(iv) Fill in the blank with the correct word from those given in the brackets: Major Somnath Sharma was filling magazines, and encouraging his men to hold their ground despite ___________________________. (injuries/worry)
CBSE Class 8 > Class 8 Notes > English Poorvi - New NCERT > NCERT Solutions: A Tale of Valour: Major Somnath Sharma and the Battle of Badgam
NCERT Solutions: A Tale of Valour: Major Somnath Sharma and the Battle of Badgam
Let us do these activities before we read (Page 49)
I. Work in pairs. Share your answers with your classmates and teacher.
Q1: What do you think about the Republic Day Parade on 26 January?
Ans: The Republic Day Parade is a grand event that shows India's pride, strength, and unity. It makes me feel proud to be Indian.
Q2: What are the highlights of this parade?
Ans: The parade includes marching soldiers, colourful floats, cultural dances, military vehicles, and air shows, displaying India's diversity and power.
Q3: What bravery awards are given on this day, and who receives them?
Ans: Bravery awards, such as the Param Vir Chakra, Maha Vir Chakra, and Vir Chakra, are given to soldiers and occasionally civilians for their exceptional courage.
II. Work in groups of four and discuss.
Q1: What qualities do you think a soldier should have?
Ans: A soldier should be brave, disciplined, strong, loyal, and ready to protect the country even in danger.
Q2: If you had to share a message with a soldier, what would it be?
Ans: Thank you for your courage and sacrifice. You keep us safe, and we are proud of you!
Let us discuss (Page 59)
I. Arrange the following events in chronological order. The first and the last events have been marked for you. Share your answers with your classmates and teacher.
1. Major Somnath Sharma was born in 1923 in Kangra, Himachal Pradesh. (1)
2. Even after losing Major Somnath Sharma, the soldiers fought bravely to save Srinagar for India.
3. The D Company, under the command of Major Somnath Sharma, was flown into Srinagar.
4. Major Somnath Sharma underwent training at the Royal Military College, Sandhurst.
5. Major Somnath Sharma requested air strikes to combat the enemy at Badgam.
6. Major Somnath Sharma was commissioned into the 19th Hyderabad Regiment in 1942.
7. Major Somnath Sharma was killed immediately after a mortar shell hit him.
8. Major Somnath Sharma was the first recipient of the Param Vir Chakra. (8)
1. Major Somnath Sharma was born in 1923 in Kangra, Himachal Pradesh. (1)
2. Even after losing Major Somnath Sharma, the soldiers fought bravely to save Srinagar for India.
3. The D Company, under the command of Major Somnath Sharma, was flown into Srinagar.
4. Major Somnath Sharma underwent training at the Royal Military College, Sandhurst.
5. Major Somnath Sharma requested air strikes to combat the enemy at Badgam.
6. Major Somnath Sharma was commissioned into the 19th Hyderabad Regiment in 1942.
7. Major Somnath Sharma was killed immediately after a mortar shell hit him.
8. Major Somnath Sharma was the first recipient of the Param Vir Chakra. (8)
Ans:(1) Major Somnath Sharma was born in 1923 in Kangra, Himachal Pradesh.
(4) Major Somnath Sharma underwent training at the Royal Military College, Sandhurst.
(6) Major Somnath Sharma was commissioned into the 19th Hyderabad Regiment in 1942.
(3) The D Company, under the command of Major Somnath Sharma, was flown into Srinagar.
(5) Major Somnath Sharma requested air strikes to combat the enemy at Badgam.
(7) Major Somnath Sharma was killed immediately after a mortar shell hit him.
(2) Even after losing Major Somnath Sharma, the soldiers fought bravely to save Srinagar for India.
(8) Major Somnath Sharma was the first recipient of the Param Vir Chakra.
