Class 8 English Chapter 4 Solutions: A Tale Of Valour Major Somnath Sharma

I. Work in pairs. Share your answers with your classmates and teacher.

1. What do you think about the Republic Day Parade on 26 January?
Answer:
India became a Republic on 26 January 1950. To honour this historic day, Republic Day is celebrated every year on 26 January. A grand parade is organised at Rajpath in New Delhi, and the President of India hoists the National Flag to mark the occasion.

2. What are the highlights of this parade?
Answer:
A special foreign guest is invited to attend the Republic Day parade. The armed forces take part in an impressive march past, and different states showcase their cultural floats during the parade.

3. What bravery awards are given on this day, and who receives them?
Answer:
The awards presented on Republic Day include the Param Vir Chakra, Maha Vir Chakra, Vir Chakra, Ashoka Chakra, Kirti Chakra and Shaurya Chakra. These honours are given to the brave personnel of the armed forces.

II. Work in groups of four and discuss.

1. What qualities do you think a soldier should have?
Answer:
A good soldier must have courage, discipline, and the ability to adapt in order to perform well in the military.

2. If you had to share a message with’ a soldier, what would it be?
Answer:
I would like to tell a soldier that the entire nation loves and respects him/her for the willingness to risk his/her life for the country. Every citizen stands with them, offering support and prayers.

A Tale of Valour: Major Somnath Sharma and the Battle of Badgam Class 8 Question Answer – 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.

Class 8 English A Tale of Valour: Major Somnath Sharma and the Battle of Badgam Question Answer – 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 deeply committed to his duty and wanted to inspire his soldiers to fight with courage 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. Bom 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:
Major General Amar Nath Sharma 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

II. Answer the following questions.

1. ‘Major Somnath’s legacy of courage and devotion to the nation remains forever alive, forever qlive…’What is the significance of the repetition in this line?

Answer:
The repeated use of the phrase “forever alive” highlights the enduring influence of Major Somnath’s courage and dedication. It shows that his sacrifice is not just a historical event, but a timeless inspiration for generations to come.

2. Why do you think Major Somnath’s leadership was critical during the Battle of Badgam?

Answer:
Major Somnath’s leadership played a crucial role in the Battle of Badgam. He stayed calm under pressure, encouraged his men to fight boldly even when they were heavily outnumbered, and took important decisions like calling for air strikes. His courage and presence inspired his troops to stand firm, giving reinforcements enough time to reach and protect Srinagar.

3. What were Major Somnath’s last words? What do they reflect about his sense of duty?
Answer:
Major Somnath’s final words were: “The enemy is only 50 yards away. We are greatly outnumbered and under heavy fire. I will not retreat even an inch; I will fight till the last man and the last round.”

These words reveal his unwavering dedication to his mission and his readiness to give his life for the nation. They highlight his strong sense of duty, courage, and true leadership.

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 stood their ground, the infiltrators could have taken control of the Srinagar airport and nearby regions. This might have resulted in Kashmir falling into Pakistan’s hands in 1947, which would have greatly altered the course of India’s history.

5. Why do you think Major Somnath’s story continues to inspire soldiers and civilians today?

Answer:
Major Somnath’s story inspires people because it represents courage, patriotism, and selfless sacrifice. Even after being injured, he continued to lead from the front and chose to fight against impossible odds instead of retreating. His devotion to the nation serves as a strong example—not only for soldiers protecting the country but also for civilians who try to live by strong values in their everyday lives.

6. How can the values demonstrated by Major Somnath Sharma—courage, duty, and self-sacrifice—be applied in our daily lives?

Answer:
These values teach us to face difficulties with courage, take responsibility for what we do, and think about others before ourselves. By helping those in need, standing up for what is right, and staying dedicated to our goals, we can honour his legacy through integrity, responsibility, and compassion.

A Tale of Valour: Major Somnath Sharma and the Battle of Badgam Class 8 Questions and Answers – 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:

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:

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.

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:
1. Overestimate-Don’t overestimate your ability to finish the project in just one day.

2. Overlook – She overlooked a small detail that caused the entire plan to fail.

3. Overreact-//e tends to overreact to even minor criticism.

4. Overwork-//- you overwork yourself, you’ll end up feeling exhausted and burned out.

5. Overslept-/ missed the bus because I overslept this morning.

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

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:
Every soldier salutes with pride as the commander and his assistants review the parade. The rhythmic sound of marching feet fills the air while a group of cadets gets ready for their drill. At the same time, a line of military vehicles moves past, earning loud cheers from the crowd.

A Tale of Valour: Major Somnath Sharma and the Battle of Badgam Question Answer Class 8 – 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. Brave
2. Enemy
3. Dr. Rajendra Prasad, the then President of India.
4. a Vedic rishi
5. lotus flowers

Class 8 English Chapter 4 Question Answer – 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 think one of the best ways to serve our nation is by protecting the environment. Our natural resources are limited, so we must start taking steps now to preserve them for future generations.

Student 2: A simple change we can make is using cloth bags instead of plastic ones. This small habit can make a big difference because plastic takes hundreds of years to decompose and harms animals and water bodies.

Student 3: If everyone helps by reducing waste, planting trees, and saving water, it can lead to cleaner air, better health, and a more sustainable life for all of us.

Student 4: One major challenge is people’s lack of awareness and careless habits. I suggest we organise awareness drives in schools and neighbourhoods to teach eco-friendly practices.

