Identity and Basic Information
Major Somnath Sharma was an officer of the Indian Army and the first recipient of the Param Vir Chakra, India’s highest military decoration for gallantry. He was awarded the decoration posthumously for his actions during the Battle of Badgam in the Indo-Pakistani War of 1947–48.
He was born on 31 January 1923 at Dadh, Kangra district, Punjab Province, British India (present-day Himachal Pradesh, India).
He died in action on 3 November 1947 at Badgam (Budgam), Jammu and Kashmir, at the age of 24.
Family Background
Major Somnath Sharma belonged to a military family. His father was Major General Amarnath Sharma, an officer in the Indian Army.
His younger brother General Vishwa Nath Sharma later served as the Chief of the Army Staff of the Indian Army.
His brother Lieutenant General Surinder Nath Sharma also served in the Indian Army.
Education and Commissioning
Major Sharma graduated from the Royal Military College and was commissioned into the 9th Battalion, 19th Hyderabad Regiment on 22 February 1942.
The regiment later became the 4th Battalion of the Kumaon Regiment of the Indian Army.
Military Service During World War II
During the Second World War, Major Sharma served in the Arakan Campaign in Burma, where he fought against Japanese forces.
He was mentioned in dispatches for his actions during the campaign, and the award was gazetted in January 1946.
Indo-Pakistani War of 1947–48
Background
On 22 October 1947, tribal forces supported by Pakistan invaded Jammu and Kashmir, initiating the conflict known as the Indo-Pakistani War of 1947–48.
On 27 October 1947, Indian Army troops were airlifted to Srinagar to respond to the invasion.
On 31 October 1947, D Company of the 4th Kumaon Regiment, commanded by Major Sharma, was flown to Srinagar.
At the time, Major Sharma’s left hand was in a plaster cast due to an injury sustained earlier, but he insisted on accompanying his company into combat.
Battle of Badgam (3 November 1947)
The Battle of Badgam took place on 3 November 1947 in the Kashmir Valley near Srinagar Airport.
Major Sharma commanded D Company of the 4th Kumaon Regiment during the engagement.
The Indian force consisted of approximately 50–70 troops, while the opposing tribal lashkar numbered around 1,000 men.
During the battle, Sharma’s company was surrounded from three sides and subjected to mortar fire.
Indian casualties were reported as 15–22 killed and 26 wounded, while the opposing force suffered 200–300 casualties.
Before he was killed, Major Sharma transmitted a message to Brigade Headquarters:
“The enemies are only 50 yards from us. We are hopelessly outnumbered. I will not withdraw one inch but fight to the last man last round.”
He was killed when a mortar shell exploded near a pile of ammunition.
His body was recovered three days later and identified through personal belongings.
Award of the Param Vir Chakra
Major Somnath Sharma was posthumously awarded the Param Vir Chakra for his actions during the Battle of Badgam.
The award was gazetted on 21 June 1950.
He became the first recipient of the Param Vir Chakra since its inception.
Operational Significance
The resistance of Major Sharma’s company delayed the advance of the attacking forces and allowed Indian troops to reinforce Srinagar.
The battle contributed to securing Srinagar and its airfield during the early phase of the conflict.
Legacy and Historical Record
Major Somnath Sharma is recorded as the first recipient of India’s highest military gallantry award.
His service record and actions during the Battle of Badgam are documented in Indian military history and official gallantry award records.