Short and Long Answer Questions: A Tale of Valour | English Poorvi Class 8 - New NCERT PDF Download

Short Answer Questions

Q1. Why was the Battle of Badgam a turning point in the history of Jammu and Kashmir?
Ans: The Battle of Badgam was a turning point because it prevented Srinagar airfield from being captured by enemy forces. If the airfield had fallen, Indian reinforcements could not have landed, and Kashmir would have been lost to invasion. Major Somnath Sharma’s brave defense ensured that the Indian Army could secure the region in time.

Q2. What qualities of Major Somnath Sharma are highlighted during the battle?
Ans: Major Somnath Sharma showed remarkable courage, leadership, and patriotism. Even though his arm was in plaster, he led his troops with great determination. His selflessness and bravery, fighting till his last breath, continue to inspire soldiers and citizens alike.

Q3. How did Major Somnath Sharma motivate his soldiers in a critical situation?
Ans: When the situation became extremely difficult, Major Somnath Sharma encouraged his men to stay firm and fight bravely. He reminded them of their duty to protect the nation and inspired them with his own example of fighting fearlessly despite being injured. His words and actions kept the soldiers motivated until the very end.

Q4. What challenges did the Indian Army face during the Battle of Badgam?
Ans: The Indian soldiers faced overwhelming challenges in the Battle of Badgam. They were heavily outnumbered by the enemy, short of ammunition and supplies, and fighting in difficult mountainous terrain. Despite these odds, their courage and determination helped them stop the enemy’s advance.

Q5. How did Major Somnath Sharma’s sacrifice contribute to the defense of Kashmir?
Ans: Major Somnath Sharma’s sacrifice delayed the enemy long enough for Indian reinforcements to arrive. This ensured that Srinagar and the Kashmir Valley remained under Indian control. His supreme courage saved Kashmir from falling into enemy hands and secured peace in the region.

Q6. Why was Major Somnath Sharma awarded the Param Vir Chakra?
Ans: Major Somnath Sharma was awarded the Param Vir Chakra, India’s highest gallantry award, for his extraordinary courage and sacrifice in the Battle of Badgam. He became the first recipient of this honor, setting an example of bravery and patriotism for future generations.

Q7. What message does Major Somnath Sharma’s story give to young Indians?
Ans: His story teaches us the values of bravery, duty, and love for the nation. It reminds young Indians that true heroes are those who put the country before themselves and protect its freedom, even at the cost of their lives.

Q8. What role did Srinagar airfield play in the defense of Kashmir?
Ans: The Srinagar airfield was crucial because it allowed Indian troops and supplies to be flown into Kashmir quickly. If it had fallen into enemy hands, India would not have been able to defend the region. The successful defense of the airfield became a turning point in saving Jammu and Kashmir.

Long Answer Questions

Q1. Describe the role of Major Somnath Sharma in the Battle of Badgam.
Ans: Major Somnath Sharma played a heroic role in the Battle of Badgam. Even though his company was heavily outnumbered, he encouraged his men to hold their positions and fight bravely. He showed remarkable leadership, courage, and commitment to his duty. Despite being injured, he continued to direct operations on the battlefield. His sacrifice delayed the enemy advance, which gave the Indian Army time to bring in reinforcements. This act of bravery saved Srinagar from being captured and proved his deep sense of patriotism.

Q2. Explain how the Indian Army benefited from the sacrifice of Major Somnath Sharma and his company.
Ans: The Indian Army benefited greatly from the sacrifice of Major Somnath Sharma and his company. Their stand at Badgam slowed down the enemy’s progress toward Srinagar airport, which was crucial for receiving supplies and reinforcements. By holding the enemy back, they bought valuable time for the Army to regroup and strengthen their defenses. This helped secure Srinagar and eventually the entire Kashmir Valley. Their bravery not only changed the course of the battle but also inspired other soldiers to fight with determination.

Q3. What does the story of Major Somnath Sharma teach us about the values of courage and patriotism?
Ans: The story of Major Somnath Sharma is a powerful lesson in courage and patriotism. He showed that true bravery is not the absence of fear but the determination to fight for what is right, even in the face of danger. His dedication to his country was so strong that he chose duty over personal safety. He reminded his soldiers that their responsibility to the nation was greater than their own lives. His actions teach us that courage and patriotism are about sacrifice, discipline, and putting the nation before self.

Q4. Discuss the challenges faced by Major Somnath Sharma and his men during the Battle of Badgam.
Ans: Major Somnath Sharma and his men faced many challenges during the Battle of Badgam. They were heavily outnumbered by the enemy and had limited supplies of weapons and ammunition. The terrain was difficult, making defense even harder. Despite these obstacles, they stood firm and fought with great determination. Major Sharma himself was injured but continued leading his men from the front. Their ability to hold their ground under such pressure shows their extraordinary courage and discipline.