Let us think and reflect (Page 59)
I. Read the given extracts and answer the questions that follow.
1. Vastly outnumbered and facing devastating fire, Major Somnath Sharma and his men stood resolute. The air was thick with the sound of gunfire and the cries of battle, but Major Somnath Sharma's voice cut through the chaos, urging his men to fight with tenacity and valour. Despite heavy casualties and his injuries, Major Somnath Sharma displayed unparalleled bravery. He moved fearlessly through the battlefield, directing fire, filling magazines for his gunners, and encouraging his men to hold their ground.
(i) What can be inferred about the conditions from the line: 'The air was thick with gunfire...'
A. The gunshots had stopped for a while.
B. There was intense fighting on the battlefield.
C. The invaders were retreating from the fight.
D. The Indian soldiers had achieved victory.
A. The gunshots had stopped for a while.
B. There was intense fighting on the battlefield.
C. The invaders were retreating from the fight.
D. The Indian soldiers had achieved victory.
Ans: B. There was intense fighting on the battlefield.Explanation: The phrase 'the air was thick with gunfire' suggests continuous and heavy shooting, so it indicates intense fighting on the battlefield rather than a pause, retreat or victory.
(ii) Complete the sentence with a suitable reason.
Despite heavy casualties, Major Somnath Sharma continued to lead his men because ______________
Ans: he was determined to protect Srinagar and inspire his soldiers to keep fighting.
Explanation: Even though he was injured and his unit suffered losses, he gave orders, helped load magazines and encouraged his men, showing he wanted to hold the position for the greater military goal.
(iii) Select the correct option for both Assertion (A) and Reason (R)given below:
(A): Major Somnath Sharma moved fearlessly through the battlefield, even though he was injured.
(R): He believed his courage was important to motivate the soldiers.
A. Both (A) and (R) are true, and (R) is the correct explanation of (A).
B. Both (A) and (R) are true, but (R) is not the correct explanation of (A).
C. (A) is true, but (R) is false.
D. (A) is false, but (R) is true.(iii)
Select the correct option for both Assertion (A) and Reason (R):
Ans: A. Both (A) and (R) are true, and (R) is the correct explanation of (A).
Explanation:
(i) Assertion: Major Somnath Sharma did move fearlessly through the battlefield despite being injured - this is true because he continued to direct fire and support his men.
(ii) Reason: He believed his personal courage would encourage and motivate his soldiers - this is true because his actions show he wanted to set an example.
(iii) Justification: The reason explains the assertion - his courage was deliberately shown to inspire the men, so option A is correct: both (A) and (R) are true, and (R) is the correct explanation of (A).
2. Born on 31 January 1923, in the picturesque town of Dadh in Kangra, Himachal Pradesh, Somnath Sharma belonged to a family with a rich military legacy. His father, Major General Amar Nath Sharma, had served the nation with distinction, and young Somnath was deeply inspired by the valorous tales of the Mahabharata, imparted to him by his grandfather.
(i) What can be inferred about Somnath Sharma's early influences on his career?
A. He was primarily influenced by his father's achievements in the military.
B. His inspiration came solely from the tales of the Mahabharata.
C. His family and heritage inspired his bravery and sense of duty.
D. He decided to join the military out of necessity rather than passion.
A. He was primarily influenced by his father's achievements in the military.
B. His inspiration came solely from the tales of the Mahabharata.
C. His family and heritage inspired his bravery and sense of duty.
D. He decided to join the military out of necessity rather than passion.
Ans: C. His family and heritage inspired his bravery and sense of duty.
Explanation: Both his father's military service and his grandfather's stories from the Mahabharata motivated him to be brave and serve the country.
(ii) Identify whether the following statement is true or false:
Somnath Sharma belonged to a wealthy family.
Somnath Sharma belonged to a wealthy family.
Ans: False
Explanation: The story talks about his family's military legacy, not wealth.
(iii) What does the phrase 'served the nation with distinction' tell us about Major General Amar Nath Sharma?
Ans: He performed his duties with exceptional dedication, honour, and excellence. He was highly respected for his contributions to the country.
(iv) Replace the underlined phrase with a word from the extract that has a similar meaning.
