Major Somnath Sharma Biography: Major Somnath Sharma was one of the bravest officers of the Indian Army and a symbol of supreme sacrifice. He holds a unique place in Indian military history as the first-ever recipient of the Param Vir Chakra, India’s highest gallantry award. His life story is an inspiration for students, defence aspirants, and every Indian who believes in courage, duty, and patriotism.
Major Somnath Sharma Overview
| Topic | Information |
| Full Name | Major Somnath Sharma |
| Date of Birth | 31 January 1923 |
| Birth Place | Dadh village, Himachal Pradesh |
| Indian Army Rank | Major |
| Regiment | Kumaon Regiment |
| War Fought | Indo-Pak War of 1947 |
| Famous Battle | Battle of Badgam (Kashmir) |
| Age at Martyrdom | 24 years |
| Injury | Broken arm in plaster during battle |
| Biggest Achievement | First Param Vir Chakra winner |
| Award Given For | Great bravery and sacrifice |
| Date of Martyrdom | 3 November 1947 |
| Why He Is Remembered | Saved Srinagar by stopping enemy attack |
| Nature | Brave, loyal, fearless leader |
Major Somnath Sharma Early Life and Family Background
Major Somnath Sharma was born on 31 January 1923 in Dadh village, Kangra district (present-day Himachal Pradesh). He was born into a strong military family, where discipline and service to the nation were a way of life.
His father, Major General Amar Nath Sharma, served in the British Indian Army. His family produced several senior officers for India, making it one of the most respected military families in the country. This environment deeply influenced Somnath Sharma from a young age and inspired him to join the armed forces.
From childhood, he showed qualities like leadership, courage, honesty, and responsibility, which later became the foundation of his military life.
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Major Somnath Sharma Education and Military Training
Major Somnath Sharma completed his schooling at Sherwood College, Nainital, a well-known institution that focused on character building along with studies. Later, he studied at the Prince of Wales Royal Military College, now known as Rashtriya Indian Military College (RIMC), Dehradun.
After that, he went to the Royal Military Academy, Sandhurst (UK) for advanced military training. Sandhurst is one of the most prestigious military academies in the world and has trained many legendary officers.
His education and training helped shape him into a disciplined, confident, and fearless officer, ready to serve the nation under any condition.
Major Somnath Sharma Indian Army Career
Major Somnath Sharma was commissioned into the Indian Army on 22 February 1942. He joined the 4th Battalion of the 19th Hyderabad Regiment, which later became part of The Kumaon Regiment.
During World War II, he served in the Arakan Campaign in Burma (Myanmar). Even at a young age, he showed exceptional bravery and leadership. For his courage in World War II, he was Mentioned in Dispatches, a prestigious recognition for gallantry.
His seniors and fellow soldiers admired him for his calm nature, clear thinking under pressure, and care for his men.
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Major Somnath Sharma Indo-Pak War of 1947 and Battle of Badgam
In 1947, soon after India gained independence, the country faced the Indo-Pak War of 1947, especially in Jammu and Kashmir. Tribal fighters supported by Pakistan attacked Kashmir with the aim of capturing Srinagar.
At that time, Major Somnath Sharma was given a very critical mission — to defend the area near Srinagar Airport, which was vital for bringing Indian Army reinforcements.
Even though he had a fractured arm in a plaster cast, he refused to stay behind. His dedication to duty was stronger than his personal pain.
On 3 November 1947, Major Sharma led his company to Badgam village, where they faced a much larger enemy force. His troops were outnumbered many times, but retreat was not an option.
Major Somnath Sharma Supreme Bravery at Badgam
During the Battle of Badgam, Major Somnath Sharma showed extraordinary courage and leadership. He moved from one position to another under heavy enemy fire, motivating his soldiers and guiding them personally.
When ammunition started running low, he distributed ammo himself, even with his injured arm. He continuously sent situation reports to headquarters, ensuring that higher command knew the seriousness of the battle.
Despite intense firing and mortar attacks, he kept fighting. Finally, a mortar shell exploded near his position, and Major Somnath Sharma was martyred while defending his post.
His heroic stand delayed the enemy advance, which proved crucial. Because of his sacrifice, Indian forces got enough time to strengthen the defence of Srinagar and protect Kashmir.
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Major Somnath Sharma Param Vir Chakra – India’s First
For his most conspicuous bravery, outstanding leadership, and supreme sacrifice, Major Somnath Sharma was posthumously awarded the Param Vir Chakra.
He became the first Param Vir Chakra awardee in Indian history. His citation highlights his fearless leadership, devotion to duty, and complete disregard for personal safety.
The Param Vir Chakra is awarded only for acts of highest bravery in the presence of the enemy, and Major Sharma’s actions set the highest standard for this honor.
Major Somnath Sharma Legacy and Inspiration
Major Somnath Sharma is remembered as a true national hero. His story is taught in schools, military academies, and defence training institutes across India.
Memorials, roads, and institutions have been named after him. His life continues to inspire:
- Defence aspirants preparing for NDA, CDS, and AFCAT
- Students learning about Indian freedom and sacrifices
- Citizens who value courage and patriotism
His sacrifice reminds us that freedom and security come at a great cost, paid by brave soldiers like him.
Why Major Somnath Sharma is Remembered Today?
Major Somnath Sharma’s biography is not just a war story; it is a lesson in:
- Leadership under pressure
- Duty before self
- Courage against impossible odds
- True patriotism
He proved that age and injury do not matter when the nation comes first.
Conclusion
The life of Major Somnath Sharma, PVC, is a shining chapter in Indian military history. From a disciplined childhood to heroic martyrdom at the Battle of Badgam, his journey reflects honor, bravery, and sacrifice.
Major Somnath Sharma Biography FAQs
1. Who was Major Somnath Sharma?
Ans: Major Somnath Sharma was an officer of the Indian Army and the first soldier to receive the Param Vir Chakra, India’s highest gallantry award, for his brave sacrifice in the 1947 war.
2. Why is Major Somnath Sharma famous in Indian history?
Ans: He is famous for showing extraordinary bravery during the Battle of Badgam in 1947, where he fought against a much larger enemy force and protected Srinagar Airport, even with an injured arm.
3. Which war did Major Somnath Sharma fight in?
Ans: He fought in World War II and later in the Indo-Pak War of 1947, where he was martyred while defending Jammu and Kashmir.
4. What is the Param Vir Chakra awarded for?
Ans: The Param Vir Chakra is given for the highest level of bravery shown in battle in front of the enemy. Major Somnath Sharma was the first soldier to receive this honor posthumously.
5. How does Major Somnath Sharma inspire students and youth today?
Ans: His life teaches courage, leadership, patriotism, and putting the nation before self. His story motivates students, defence aspirants, and citizens to serve the country with dedication.