Notes A Tale of Valour: Major English Poorvi Class 8 CBSE Board

Who was Major Somnath Sharma?

Born: 31 January 1923, Kangra, Himachal Pradesh.
Family: Military background; father was Major General Amar Nath Sharma.
Inspired by: Stories from Mahabharata told by his grandfather.
Training: Royal Military College, Sandhurst.
Commissioned in 1942 into the 19th Hyderabad Regiment.
Fought in World War II (Burma); received mentions in military reports for bravery.

After independence, Pakistan launched Operation Gulmarg in October 1947 to capture Kashmir Valley.

Goal: Seize Srinagar Airport and control Kashmir.

Indian troops were airlifted to Srinagar to stop the invasion.

31 October 1947: Major Sharma’s D Company (90 soldiers) reached Srinagar.

His left arm was fractured, but he still led his men.

3 November 1947: Pakistani-supported tribal invaders attacked.

Enemy strength: About 500 infiltrators.

Major Sharma requested air strikes and continued fighting.

He moved through the battlefield loading guns, directing fire, and motivating soldiers.

Famous last words:

“I shall not withdraw an inch but will fight to the last man and the last round.”

He was killed by a mortar shell while helping a gunner.

His men held their ground for 6 more hours, allowing reinforcements to arrive and save Srinagar.

Awarded Param Vir Chakra (PVC) posthumously – India’s highest gallantry award.

First-ever PVC awardee.

His leadership demoralized the enemy and saved Kashmir.

His name is on the Honour Wall at the National War Memorial.

Symbol of patriotism, courage, and sacrifice.

Valour – Courage.

Infiltrators – Secret attackers entering a region.

Ammunition – Bullets and explosives.

Legacy – Values and achievements passed on.

Posthumously – Awarded after death.

Duty and courage are more important than personal safety.

Sacrifices of soldiers protect our nation.

True leadership means standing with your team even in danger.