My family and I visited a popular hill station and stayed in an old but visually charming house surrounded by trees.
My family and I visited a popular hill station and stayed in an old but visually charming house surrounded by trees.
Ans: Picturesque
Explanation: In the extract, picturesque means beautiful to look at, which matches the idea of a visually charming house.
II. Answer the following questions.
Q1. 'Major Somnath's legacy of courage and devotion to the nation remains forever alive, forever alive...' What is the significance of the repetition in this line?
Q1. 'Major Somnath's legacy of courage and devotion to the nation remains forever alive, forever alive...' What is the significance of the repetition in this line?
Ans: The repetition emphasises that Major Somnath's courage and sacrifice will always be remembered and inspire people forever.
Q2: Why do you think Major Somnath's leadership was critical during the Battle of Badgam?
Ans: His leadership was critical because, despite being outnumbered and under heavy fire, he organised defence, directed air strikes and motivated his men to hold their position, actions that helped prevent the enemy from taking the strategically important airfield at Srinagar.
Q3: What were Major Somnath's last words? What do they reflect about his sense of duty?
Ans: His last words were, "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." These words show his absolute commitment to duty, his refusal to retreat and his willingness to sacrifice himself to protect his country.
Q4: What might have been the outcome of the Battle of Badgam if Major Somnath and his company had not held their ground?
Ans: If they had not held their ground, the enemy might have captured the Srinagar airfield, which could have allowed them to bring in reinforcements and supplies, seriously weakening India's control of the region.
Q5: Why do you think Major Somnath's story continues to inspire soldiers and civilians today?
Ans: His story inspires because it demonstrates courage, self-sacrifice and devotion to duty. It reminds people that individual bravery and leadership can make a decisive difference in critical moments.
Q6: How can the values demonstrated by Major Somnath Sharma-courage, duty, and self-sacrifice-be applied in our daily lives?
Ans: We can apply these values by facing our responsibilities bravely, performing our duties honestly, helping others when needed, and staying committed to important goals like study or community service even when it is difficult
Let us learn (Page 62)
I. Match the expressions from Column 1 with the situations in Column 2 and complete the sentences.
Ans:
Now, complete the following sentences using the expressions from Column 1.
A. The detective managed to ______________ by finding the hidden evidence before the culprit could get rid of it.
B. The company's new advertising campaign was meant to ______________ to their competitors' sales.
C. The hikers chose to ______________ despite the heavy rain, refusing to turn back on their journey.
D. Despite being heavily outnumbered, the soldiers vowed to defend their homeland and ______________, refusing to surrender to the enemy forces.
A. The detective managed to foil the plan by finding the hidden evidence before the culprit could get rid of it.
B. The company's new advertising campaign was meant to deliver a blow to their competitors' sales.
C. The hikers chose to hold their ground despite the heavy rain, refusing to turn back on their journey.
D. Despite being heavily outnumbered, the soldiers vowed to defend their homeland and fight to the last man, refusing to surrender to the enemy forces.
II. Read the highlighted words in the following sentence from the text.
A contingent of troops posted to Jammu and Kashmir was air-lifted into Srinagar... There are many such collective nouns used in the context of armed forces.
Match the collective nouns in Column 1 to their meanings in Column 2.
You may refer to a dictionary
A contingent of troops posted to Jammu and Kashmir was air-lifted into Srinagar... There are many such collective nouns used in the context of armed forces.
Match the collective nouns in Column 1 to their meanings in Column 2.
You may refer to a dictionary
Ans:
Now, fill in the blanks suitably with words from Column 1 in the table.
A. The commanding officer addressed the entire ________ of soldiers during the morning assembly.
Ans: The commanding officer addressed the entire regiment of soldiers during the morning assembly.
B. The admiral ordered the entire ________ to set sail for battle.
Ans: The admiral ordered the entire fleet to set sail for battle.
C. The ________ of infantry advanced slowly through the dense forest.
Ans: The battalion of infantry advanced slowly through the dense forest.
