In the early days of India’s independence, as the new nation struggled to integrate disparate regions and establish its political unity, the Indian Army was called upon not only to maintain internal security but also to uphold the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the nation. One of its earliest critical operations was the Indo-Pakistan War of 1947-48, which included fierce fighting along the border town of Tithwal in Jammu & Kashmir.
Among the many acts of gallantry during this turbulent period, the courage and sacrifice of Piru Singh Shekhawat stand out in Indian military history. His actions during the battle for a key position south of Tithwal earned him the Param Vir Chakra posthumously — the first person to be awarded this highest wartime gallantry honour.
Historical Context: The Indo-Pakistan War (1947-48)
The conflict between India and Pakistan over the princely state of Jammu & Kashmir began soon after Partition in 1947. Following the accession of the Maharaja of Kashmir to India, tribal militias and irregular forces supported by Pakistan initiated an invasion into the state, prompting the Indian Army to intervene.
The war, fought in extremely challenging terrain — including mountains, valleys, and narrow passes — was marked by uncertainty, supply difficulties, and harsh weather. One critical theatre of this campaign was around Tithwal, a town located north of the Kashmir Valley, where control of ridges and dominating heights influenced artillery and infantry movements.
It was in this operational environment that Piru Singh’s courage was put to the test.
Unit and Assignment
Piru Singh was serving with the 6th Battalion, Rajputana Rifles, one of the infantry battalions committed to the conflict. Infantry formations such as this were tasked with offensive and defensive missions on ground where mechanised support was minimal and engagements often occurred at close range.
These units were often required to advance under heavy fire, clear enemy positions, and secure terrain that was both tactically significant and difficult to access. Such was the condition around Tithwal, where high ground and ridgelines dominated approaches.
The Battle for the Ridge, 18 July 1948
The key engagement in which Piru Singh distinguished himself occurred on 18 July 1948, during an operation intended to dislodge entrenched enemy forces from a fortified ridgeline overlooking Indian positions.
As the assault began, his company encountered fierce resistance from enemy positions protected by medium machine guns and rifle fire. This put the attacking infantry at a significant disadvantage, as the fire was coming from elevated and well-concealed positions, typical of defensive tactics in mountainous terrain.
Act of Extraordinary Gallantry
Despite being wounded in the initial onslaught, Piru Singh refused to withdraw or seek cover. Instead, he continued to press forward.
Showing exceptional determination:
- He rushed forward alone, despite heavy machine-gun fire.
- He reached the enemy post, engaging the defenders at close quarters.
- His actions neutralised multiple enemy machine-gun positions, turning the tide for his unit.
Even after sustaining severe injuries, he continued to fight. It was only after his ammunition was exhausted and he was critically wounded that he fell. His sacrifice ensured that his platoon could continue the assault and secure the objective.
Param Vir Chakra Honour
For his conspicuous bravery and self-sacrifice in the face of overwhelming odds, Company Havildar Major Piru Singh Shekhawat was posthumously awarded the Param Vir Chakra, India’s highest award for valour in the face of the enemy.
The award citation emphasises his:
- Exceptional bravery under direct and sustained enemy fire
- Leadership by example
- Refusal to abandon his men despite grievous wounds
His actions epitomised the spirit of the infantry soldier: courage, resolve, and duty above self.
Strategic and Symbolic Significance
Piru Singh’s sacrifice came at a critical stage in the 1947-48 war. The Indian Army was still organising itself after independence, and experienced officers and soldiers were adapting to the operational and logistical challenges of a major conflict.
His actions had both tactical and symbolic consequences:
- Tactically, they helped secure a key position, reducing pressure on Indian defensive lines.
- Symbolically, his gallantry set an early example for future generations of Indian soldiers at a time when the armed forces were defining their identity and ethos.
Remembering a Hero
Today, Company Havildar Major Piru Singh Shekhawat is remembered not only for the award he received, but for the ethos he embodied — complete dedication to mission, fellow soldiers, and country.
His story is one of the earliest illustrations of India’s military courage in combat, a powerful reminder that heroism does not depend on technology or numbers, but on individual resolve in the face of danger.
For readers seeking to understand the human dimension of India’s early military history, his story provides both insight and inspiration.