Somnath Sharma (31 January 1923 – 3 November 1947) was an Indian Major and the first recipient of India’s highest military decoration, Param Vir Chakra, which he was awarded posthumously.
Life and Career
Somnath Sharma was born on January 31, 1923, in Himachal Pradesh, India.
He hailed from a family with a strong military tradition; his father, Major General Amar Nath Sharma, had served in the Indian Army. Somnath Sharma received his early education in the town of Shimla.
In 1942, during World War II, Somnath Sharma joined the Indian Military Academy (IMA) in Dehradun. He was commissioned into the 4th Battalion, Kumaon Regiment, and later joined the Jammu and Kashmir Rifles. His military career saw him serve in various capacities, and he displayed exceptional leadership skills.
The critical juncture in Somnath Sharma’s life came during the Indo-Pakistani War of 1947-48, also known as the First Kashmir War. On October 22, 1947, Pakistan invaded the princely state of Jammu and Kashmir, leading to widespread conflict. Captain Somnath Sharma was deployed to the Kashmir Valley with his battalion to defend the strategic Srinagar airfield.
One of the most iconic moments in his career occurred during the Battle of Badgam (now Budgam) on November 3, 1947. The Indian Army faced a fierce Pakistani tribal militia assault, and Captain Sharma, leading a small group of soldiers, held a critical position on a ridge. Despite being heavily outnumbered and sustaining severe injuries, he continued to encourage his men and maintained the defense.
During the intense battle, Captain Somnath Sharma made the ultimate sacrifice for his country. He was fatally wounded, but his courage and leadership inspired his men to hold their ground. For his gallantry and selfless devotion to duty, Captain Somnath Sharma was posthumously awarded the Param Vir Chakra, India’s highest military decoration for valor, on February 15, 1950.
He passed away on 3 November 1947, in Budgam.
Award and Legacy
Somnath Sharma was posthumously awarded the Param Vir Chakra (PVC), India’s highest military decoration for valor. The PVC was conferred on him on February 15, 1950, in recognition of his exceptional bravery and leadership during the Battle of Badgam in the Indo-Pakistani War of 1947-48. This award is a testament to Captain Sharma’s selfless sacrifice and unwavering commitment to duty.
Captain Somnath Sharma’s life and sacrifice serve as an inspiration for young Indians, emphasizing the values of bravery, patriotism, and selflessness. His story is often recounted in schools, military academies, and public forums to instill a sense of duty and pride.
Several memorials and institutions bear Captain Somnath Sharma’s name in honor of his contributions. For example, Captain Somnath Sharma, PVC Government Degree College in Himachal Pradesh, and the Somnath Stadium in Jalandhar stand as tributes to his memory.
September 21, the day on which Captain Sharma made the ultimate sacrifice, is observed as Param Vir Chakra Day in India. On this day, the nation pays homage to all recipients of the PVC, including Captain Somnath Sharma, acknowledging their exceptional valor and service.
Captain Sharma’s life has been depicted in books, documentaries, and films, further ensuring that his story reaches a wider audience. These representations help preserve his legacy and contribute to the collective memory of the nation.
Captain Somnath Sharma is remembered as a national hero, and his legacy is an integral part of India’s military heritage. His name is often invoked in discussions about bravery and sacrifice, making him a symbol of national pride and resilience.