D. A ________ of fighter jets was sent to intercept the enemy planes.
Ans: A squadron of fighter jets was sent to intercept the enemy planes.
III. Read the following words from the text and fill in the blanks with the correct words by taking clues from the meanings given below in the box.
Meanings
1. To take and seize control: ____________
Ans: To take and seize control: overthrow
2. To invade or occupy an area in large numbers: ____________
Ans: To invade or occupy an area in large numbers: overrun
3. To flood or overpower someone or something emotionally:____________
Ans: To flood or overpower someone or something emotionally: overwhelm
Now, create a list of at least five other verbs that begin with 'over' and frame sentences of your own.
Ans:
1.Overcome - She managed to overcome her fear of public speaking.
2.Overestimate - Don't overestimate your ability to complete the project in one day.
3.Overreact - Please don't overreact to a small mistake.
4. Overcook - He overcooked the pasta, so it turned out too soft.
5. Overlook - I overlooked the spelling error in the report.
IV. In the following pairs of words, 'c' is used for nouns, while 's' is used for verbs.
- advice (noun) and advise (verb)
- practice (noun) and practise (verb)
- device (noun) and devise (verb)
- council (noun) and counsel (verb)
Now, fill in the blanks correctly with the words given in the brackets.
1. The teacher's (i) ____________ is always helpful, and she continues to (ii) ____________ students on their career choices. (advice/advise)
Ans: The teacher's (i) advice is always helpful, and she continues to (ii) advise students on their career choices.
2. The musician believes that daily (i) ____________ helps a lot, so she is always ready to (ii) ____________ her harmonium lessons. (practice/practise)
Ans: The musician believes that daily (i) practice helps a lot, so she is always ready to (ii) practise her harmonium lessons.
3. The scientist uses a strange (i) ____________ for experiments and plans to (ii) ____________ new methods for his analysis. (device/devise)
Ans: The scientist uses a strange (i) device for experiments and plans to (ii) devise new methods for his analysis.
4. The village (i) ____________ met to discuss issues and decided to(ii) ____________ the villagers on important matters. (council/counsel)
Ans: The village (i) council met to discuss issues and decided to (ii) counsel the villagers on important matters.
V. Read the highlighted words in the following sentences from the text.
- ...ended with echoes of courage that serve as an inspiration...
- A contingent of troops posted to Jammu and Kashmir was airlifted into Srinagar...
- D Company with 90 soldiers was the last, and they were expected to return by 2:00 p.m.
- The life and sacrifice of Major Somnath Sharma embody the highest ideals of duty, honour, and patriotism.
The highlighted words are either singular verbs or plural verbs. They are in agreement with the subject of the sentence. This is called Subject-Verb Agreement.
Now, fill in the blanks for the following sentences by choosing the correct verb given within brackets.
1. The bouquet of flowers __________ (is/are) beautiful.
Ans: The bouquet of flowers is beautiful.
2. Neither the teacher nor the students __________ (was/were) aware ofthe change in the schedule.
Ans: Neither the teacher nor the students were aware of the change in the schedule.
3. Each of the participants __________ (has/have) submitted their projectson time.
Ans: Each of the participants has submitted their projects on time.
4. The data collected by the researchers __________ (shows/show)significant trends.
Ans: The data collected by the researchers show significant trends.
5. One of the players __________ (was/were) injured during the match.
Ans: One of the players was injured during the match.
6. Either the children or their guardian __________ (has/have) to attend the meeting.
Ans: Either the children or their guardian has to attend the meeting.
7. A pair of shoes __________ (is/are) missing from the rack.
Ans: A pair of shoes is missing from the rack.
8. Neither of the statements __________ (is/are) true.
Ans: Neither of the statements is true.
9. The members of the jury __________ (has deliver/have delivered) their verdict to the court.
Ans: The members of the jury have delivered their verdict to the court.
10. Mathematics __________ (is/are) an interesting subject for many students.
Ans: Mathematics is an interesting subject for many students.
