Class 8 English Chapter 4 – A Tale of Valour: Major Somnath Sharma and the Battle of Badgam | NCERT Notes & Book Solutions

Class 8 English Chapter 4 – A Tale of Valour: Major Somnath Sharma and the Battle of Badgam with easy NCERT Poorvi Notes and complete Book Solutions. Get simple explanations, important events, questions and answers, and revision material for effective learning and exam preparation.

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A Tale of Valour

Major Somnath Sharma and the Battle of Badgam

Chapter Summary

This chapter tells the inspiring story of Major Somnath Sharma, the first recipient of the Param Vir Chakra. It describes the Battle of Badgam in 1947, when Major Somnath Sharma and the soldiers of D Company defended the Srinagar area against a much larger invading force.

Major Somnath Sharma had his left hand in plaster, but he insisted on going with his men because he believed that he should not leave them alone in danger. During the battle, his company of about 90 soldiers faced around 500 invaders. He showed courage, leadership and determination even when he was injured and ammunition was running low.

Major Somnath Sharma refused to withdraw and continued to encourage his soldiers. He was killed by a mortar shell while helping a machine-gun operator. His soldiers continued to hold their position for several more hours, giving time for reinforcements to arrive.

For his exceptional bravery and supreme sacrifice, Major Somnath Sharma was awarded the Param Vir Chakra posthumously. He was the first recipient of this highest military gallantry award of India.

Major Somnath Sharma
Major Somnath Sharma, PVC

Important Points to Remember

  • Major Somnath Sharma was born on 31 January 1923 in Dadh, Kangra, Himachal Pradesh.
  • He came from a family with a military background.
  • He was commissioned into the 19th Hyderabad Regiment in 1942.
  • He served in the Arakan Campaign during World War II.
  • D Company of the 4th Battalion of the Kumaon Regiment was under his command.
  • The Battle of Badgam took place on 03 November 1947.
  • D Company had about 90 soldiers and faced around 500 invaders.
  • Major Somnath Sharma continued to lead his men despite his injured hand.
  • He requested air strikes and helped guide aircraft towards the enemy.
  • He refused to withdraw even when his company was heavily outnumbered.
  • He was killed by a mortar shell while helping a machine-gun operator.
  • His men continued to hold their position for more than six hours after his death.
  • His sacrifice helped provide time for reinforcements to arrive.
  • He was awarded the Param Vir Chakra posthumously.
  • He was the first recipient of the Param Vir Chakra.

Important Words and Meanings

WordEasy Meaning
etcheddeeply fixed in memory
beacona source of inspiration
valourgreat courage
infiltratorspeople who secretly enter a place
annexto take control of a place
combatbattle or fighting
unfoundednot based on facts
eerilyin a strange and frightening way
outnumberedgreater in number than the other side
resolutedetermined and firm
tenacitystrong determination
unparalleledunmatched
magazinescontainers that hold cartridges for a gun
crouchedsat with knees bent
ammunitionbullets, shells and other materials used in weapons
conspicuousclearly noticeable
posthumouslyafter death
despatchesofficial military reports
forgedshaped or strengthened through difficulty
legacyvalues and experiences passed to future generations
testamentstrong proof or evidence
poignantdeeply emotional or sad
Page 49 — Let us do these activities before we read

Let us do these activities before we read

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?
Solution: The Republic Day Parade is a grand national event. It shows India’s culture, achievements and military strength.
2. What are the highlights of this parade?
Solution: The main highlights are the march past by the armed forces, tableaux of different states, cultural performances, military displays and bravery awards.
3. What bravery awards are given on this day, and who receives them?
Solution: Gallantry awards are presented to people who show exceptional courage and bravery while serving the nation. Military personnel and eligible civilians may receive different gallantry awards.

II Work in groups of four and discuss.

1. What qualities do you think a soldier should have?
Solution: A soldier should have courage, discipline, loyalty, determination, teamwork, selflessness and a strong sense of duty.
2. If you had to share a message with a soldier, what would it be?
Solution: Thank you for protecting our country. Your courage and service inspire us to be responsible citizens.
Pages 50–58 — Let us read

About Major Somnath Sharma

Major Somnath Sharma statue
Major Somnath Sharma statue at Param Yodha Sthal, New Delhi
Central Idea: The chapter highlights courage, duty, leadership, patriotism, sacrifice and determination through the life of Major Somnath Sharma and the Battle of Badgam.

