November 3, 1947: Remembering Major Somnath Sharma, India's First Param Vir Chakra Awardee on his martyrdom day

Every year, India remembers Major Somnath Sharma, the first recipient of the country's highest wartime gallantry award, the Param Vir Chakra, on his martyrdom day. He was posthumously awarded the honour in 1950 for his bravery during the 1947 India-Pakistan War.

 

At just 24, Major Sharma laid down his life while leading his men during a fighting patrol in Budgam village of Jammu Kashmir on November 3, 1947. His men fought Pakistani raiders and infiltrators, preventing them from advancing towards Srinagar airport. His resistance gave the Indian Army crucial time to strengthen its defences around Srinagar and prevent the city from falling into Pakistani hands.

 

Born on January 31, 1923, into a military family, Major Sharma was commissioned into the 8th Battalion of the 19th Hyderabad Regiment in 1942. His father, Major General (Retd) Amarnath Sharma, who headed the Army Medical Corps, established a charitable dispensary in 1955 in his son's memory.

 

 

Budgam is merely 5 km away from Srinagar airfield, and the high ground around it guards the prominent approaches towards the airfield.

 

Thus,it was important for the Indian forces to retain control of the area in order to safeguard the supplies landing at the airfield.

There had been persistent rumours of tribal movements towards Budgam and an enemy force lodged there could easily threaten it. The enemy army had been arriving in Budgam in small groups to hide their movement. They had planned to attack Budgam when they reached a count of around 1000 men, and then advance to Srinagar airfield.

 

During the Battle of Budgam, the Indian troops were airlifted to Srinagar, where the enemy had invaded on October 22, 1947. On October 31, the D Company of the fourth battalion of the Kumaon Regiment flew to Srinagar under Major Sharma's command. During the operation, his left hand was cast in plaster due to previous injuries in a hockey field; however, he insisted on being with his company and was permitted the same.

 

The heavy casualties adversely affected the company's firing might, therefore Sharma took it upon himself to distribute ammunition to his men and operating light machine guns. A mortar shell exploded on a pile of ammunition near him while he was busy fighting the infiltrators. However, the brave young soldier displayed exemplary leadership and before succumbing to his injuries.

 

In his last message sent to the brigade headquarters, Major Sharma said, "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."

His indomitable spirit motivated the troops to fight after his death and secure the Srinagar Airfield for India. His citation spoke of his heroism, patriotism and courage under fire.