VI. Read the following passage and correct the incorrect usage of verbs. One example has been done for you.
A battalion of soldiers stand at attention as the National flag are raised.
A battalion of soldiers stands at attention as the National flag is raised.
Each soldier salute with pride while the commander and his assistants inspects the parade. The sound of marching feet echo through the air as a group of cadets prepare for their drill. Meanwhile, a convoy of military vehicles pass by, drawing cheers from the gathered crowd.
A battalion of soldiers stand at attention as the National flag are raised.
A battalion of soldiers stands at attention as the National flag is raised.
Each soldier salute with pride while the commander and his assistants inspects the parade. The sound of marching feet echo through the air as a group of cadets prepare for their drill. Meanwhile, a convoy of military vehicles pass by, drawing cheers from the gathered crowd.
Ans: Each soldier salutes with pride while the commander and his assistants inspect the parade. The sound of marching feet echoes through the air as a group of cadets prepares for their drill. Meanwhile, a convoy of military vehicles passes by, drawing cheers from the gathered crowd.
Let us listen (Page 66)
I. You will listen to a talk about the Param Vir Chakra. As you listen, complete the sentences by filling in the blanks with one or two exact words or phrases you hear. (Transcript for teacher on page 98)
1. The Param Vir Chakra signifies the 'Wheel of the Ultimate ____________'.
1. The Param Vir Chakra signifies the 'Wheel of the Ultimate ____________'.
Ans: The Param Vir Chakra signifies the 'Wheel of the Ultimate Brave'.
2. The Param Vir Chakra is awarded to someone who shows exemplary bravery while fighting with the ____________.
Ans: The Param Vir Chakra is awarded to someone who shows exemplary bravery while fighting with the enemy.
3. The Param Vir Chakra was introduced as a Gallantry Medal in 1947by the ____________.
Ans: The Param Vir Chakra was introduced as a Gallantry Medal in 1947 by the President of India.
4. The design of the Param Vir Chakra is inspired by Sage Dadhichi, who was a ____________.
Ans: The design of the Param Vir Chakra is inspired by Sage Dadhichi, who was a Vedic rishi.
5. The state emblem in the centre of the Param Vir Chakra is surrounded by the Vajra and ____________.
Ans: The state emblem in the centre of the Param Vir Chakra is surrounded by the Vajra and lotus flowers.
Ans: The state emblem in the centre of the Param Vir Chakra is surrounded by the Vajra and lotus flowers.
Let us speak (Page 66)
I. As the citizens of a nation, we all must fulfil our duty. In groups of 4-5, speak about how you propose to serve your nation.You can choose from the themes given below:
You may use the sentence prompts given below to organise what you speak about.
• I believe one of the best ways to serve the nation is by...
• A small change we can make is... and it will have a big impact because...
• If everyone contributes by... it can lead to...
• One of the biggest challenges we face is... and I propose we address it by...
• We can make a difference by working together as a team, if we...
• Serving the nation is not just about big actions; even small efforts like...matter.
You may use the sentence prompts given below to organise what you speak about.
• I believe one of the best ways to serve the nation is by...
• A small change we can make is... and it will have a big impact because...
• If everyone contributes by... it can lead to...
• One of the biggest challenges we face is... and I propose we address it by...
• We can make a difference by working together as a team, if we...
• Serving the nation is not just about big actions; even small efforts like...matter.
Ans: This is a classroom activity. In groups of 4-5, discuss how to serve the nation using these prompts:
Example: I believe one of the best ways to serve the nation is by protecting the environment. A small change we can make is planting trees, and it will have a big impact because it improves air quality. If everyone contributes by recycling, it can lead to a cleaner and healthier country. One of the biggest challenges we face is pollution, and I propose we address it by reducing single-use plastic. Serving the nation also includes small, daily acts like being honest, studying well and helping neighbours.
