Brave Soldiers · Param Vir Chakra
Hoshiar Singh Dahiya
Major · 1936 – 1998
Wounded, he held Jarpal against repeated counter-attacks in the Battle of Basantar.
Between 15 and 17 December 1971, in the Shakargarh sector, Major Hoshiar Singh’s company of 3 Grenadiers captured and held the position at Jarpal against repeated counter-attacks. Though seriously wounded, he refused evacuation until the fighting was over.
Early life and background
Born in a farming family in Haryana, Hoshiar Singh enlisted in the Grenadiers as a soldier and was later commissioned as an officer.
Historical context
In December 1971 Indian forces advanced in the Shakargarh sector, leading to the Battle of Basantar, one of the key battles on the western front.
Key achievements
Major Hoshiar Singh’s company captured Jarpal and then faced repeated counter-attacks supported by tanks. Moving between trenches under fire and at one point manning a machine gun himself, he kept the position.
Important events and milestones
- 1963 Commissioned into the Grenadiers.
- 15–17 December 1971 Captures and holds Jarpal.
- 1988 Retires as a Colonel.
- 6 December 1998 Dies.
Awards and honours
Param Vir Chakra.
Later life
Hoshiar Singh survived his wounds, continued to serve, and retired as a Colonel. He died in 1998.
Enduring legacy
His defence of Jarpal is a celebrated chapter in the history of the Grenadiers.
References
- Gallantry Awards portal, Ministry of Defence (opens in a new tab)
- Wikipedia — Hoshiar Singh Dahiya (with cited sources) (opens in a new tab)
Portrait: Official portrait (painting) · Indian Army · GODL-India · Source (opens in a new tab) · Licence terms (opens in a new tab)
This account is compiled from the sources listed and is offered as a tribute, not as an official record. Corrections are welcome at connect@vedacloud.ai.