CHAPTER 4- 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.

Question 1.
What do you think about the Republic Day Parade on 26 January?
Answer:
India became a Republic on 26 January 1950. To honor this historic occasion, Republic Day is celebrated every year with great pride. A grand parade is organized at Rajpath in New Delhi, where the President of India hoists the National Flag.

Question 2.
What are the highlights of this parade?
Answer:
The Republic Day parade includes the presence of a foreign chief guest, a ceremonial march past by the armed forces, and colorful tableaux displayed by different states showcasing their culture and achievements.

Question 3.
What bravery awards are given on this day, and who receives them?
Answer:
On this day, gallantry awards such as the Param Vir Chakra, Mahavir Chakra, Vir Chakra, Ashoka Chakra, Kirti Chakra, and Shaurya Chakra are conferred. These honors are awarded to the brave personnel of the armed forces for their acts of courage and valor.

II. Work in groups of four and discuss.

Question 1.
What qualities do you think a soldier should have?
Answer:
A soldier should possess courage, discipline, loyalty, and the ability to adapt to any situation in order to serve the nation effectively.

Question 2.
If you had to share a message with’ a soldier, what would it be?
Answer:
I would like to convey to a soldier that the entire nation deeply values and respects their dedication and sacrifice. Their bravery is supported by the gratitude and prayers of all the people of the country.

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)
Answer:

1 → 4 → 6 → 3 → 5 → 7 → 2 → 8

Let us think and reflect (Pages 59-61)

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 own 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.
Answer:
B. There was intense fighting on the battlefield.

(ii) Complete the sentence with a suitable reason.
Despite heavy casualties, Major Somnath Sharma continued to lead his men because __________.
Answer:

He was strongly devoted to his duty and aimed to motivate his soldiers to fight with bravery and determination.

(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.
Answer:
A. Both (A) and (R) are true, and (R) is the correct explanation of (A).

(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)
Answer:
injuries

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.
Answer:
C. His family and heritage inspired his bravery and sense of duty.

(ii) Identify whether the following statement is true or false:
Somnath Sharma belonged to a wealthy family.
Answer:
False.

(iii) What does the phrase ‘served the nation with distinction’ tell us about Major General Amar Nath Sharma? (He performed his duties with exceptional dedication, honour, and excellence./He was highly respected for his contributions to the country.)
Answer:
The phrase ‘served the nation with distinction’ tell us about Major General Amar Nath Sharma that he performed his duties with exceptional dedication, honour, and excellence.

(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.
Answer:
picturesque

My family and I visited a popular hill station and stayed in an old but picturesque house surrounded by trees.

II. Answer the following questions.

Question 1.
‘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?
Answer:
The repetition of the phrase ‘forever alive’ highlights the eternal impact of Major Somnath’s bravery and patriotism. It signifies that his sacrifice will always be remembered as a source of inspiration for generations to come.

Question 2.
Why do you think Major Somnath’s leadership was critical during the Battle of Badgam?
Answer:
Major Somnath’s leadership was vital during the Battle of Badgam as he stayed composed in the face of adversity, motivated his men to fight courageously against heavy odds, and made crucial decisions like calling for air support. His courage boosted the morale of his troops and helped secure time for reinforcements to protect Srinagar.

Question 3.
What were Major Somnath’s last words? What do they reflect about his sense of duty?
Answer:
Major Somnath’s 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 reflect his unwavering dedication to his mission, his fearless spirit, and his readiness to sacrifice his life for the nation’s defence.

Question 4.
What might have been the outcome of the Battle of Badgam if Major Somnath and his company had not held their ground?
Answer:
If Major Somnath and his company had not resisted, the infiltrators could have taken control of the Srinagar airport and its nearby areas. This might have resulted in the loss of Kashmir to Pakistan in 1947, drastically altering the course of Indian history.

Question 5.
Why do you think Major Somnath’s story continues to inspire soldiers and civilians today?
Answer:
Major Somnath’s story inspires both soldiers and civilians because it reflects immense courage, patriotism, and selfless sacrifice. His decision to lead from the front and stand firm against overwhelming challenges serves as a timeless example of dedication and integrity.

