Who was the first Recipient of Param Vir Chakra?
VerifiedAnswer: Major Somanath Sharma
Explanation:
Major Somanath Sharma holds the distinguished honor of being the first recipient of India's highest military decoration, the Param Vir Chakra. This brave soldier from the 4th Battalion, Kumaon Regiment, received this prestigious award posthumously for his extraordinary courage and supreme sacrifice during the Indo-Pakistani War of 1947-48.
Born on January 31, 1923, in Dadh village of Kangra district in Himachal Pradesh, Major Sharma came from a family with strong military traditions. His father was a military doctor, and this background instilled in him the values of service and dedication to the nation from an early age.
The historic act of valor that earned him the Param Vir Chakra took place on November 3, 1947, during the Jammu and Kashmir operations. Major Sharma was commanding a company that was tasked with clearing the Srinagar airport of Pakistani infiltrators and tribal raiders. Despite being heavily outnumbered and facing intense enemy fire, he led his men with remarkable courage and tactical brilliance.
During the fierce battle at Badgam near Srinagar airport, Major Sharma displayed exceptional leadership and bravery. When his company came under heavy attack from enemy forces, he refused to retreat and continued fighting even when ammunition was running low. He made the ultimate sacrifice while defending a strategic position, laying down his life to protect the airport and prevent it from falling into enemy hands.
The Param Vir Chakra was instituted on January 26, 1950, the same day India became a republic. It is equivalent to the Victoria Cross of the United Kingdom and the Medal of Honor of the United States. The award recognizes the most conspicuous bravery and self-sacrifice in the presence of the enemy, making Major Sharma's recognition as the first recipient particularly significant in India's military history.
Major Sharma's sacrifice ensured that the Srinagar airport remained under Indian control, which proved crucial for the subsequent military operations in Kashmir. His heroic actions not only saved countless lives but also demonstrated the highest traditions of the Indian Army. Today, he is remembered as a symbol of courage and patriotism, inspiring generations of soldiers and citizens alike.
