, India entered into a contract with Russia worth over Rs 35,000 crore for the acquisition of 5 squadrons of S-400 air defense systems. Furthermore, the Indian Air Force (IAF) has already made three of its S-400 air defense missile squadrons operational along the borders with China and Pakistan. Notably, to enhance its aerial defense capabilities, the Defense Acquisition Council (DAC) has approved the procurement of the Long Range Surface-to-Air Missile (LRSAM) system. This three-tiered LRSAM defense system has the capacity to intercept enemy aircraft and missiles at ranges of approximately 400 kilometers.

     

  • Major Somnath Sharma – First PVC Awardee, Who Enabled India To Prevent Kashmir From Falling Into Pakistani Hands

    Major Somnath Sharma – First PVC Awardee, Who Enabled India To Prevent Kashmir From Falling Into Pakistani Hands

    On November 3, 1947, just four months after India gained independence with great difficulty, Pakistan launched an attack on Srinagar with tribal militias. Their objective was to seize control of Srinagar Airbase. Around 700 enemies had invaded. Our 50 soldiers not only prevented them from advancing by six hours but also inflicted heavy casualties on around 200 infiltrators. During this fierce battle, 22 of our soldiers made the ultimate sacrifice. Major Somnath Sharma, the first Param Vir Chakra recipient of the country, is not only a source of inspiration for generations to come but also a symbol of unwavering courage and valor. This is the story of his remarkable bravery.

    On the morning of October 23, 1947, soldiers and weapons were flown from Palam Airport in Delhi to Srinagar. Major Somnath Sharma also arrived in Srinagar on October 31. At that time, Major Sharma had a plaster cast on his right hand because he had fractured it while playing hockey. Doctors had advised him to rest, but the heart of a patriot knows no rest. When the enemy is at the doorstep, wounds and pain become insignificant. Major Sharma requested permission to go to the battlefield, and it was granted. He was assigned the command of his unit.

    Senior military officers instructed Major Sharma that they needed to protect the Kashmir Valley from infiltrators. Their mission was to repel the enemy. Two days later, on November 2, 1947, news arrived that Pakistani invaders had reached from Srinagar Airfield to a location a few kilometers away in Badgam. Under the orders of Brigadier LP Bogie Sen, the commander of the 161 Infantry Brigade, Major Sharma and his company of 50 soldiers were dispatched to Badgam. On the morning of November 3, 1947, Major Sharma and his team arrived in Badgam. Immediately, he divided his company into several sections and took up positions to launch an attack.

    In the village of Badgam, there were signs of enemy activity. Major Sharma, while maintaining his position, estimated that these movements were merely a distraction to divert attention. The real attack would likely come from the west. Major Sharma’s assessment proved correct. At 2:30 in the afternoon, 700 Kabaili tribesmen launched an assault. They rained powerful mortar shells on the position of his 50 soldiers. Major Sharma and his fellow soldiers were surrounded from three sides. His team members were being badly wounded by the mortar shells exploding above their heads, showering them with shrapnel, glass, and deadly spikes. Despite the adversity, they were giving a resolute response.

    Each soldier was Taking on seven enemies single-handedly.

    When Major Sharma counted, he realized that each of his soldiers was engaged in combat with seven enemies. Immediately, he requested Brigade Sen to send more reinforcements. Major Sharma knew the value of the Badgam post. He was determined not to abandon that position. If that post were to fall, it could possibly lead to Srinagar slipping from India’s control, and the Kashmir Valley might become separate. However, Major Sharma and his team did not allow that to happen.

    In one hand a plaster, in the other a machine gun

    Despite having a plaster cast on one hand, Major Sharma was tirelessly boosting the morale of the soldiers at each post. Periodically, he rained bullets on the enemy. His forward platoon had been wiped out, but the rest of the soldiers continued the fight, inspired by Major Sharma’s determination. During this time, Major Sharma began supplying magazines to all the light automatic machine gunners to ensure that the posts never ran out of ammunition. This way, Indian bullets would continue tearing through the bodies of the enemy soldiers.

    During this time, Major Sharma sent a message to the headquarters. He conveyed that their numbers were very low, with the enemy positioned just 45-46 meters away. They were in the midst of a fierce firefight. But they would not retreat even an inch from their positions. They would continue to respond to the infiltrators until the last bullet and the last soldier. Shortly thereafter, Major Somnath Sharma was martyred in a mortar explosion. He fought until his last breath. His supreme sacrifice was not in vain.

    They prevented the capture of Srinagar Airbase.

    More than 20 soldiers from their position had already become martyrs, and Major Sharma was no longer among them. But the remaining soldiers displayed unwavering courage. Even after Major Sharma’s sacrifice, they held the enemy at bay for six hours, giving the next battalion enough time to arrive. As reinforcements, the first battalion of the Kumaon Regiment came in. Upon their arrival, they immediately took positions and delivered a resounding response to the enemy. Major Sharma, a junior commissioned officer, and 20 soldiers from the D Company of the 4th Kumaon Regiment had made the ultimate sacrifice. However, Srinagar and Kashmir were saved.