Question 6.
How can the values demonstrated by Major Somnath Sharma—courage, duty, and self-sacrifice—be applied in our daily lives?
Answer:
These values encourage us to confront challenges with bravery, take responsibility for our actions, and prioritize the needs of others. By helping those in distress, standing up for truth and justice, and staying committed to our goals, we can live by his ideals and honour his legacy.

Let us learn (Pages 62-66)

I. Match the expressions from the text in Column 1 with the most suitable situations given in Column 2.

Answer:

Here is the matching between Column 1 and Column 2:

Now, complete the following sentences using the expressions from Column 1.

A. The detective managed to ______________ by fiding 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.
Answer:
A. foil the plan
B. deliver a blow
C. hold their ground
D. fight to the last man

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.

Answer:

Here is the matching between Column 1 and Column 2:

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.
B. The admiral ordered the entire __________ to set sail for battle.
C. The __________ of infantry advanced slowly through the dense forest.
D. A __________ of fighter jets was sent to intercept the enemy planes.
Answer:
A. regiment
B. fleet
C. battalion
D. squadron

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.–

        OVERWHELM, OVERTHROW, OVERRUN

Meanings
1. To take and seize control: __________
2. To invade or occupy an area in large numbers: __________
3. To flood or overpower someone or something emotionally: __________
Answer:
1. overthrow
2. overrun
3. overwhelm

Now, create a list of at least five other verbs that begin with ‘over’ and frame sentences of your own.
Answer:

Here is a list of five verbs beginning with “over” along with example sentences:

1. Overcome
   Sentence: She was determined to overcome all obstacles and achieve her goals.
2. Overlook
   Sentence: The manager decided to overlook the minor mistake and focus on the overall performance.
3. Overthrow
   Sentence: The rebels tried to overthrow the government but were unsuccessful.
4. Overestimate
   Sentence: We shouldn’t overestimate the time required to complete this project.
5. Overwhelm
   Sentence: The sudden surge of visitors began to overwhelm the small museum.

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)
2. The musician believes that daily (i) ____________ helps a lot, so she is always ready to (ii) ____________ her harmonium lessons. (practice/practise)
3. The scientist uses a strange (i) ____________ for experiments and plans to (ii) ____________ new methods for his analysis. (device/devise)
4. The village (i) ____________ met to discuss issues and decided to (ii) ____________ the villagers on important matters. (council/counsel)
Answer:
1. (i) advice (ii) advise
2. (i) practice (ii) practise
3. (i) device (ii) devise
4. (i) council (ii) counsel

Here is the distinction between the pairs:

1. (i) advice (noun) – a suggestion or recommendation about what someone should do.(ii) advise (verb) – to offer suggestions or recommendations.
2. (i) practice (noun) – the act of doing something repeatedly to improve a skill.            (ii) practise (verb) – to perform or carry out an activity repeatedly (mainly British English).

3. (i) device (noun) – a tool or piece of equipment designed for a particular purpose.
   (ii) devise (verb) – to plan or invent something by careful thought.
4. (i) council (noun) – a group of people convened for advice or decision-making.         (ii) counsel (noun/verb) – advice given formally (noun); to give advice (verb).

Read the highlighted word in the following sentence from the text.

Most importantly, his story is a reminder of the sacrifices made by countless men and women in defence of the motherland. 

In terms of meaning, there is no difference between the two words (defence, defense). In American English the word is spelt with an ‘s’, whereas in British English it is spelt with a ‘c’, which is the preferred spelling. The word has several different meanings, but it is mostly used to mean ‘the act of protecting someone or something against attack or criticism’.

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.
2. Neither the teacher nor the students __________ (was/were) aware of the change in the schedule.
3. Each of the participants __________ (has/have) submitted their projects on time.
4. The data collected by the researchers __________ (shows/show) significant trends.
5. One of the players __________ (was/were) injured during the match.
6. Either the children or their guardian __________ (has/have) to attend the meeting.
7. A pair of shoes __________ (is/are) missing from the rack.
8. Neither of the statements __________ (is/are) true.
9. The members of the jury __________ (has deliver/have delivered) their verdict to the court.
10. Mathematics __________ (is/are) an interesting subject for many students.
Answer:
1. is     2. were      3. has      4. show       5. was
6. has     7. is        8. is      9. have delivered    10. is

VI. Read the following passage and correct the incorrect usage of verbs. One example has been done for you.
A battalion of soldiejs 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.

