Brave Soldiers · Param Vir Chakra
Somnath Sharma
Major · 1923 – 1947
The first recipient of the Param Vir Chakra, who held the line at Badgam to save Srinagar.
On 3 November 1947 Major Somnath Sharma’s company of 4 Kumaon was attacked at Badgam, near Srinagar airfield, by a much larger force of raiders. He held his position until he was killed, buying time for reinforcements to secure the airfield on which the defence of Srinagar depended.
Early life and background
Born into a military family in Kangra, Somnath Sharma was educated at the Prince of Wales Royal Military College, Dehradun, and the Royal Military College, Sandhurst. He was commissioned in 1942 into the 4th Battalion, 19th Hyderabad Regiment (later 4 Kumaon), and served in the Arakan campaign in Burma during the Second World War, where he was mentioned in despatches.
Historical context
In October 1947, soon after Jammu and Kashmir acceded to India, raiders from across the border advanced on Srinagar. Indian troops were flown into Srinagar airfield, which was vital to the defence of the valley.
Key achievements
On 3 November 1947 Major Sharma’s company was on patrol at Badgam when it was attacked by a far larger force. Although his arm was in plaster from an earlier injury, he directed the defence, moving between positions under fire. His company held on long enough for reinforcements to arrive and the airfield to be secured.
Important events and milestones
- 1942 Commissioned into the 19th Hyderabad Regiment.
- 1942–45 Serves in the Arakan campaign, Burma.
- 27 October 1947 Indian troops begin landing at Srinagar airfield.
- 3 November 1947 Battle of Badgam; killed in action.
- 1950 Awarded the Param Vir Chakra posthumously.
Awards and honours
Param Vir Chakra (posthumous) — the first award of India’s highest wartime gallantry decoration.
His sacrifice
Major Somnath Sharma was killed on 3 November 1947 when a mortar shell exploded near his position. He was twenty-four.
Enduring legacy
The stand at Badgam is remembered as a defining action in the defence of Srinagar. His name is honoured at the National War Memorial in New Delhi.
References
- Gallantry Awards portal, Ministry of Defence (opens in a new tab)
- Wikipedia — Somnath Sharma (with cited sources) (opens in a new tab)
Portrait: India Post commemorative stamp, 2003 · India Post, Government of India · 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.