November 3, 1947: Remembering India’s first Param Vir Chakra awardee Major Somnath Sharma, "The man, the legend"

Major Somnath Sharma was the first recipient of the Param Vir Chakra (PVC), India's highest military decoration. He was awarded the PVC posthumously for his exceptional bravery and sacrifice during the 1947-1948 Indo-Pak War in Kashmir. His courageous actions in the face of overwhelming odds and his determination to hold the Srinagar Airport against the enemy have made him a symbol of valor and patriotism in the Indian Armed Forces.

The young officer( 24)laid down his life in the service of nation while leading his men on a fighting patrol to Budgam village in Kashmir while evicting tribal invaders supported by Pakistani army from Srinagar airport in the year 1947 and provided the much needed time for the Indian army to fortify defences around Srinagar, thus, enabling India to prevent Kashmir from falling into the hands of Pakistan.

Somnath Sharma was born on January 31, 1923, in a military family. He 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, set up a charitable dispensary in 1955 in memory of his son.

Battle of Budgam:-

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 unparalleled courage and 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 valour under fire. Major Somnath Sharma’s legacy continues to inspire generations of Indian soldiers and citizens.