Answer:

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.

Explanation of corrections:

1. salute → salutes → Subject “Each soldier” is singular → verb must be singular.
2. inspects → inspect → Subject is plural (“commander and his assistants”) → verb must be plural.
3. echo → echoes → Subject “The sound” is singular → verb must be singular.
4. prepare → prepares → Subject “a group” is singular (though it refers to many, grammar treats it as one group).
5. pass → passes → Subject “a convoy” is singular.

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. 

(Refer to the NCERT Textbook Page 98 for Transcript) 

1. The Param Vir Chakra signifies the Wheel of the Ultimate __________. 

2. The Param Vir Chakra is awarded to someone who shows exemplary bravery while fighting with the __________ 

3. The Param Vir Chakra was introduced as a Gallantry Medal in 1947 by the __________ 

4. The design of the Param Vir Chakra is inspired by Sage Dadhichi, who was a __________ 

5. The state emblem in the centre of the Param Vir Chakra is surrounded by the Vajra and __________ 

Answer:1. Brave2. Enemy3. Dr. Rajendra Prasad, the then President of India.4. a Vedic rishi5. lotus flowers

Let us speak (Pages 66-67)

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:

• Saving the environment
• Health and well-being
• Helping others
• Righteous conduct

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.

Answer:

Student 1: I believe one of the most important ways to serve the nation is by protecting the environment. Our natural resources are limited, so we must take action now to preserve them for future generations.

Student 2: A simple change we can make is to use cloth bags instead of plastic ones, which will have a significant impact since plastic takes hundreds of years to break down and harms wildlife and water bodies.

Student 3: If everyone contributes by minimizing waste, planting trees, and saving water, it will lead to cleaner air, improved health, and a sustainable future for everyone.

Student 4: One of the biggest challenges is the lack of awareness and careless habits, and I suggest we tackle this by conducting awareness campaigns in schools and communities to teach people about eco-friendly habits.

Student 5: We can create a real difference by working together as a team, starting with local initiatives like cleanliness drives, food banks, or tutoring programs for underprivileged children.

Student 1: Serving the nation isn’t only about large deeds; even small acts like showing kindness, listening to someone’s concerns, or helping a neighbor are valuable contributions.

Let us write (Pages 67-68)

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 incharge of that memorial requesting for 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.

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 incharge of that memorial requesting for information regarding available dates for visits, the duration of the tour, any entry fees, and guidelines for student groups.

Answer:

Kendriya Vidyalaya GC CRPF Agartala
Manvi Sharma
Cultural Activities Coordinator

17 May 2025

The Incharge
The Albert Ekka War Memorial
VIP Road, Lichubagan
Agartala, Tripura – 799010

Subject: Enquiry about Organising a School Visit to Albert Ekka War Memorial

Dear Sir,

I am writing to enquire about the possibility of arranging a visit to the Albert Ekka War Memorial at VIP Road, Lichubagan, Agartala, Tripura, for students of classes IX and X from Kendriya Vidyalaya GC CRPF Agartala. The purpose of the visit is to help students learn about our nation’s history and honour the sacrifices of our martyrs.

Kindly provide details regarding the procedures and formalities required to organise this visit.

Firstly, please share the available dates for group visits in the coming month. Additionally, I would appreciate information about the duration of the tour and whether guided tours are provided.

I would also like to know if there are any entry fees for school groups and if any discounts are applicable for students. Lastly, please clarify if there are any specific rules or safety protocols we need to follow while bringing a group of students.

An early response would be greatly appreciated to help us plan the visit and seek the necessary approvals. I look forward to your support in making this trip meaningful and educational for our students.