Student 5: We can create real change by working together. Starting local projects like cleanliness drives, food banks, or tutoring sessions for underprivileged children can make a meaningful impact.

Student 1: Serving the nation isn’t only about big acts; even small gestures like being kind, listening to someone’s problems, or helping a neighbour can make a difference.

NCERT Class 8 English Poorvi Chapter 4 Question Answer – Let us write (Pages 67-68)

I. Read about ;
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:
Green Valley Public School
Sector 10, Lakeview Road
Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh – 462003
17 May 2025

The Incharge
Shaheed Smarak Memorial
Central Square, Bhopal – 462001

Subject: Enquiry Regarding a School Visit to the Memorial

Dear Sir,

I am writing to enquire about organising an educational visit to the Shaheed Smarak Memorial for students of Classes IX and X. The purpose of this trip is to help students understand our nation’s history and pay respect to the sacrifices made by our martyrs. I request information regarding the procedures and formalities required for arranging such a visit.

Firstly, kindly share the available dates for group visits in the upcoming month. Secondly, I would like to know the duration of the tour and whether guided tours are offered to school groups.

I would also appreciate details about the entry fee structure, including any discounts applicable for school students. Additionally, please inform us if there are any specific guidelines or safety measures we must follow while bringing a student group.

An early response will be highly appreciated, as it will assist us in planning the schedule and completing the necessary approvals. I look forward to your guidance and support in making this visit informative and meaningful for our students.

Yours sincerely,
Ananya Sharma
Cultural Activities Coordinator
Green Valley Public School

Class 8th English Chapter 4 A Tale of Valour: Major Somnath Sharma and the Battle of Badgam Question Answer – 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

Gallantry awards in India are given to military personnel and others who show exceptional courage while performing their duty. Some of the major gallantry awards are:

• Param Vir Chakra: India’s highest military honour, awarded for the most outstanding bravery in the presence of the enemy.
  
  

• Maha Vir Chakra: The second-highest military award, given for acts of exceptional courage during battle.
  
  

• Vir Chakra: Awarded for acts of bravery in the presence of the enemy.
  
  

You can explore more about gallantry awards to understand their importance and history.

III. Key Roles of Women in the Indian Army

The Government of India has taken strong steps to increase women’s participation in the Armed Forces. Women serve the nation with courage, commitment, and pride. Here are some of their major roles:

1. Officer Ranks

Women can serve as commissioned officers in several branches of the Army.
They join through the Short Service Commission (SSC), and now many branches also offer Permanent Commission (PC) to women.

2. Combat Support and Services

Women actively work in various important support roles, such as:

• Army Medical Corps
  
  

• Army Education Corps
  
  

• Judge Advocate General (military law)
  
  

• Signals and Engineering units
  
  

• Intelligence and Military Police
  
  

3. Corps of Military Police (CMP)

In 2020, the Army started recruiting women soldiers (non-officer ranks) for the first time. Their responsibilities include:

• Managing law and order within Army establishments
  
  

• Handling female offenders
  
  

• Leading gender-sensitive operations
  
  

4. Peacekeeping and UN Missions

Women officers have represented India in United Nations peacekeeping missions. They often serve as leaders, inspiring communities in conflict-affected regions.

5. Leadership Roles

Women have taken up significant administrative and operational leadership positions.

A notable example is Lt. Gen. Punita Arora, the first woman in the Indian Armed Forces to achieve the rank of Lieutenant General.

Recent Progress and Achievements

• In 2020, the Supreme Court allowed women to receive Permanent Commission in various non-combat branches.
  
  

• Since 2021, women have been training at the National Defence Academy (NDA).
  
  

• Women are now eligible for command roles similar to their male counterparts.
  
  

Conclusion

Women in the Indian Army have consistently shown bravery, discipline, and dedication. Their increasing participation reflects India’s progress toward gender equality and stands as a proud example of national strength.

IV. Birsa Munda: A Saga of Courage and Sacrifice

Birsa Munda, a respected tribal freedom fighter, spiritual guide, and folk hero, belonged to the Munda tribe. Known for his bravery and strong leadership, he became a powerful symbol of tribal resistance against British rule. The people of Jharkhand lovingly call him Dharti Aaba, meaning Father of the Land, and regard him as a divine figure for his selfless service to his community.

A commemorative stamp designed by Shri Sankha Samanta beautifully portrays his inspiring presence. It shows Birsa Munda addressing his followers with a determined expression, reflecting his firm belief in tribal unity, empowerment, and self-governance. The stamp stands as a lasting tribute to his important role in India’s freedom struggle and his unwavering efforts to uphold 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.

A Tale of Valour: Major Somnath Sharma and the Battle of Badgam – NCERT Solutions Class 8 English Poorvi Chapter 4 (2025-26)

Studying Major Somnath Sharma’s bravery in Class 8 English helps students grasp the importance of courage and patriotism. By focusing on exercise questions, learners gain deeper insight into how selfless sacrifice contributes to the country's well-being.

This chapter is essential for building character and enhancing exam preparedness. Review each section thoroughly, pay attention to key events and leadership qualities displayed by Major Sharma, and practice the solutions for strong comprehension.

Regularly solving chapter-wise NCERT questions sharpens your exam skills. Spotting important details and reflecting on Major Sharma’s determination inspires students to persevere and excel in their studies for the 2025-26 academic session.