On 3 November 1947, Major Somnath Sharma of 4 Kumaon made the supreme sacrifice during the Battle of Badgam, in one of the most decisive actions of the first Indo-Pak War of 1947–48.
Born on 31 January 1923 in Dadh village of Kangra district, Himachal Pradesh, Somnath Sharma came from a military family. He was commissioned into the Indian Army on 22 February 1942 and served during the Second World War, including operations in the Arakan region. He belonged to the Kumaon Regiment and was serving with 4 Kumaon when the conflict broke out in Jammu and Kashmir in October 1947.
As Pakistani-backed tribal raiders advanced towards Srinagar, Indian troops were urgently deployed to defend the Valley. D Company of 4 Kumaon, commanded by Major Sharma, was airlifted to Srinagar on 31 October 1947.
At the time, Major Sharma's left hand was in plaster following a fracture sustained while playing hockey. Despite being advised to rest, he insisted on accompanying his company and was eventually permitted to join his men.
On the morning of 3 November, his company was ordered on a fighting patrol to Badgam. The troops took up positions south of the village, where they encountered an enemy force estimated at around 500 men. The attackers advanced from three directions, bringing intense fire from automatic weapons and mortars against the Indian position.
The situation became increasingly critical as casualties mounted. Major Sharma understood that allowing the enemy to break through could place both Srinagar and its airfield in immediate danger. The airfield was the essential link through which Indian reinforcements were being brought into the Valley.
Despite the heavy fire, Major Sharma repeatedly crossed exposed ground to reach his sections, direct their fire and encourage his men to hold their positions. He also helped direct Indian aircraft towards enemy positions. When casualties began affecting the effectiveness of his light machine-gun positions, he personally started filling magazines and distributing ammunition, despite his injured arm.
A mortar shell landed near him, causing a massive explosion. Major Sharma made the supreme sacrifice on the battlefield.
His company continued fighting for several hours after his death. The resistance at Badgam delayed the enemy advance, giving Indian reinforcements valuable time to strengthen the defence of Srinagar.
For his exceptional leadership, conspicuous gallantry and supreme sacrifice, Major Somnath Sharma was posthumously awarded the Param Vir Chakra. He became the first recipient of India's highest wartime gallantry award.
His actions at Badgam remain among the most defining episodes in the history of the Indian Army. On his martyrdom anniversary, The Honour Post pays tribute to Major Somnath Sharma, PVC (Posthumous), and the soldiers of 4 Kumaon who stood with him in the defence of Srinagar.