Yours sincerely,
Manvi Sharma
Cultural Activities Coordinator
Kendriya Vidyalaya GC CRPF Agartala

Let us explore (Pages 68-69)

Out of twenty-one PVC awardees, Major Somnath Sharma was the fist recipient of the PVC, and Captain Vikram Batra was the last recipient of the PVC, the highest gallantry award. soldiers at point blank range and himself sustained serious injuries. 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 fially captured Point 4875. 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 fiht with the enemy. He killed fie enemy soldiers at point blank range and himself sustained serious injuries. 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 fially captured 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 personal 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.

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.

ANSWER-

Women play diverse and crucial roles in the Indian Armed Forces, contributing significantly to the nation’s defense and security with pride and dedication. Here are the key roles of women in the Indian Army and other branches of the armed forces:

1. Commissioned Officers: Women serve as commissioned officers in various branches of the Indian Army in technical, logistics, medical, legal, education, and combat support roles. They also serve in the Indian Air Force (IAF) and Indian Navy, expanding their presence across multiple domains.
2. Fighter and Helicopter Pilots: Since 2016, women have been inducted as fighter pilots and helicopter pilots in the Indian Air Force. Notable pioneers include Avani Chaturvedi, Bhawana Kanth, and Mohana Singh. Women pilots have flown combat missions and participate in operational roles.
3. Medical Corps: Women constitute a significant part of the Armed Forces Medical Services, serving as doctors, surgeons, and nurses. They provide critical medical care to soldiers both in peacetime and during conflicts.
4. Judicial and Legal Branches: Women officers serve in the Judge Advocate General (JAG) branch, handling legal affairs, military law, and courts-martial.
5. Training and Instruction: Senior women officers act as instructors at prestigious military training academies such as the Officers Training Academy (OTA) in Chennai, the Indian Military Academy (IMA) in Dehradun, and the Air Force Academy in Dundigal.
6. Central Armed Police Forces: Women officers serve in supervisory combat roles in forces like the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), Border Security Force (BSF), Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB), and Central Industrial Security Force (CISF).
7. Emerging Roles and Opportunities: Women are now being considered for permanent commissions and command positions, with the Supreme Court granting them the right to serve until retirement and compete for promotions in various operational roles.

The increasing inclusion of women in combat and leadership roles reflects gradual progress toward gender equality in the Indian Armed Forces. Their service spans multiple capacities, showing dedication, skill, and professionalism that inspire future generations.

This overview can be shared with classmates and teachers to highlight the vital contributions and evolving opportunities for women in India’s defense sector.

IV. Birsa Munda: A Saga of Courage and Sacrifie Birsa Munda, a revered tribal freedom fihter, spiritual leader, and folk hero, belonged to the Munda tribe. Celebrated as a valiant warrior and a charismatic fiure, he emerged as a powerful symbol of tribal resistance against British colonial rule. Among the people of Jharkhand, he is affctionately known as Dharti Aaba—Father of the Land—and is honoured as a divine fiure for his selflss 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 reflcts 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.

Answer:Do it yourself.

Popular Hindi Patriotic Songs

1. Vande Mataram – Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay
2. Saare Jahan Se Achchha – Muhammad Iqbal
3. Ae Watan Watan Mere Aabad Rahe Tu – Film Raazi
4. Maa Tujhe Salaam – A. R. Rahman
5. Aye Mere Watan Ke Logon – Lata Mangeshkar
6. Chhodo Kal Ki Baatein – Film Hum Hindustani
7. Desh Rangeela – Film Fanaa
8. Kandho Se Milte Hain Kandhe – Film Lakshya

Regional Songs (Examples)

• Tamil: Tamil Thaai Vazhthu (state song), Thaayin Manikodi
• Bengali: Ekla Chalo Re (Rabindranath Tagore), Banglar Mati Banglar Jol
• Kannada: Huttidare Kannada Nadalli Huttabeku
• Telugu: Jaya Jaya Priya Bharathi
• Punjabi: Ae Watan Mere Watan (folk style versions), Desh Nu Salaam
• Marathi: Jayostute

English Patriotic Songs (for global awareness)

• We Shall Overcome
• This Land Is Your Land
• God Bless America