Major Somnath Sharma

Major Somnath Sharma, son of Major General Amarnath Sharma was born on 31st January 1923 in Himachal Pradesh. Commissioned in the Kumaon Regiment on 22nd February 1942, he fought in the Arakan Operations during the Second World War.

When India gained its independence, not all the states had accepted to be a part of the Country and demanded independent constituencies. Kashmir was then ruled by Raja Hari Singh who had been unsuccessful in curbing the rising unrest among the people. Also, Pakistan launched the tribal invasion of Jammu and Kashmir on 22nd October 1947 with the intention of occupying the valley by force.

Kashmir became a part of the Union on October 26th and hence the responsibility of its protection was with the Indian Army. Indian government took quick action and dispatched troops to Srinagar to counter the invasion by Pakistan.

Major Somnath Sharma led the D Company of 4 Kumaon, which was airlifted to Srinagar on 31st October. Major Sharma’s arm had been plastered in a hockey match but he insisted on being with his company and was granted permission.

The enemy resorted to guerilla warfare to enter into the valley. The company led by Major Sharma was asked to take position south of Bagdam till 1500 hours. At 1435 hours the army experienced firing from the houses and the army did not retaliate for fear of killing the civilians. In the meantime, a 700 strong enemy force appeared and opened fire inflicting heavy casualties on the army. The threat to the valley and the airfield loomed large before his eyes. Major Sharma did not worry about his safety and rushed across the open ground exposing himself to the heavy firing by the enemy. His company held on against the enemy for six long hours!

Major Sharma, with a plaster on his right hand, took upon himself the task of filling magazines and passing it on to his men. He laid down his life for his nation when a mortar shell exploded on the ammunition. He laid down his life fighting bravely for India.

His last message to Brigade HQ, received a few moments before he was killed was, "The enemy are only 50 yards from us. We are heavily outnumbered. We are under devastating fire. I shall not withdraw an inch but will fight to our last man and our last round."

He set an example of courage and determination and stopped @ nothing to protect the valley from the enemy. Major General Amarnath Sharma received India's first and highest war-time gallantry medal, Param Vir Chakra, on behalf of his brave son.