Let us write (Page 67)
I. A letter of enquiry is a formal letter written to seek detailed information about something the writer wants to know. For example, it can be used for joining a course, organising an event, knowing details about a trip, etc. The language used is formal and specific, with relevant queries. Now, write a letter of enquiry. Your school wishes to organise a visit to a Memorial in your state/region. Write the letter to the person in charge of that memorial, requesting information regarding available dates for visits, the duration of the tour, any entry fees, and guidelines for student groups.
• Follow the given layout.
• Use the cues given below to draft the letter.
• Follow the given layout.
• Use the cues given below to draft the letter.
Ans:Your Address
[City, State, ZIP Code]
31 July 2025The In charge
National War Memorial
[City, State]Subject: Enquiry about a School Visit to the National War Memorial
Dear Sir/Madam,
This is to enquire about organizing a school visit to the National War Memorial for our students. Could you please provide details about available dates for visits? Secondly, I would appreciate it if you could explain the duration of the tour and any entry fees. Lastly, could you clarify if there are specific guidelines for student groups? An early reply will be greatly appreciated, as it will help us plan a meaningful trip.
Yours sincerely,
[Your Name]
Let us explore (Page 68)
I. Out of twenty-one PVC awardees, Major Somnath Sharma was the first recipient of the PVC, and Captain Vikram Batra was the last recipient of the PVC, the highest gallantry award. Captain Vikram Batra is popularly remembered as the "Shershah of Kargil". His iconic success signal was'Yeh Dil Mange More'. Captain Vikram Batra, the D Company commander, was tasked to capture Point 5140 on 20 June 1999, which he did with exemplary courage. After Point 5140 was captured, 13 JAK RIF was tasked to capture Point 4875. On 07 July 1999, Captain Batra led the assault from the front and engaged in a physical fight with the enemy. He killed five enemy soldiers at point-blank range and sustained serious injuries himself. Despite his injuries, his dauntless determination inspired his men to clear the enemy from a dominating position. Later, he succumbed to his injuries. His fearless determination and leadership encouraged his company men to avenge his death and finally capture Point 4875. His inspiring leadership, dedication to duty, and steadfast love for his country continue to be an inspiration for the younger generation. He attended the call of duty with absolute disregard for his safety. He was awarded the Param Vir Chakra (Posthumously).
II. Gallantry awards in India are given to military personnel and others for displaying extraordinary courage in the line of duty. Some of the gallantry awards in India are:
• Param Vir Chakra: The highest military award in India, awarded for the most conspicuous bravery in the presence of the enemy.
• Maha Vir Chakra: The second-highest military award in India, awarded for acts of gallantry in the presence of the enemy.
• Vir Chakra: Awarded for acts of gallantry in the presence of the enemy.
Find out more about gallantry awards.
II. Gallantry awards in India are given to military personnel and others for displaying extraordinary courage in the line of duty. Some of the gallantry awards in India are:
• Param Vir Chakra: The highest military award in India, awarded for the most conspicuous bravery in the presence of the enemy.
• Maha Vir Chakra: The second-highest military award in India, awarded for acts of gallantry in the presence of the enemy.
• Vir Chakra: Awarded for acts of gallantry in the presence of the enemy.
Find out more about gallantry awards.
Ans: Gallantry awards in India include:
- Param Vir Chakra: The Highest award for bravery against the enemy, like Major Somnath Sharma received.
- Maha Vir Chakra: Second-highest award for gallantry in battle.
- Vir Chakra: Given for courageous acts against the enemy.
III. The Indian government has been steadfast in its initiatives to boost the representation of women in the Indian Armed Forces. These women have been serving the nation selflessly and with pride. Find out the key roles of women in the Indian Army. Share the information with your classmates and teacher.
Ans: Women in the Indian Army serve as officers in many branches, including medical officers and nurses, engineers, logistics and signals, intelligence and training roles. They contribute to operations, administration and support services and have increasingly taken on combat and command responsibilities in certain roles.
IV. Birsa Munda: A Saga of Courage and Sacrifice Birsa Munda, a revered tribal freedom fighter, spiritual leader, and folk hero, belonged to the Munda tribe. Celebrated as an avenging warrior and a charismatic figure, he emerged as a powerful symbol of tribal resistance against British colonial rule. Among the people of Jharkhand, he is affectionately known as Dharti Aaba-Father of the Land-and is honoured as a divine figure for his selfless dedication to his people. A commemorative stamp designed by Shri Sankha Samanta captures his powerful presence. It features Birsa Munda addressing his followers with a determined expression that reflects his unwavering vision of tribal unity, empowerment, and self-governance. This stamp serves as a lasting tribute to his pivotal role in India's freedom struggle and his relentless commitment to protecting tribal rights.
V. Make a list of the patriotic songs in any language, including songs from your region. Share the songs with your classmates and teacher.
Ans: Examples of patriotic songs:
1. Vande Mataram
2. Jana Gana Mana
3. Ae Mere Watan Ke Logon
4. Mera Rang De Basanti Chola
5. Sare Jahan Se Achha
The document NCERT Solutions: A Tale of Valour: Major Somnath Sharma and the Battle of Badgam is a part of the Class 8 Course English Poorvi Class 8 - New NCERT.
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FAQs on NCERT Solutions: A Tale of Valour: Major Somnath Sharma and the Battle of Badgam
| 1. Who was Major Somnath Sharma and why is he important in Indian history? |  |
Ans. Major Somnath Sharma was a brave Indian Army officer who died fighting in the Battle of Badgam during the 1947-48 Kashmir conflict. He is remembered as a national hero for his exceptional courage and sacrifice while defending Indian territory against Pakistani forces. His valorous actions earned him the Ashoka Chakra, India's highest peacetime military decoration, making him a symbol of patriotism and duty for generations of students studying CBSE Class 8.
| 2. What exactly happened during the Battle of Badgam and why did Major Somnath Sharma die? | |
Ans. The Battle of Badgam was fought in November 1947 when Pakistani tribal forces invaded Kashmir. Major Somnath Sharma led his company in fierce combat to defend Badgam airfield and prevent enemy advancement. He was killed while fighting on the frontline, but his regiment held their ground due to his leadership and bravery. This pivotal military engagement demonstrated Indian soldiers' determination to protect national borders during the post-independence period.
| 3. How did Major Somnath Sharma show valor during the Battle of Badgam? | |
Ans. Major Somnath Sharma displayed exceptional valour by taking commanding positions in combat, directing his troops strategically under heavy enemy fire, and refusing to retreat despite overwhelming odds. He personally engaged in fierce fighting to protect the airfield's critical position. His heroic actions inspired his soldiers to fight with unwavering determination. His willingness to sacrifice his life for the nation exemplifies the true meaning of military heroism and patriotic duty in defending India's sovereignty.
| 4. What awards did Major Somnath Sharma receive for his bravery in the Battle of Badgam? | |
Ans. Major Somnath Sharma was posthumously awarded the Ashoka Chakra, India's highest military decoration for gallantry in peace and war. This recognition acknowledged his extraordinary courage and exceptional service during the Battle of Badgam. The Ashoka Chakra represents the nation's respect for soldiers who sacrifice their lives defending the country. His decoration remains an inspiration for military personnel and reminds citizens of the courage displayed by Indian armed forces during the 1947-48 Kashmir conflict.
| 5. What lessons about courage and duty can Class 8 students learn from Major Somnath Sharma's tale of valour? | |
Ans. Students learn that true courage means facing danger without fear when protecting what matters most, and that duty to one's nation transcends personal safety. Major Somnath Sharma's sacrifice teaches the importance of leadership, integrity, and unwavering commitment to principles. His story demonstrates how individual heroic actions contribute to national pride and historical significance. Studying this tale of valour helps students understand patriotism, responsibility, and the values that define a hero beyond classroom lessons.
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NCERT Solutions: A Tale of Valour: Major Somnath Sharma & the Battle of Badgam of English Poorvi Class 8 provides all the questions of NCERT textbook with detailed solutions. Download free PDF from EduRev.
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