Important Values in the Chapter

Courage: Facing danger without giving up.
Duty: Doing one’s responsibility sincerely.
Leadership: Guiding and encouraging others.
Self-sacrifice: Putting the safety of others and duty before oneself.
Patriotism: Love and devotion towards one’s country.
Determination: Continuing to work despite difficulties.
Page 59 — Let us discuss

Let us discuss

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)

Solution: The correct chronological order is: 1 → 4 → 6 → 3 → 5 → 7 → 2 → 8.
Pages 59–61 — Let us think and reflect

Let us think and reflect

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.

Let us salute this braveheart.

Vande Mataram, vande mataraṁ
Sujalam suphalam malayaja shitalam,
Shasya shyamalam ṃataram!
Vande Mataram, vande mataram
vande mataram…

Jai Hind

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…’

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 he was determined to protect his position and encourage his soldiers.

(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.

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.

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?

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?

Answer: 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

II Answer the following questions.

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?
Solution: The repetition emphasises that his courage, sacrifice and devotion will always be remembered.
2. Why do you think Major Somnath’s leadership was critical during the Battle of Badgam?
Solution: He guided his soldiers, encouraged them and organised the defence even when they were greatly outnumbered.
3. What were Major Somnath’s last words? What do they reflect about his sense of duty?
Solution: His last reported words were, “I shall not withdraw an inch but will fight to the last man and the last round.” They show his determination, courage and deep sense of duty.
4. What might have been the outcome of the Battle of Badgam if Major Somnath and his company had not held their ground?
Solution: The enemy might have advanced more quickly towards Srinagar and the airfield. Their resistance gave time for reinforcements to arrive.
5. Why do you think Major Somnath’s story continues to inspire soldiers and civilians today?
Solution: His story shows courage, leadership, duty and sacrifice. These values can inspire people to face difficulties responsibly.
6. How can the values demonstrated by Major Somnath Sharma—courage, duty, and self-sacrifice—be applied in our daily lives?
Solution: We can be brave when facing difficulties, complete our responsibilities honestly and help others even when it requires effort or sacrifice.
Pages 62–64 — Let us learn

Let us learn

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

Column 1
Column 1Column 2
1. Fight to the last man(i) A sports team scores a last-minute goal, giving them the lead and shaking the opponent’s confidence.
2. Foil the plan(ii) The soldiers fought valiantly until each one laid down his life for the nation.
3. Deliver a blow(iii) Soldiers stay in their position and fight back, even though the enemy is stronger.
4. Hold their ground(iv) A spy disrupts the enemy’s efforts to invade a country by intercepting their communications.
Solution:
1. Fight to the last man — (ii)
2. Foil the plan — (iv)
3. Deliver a blow — (i)
4. Hold their ground — (iii)
Now, complete the following sentences using the expressions from Column 1.

A. The detective managed to ______________ by finding 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.

Solution:

A. The detective managed to foil the plan by finding the hidden evidence before the culprit could get rid of it.

B. The company’s new advertising campaign was meant to deliver a blow to their competitors’ sales.

C. The hikers chose to hold their ground despite the heavy rain, refusing to turn back on their journey.

D. Despite being heavily outnumbered, the soldiers vowed to defend their homeland and fight to the last man, refusing to surrender to the enemy forces.

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.

Column 1Column 2
1. regiment(i) a large body of troops ready for battle, especially an infantry unit
2. squadron(ii) a permanent unit of an army typically commanded by a lieutenant colonel/colonel and divided into several companies
3. fleet(iii) a small unit, typically comprising 12–24 aircrafts and their crews used in air force, naval, or army aviation services.
4. battalion(iv) a group of ships sailing together, engaged in the same activity, or under the same ownership
Solution:
1. regiment — (ii)
2. squadron — (iii)
3. fleet — (iv)
4. battalion — (i)
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.

Solution:

A. battalion

B. fleet

C. regiment

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: ____________

Solution:

1. To take and seize control: overthrow

2. To invade or occupy an area in large numbers: overrun

3. To flood or overpower someone or something emotionally: overwhelm

Now, create a list of at least five other verbs that begin with ‘over’ and frame sentences of your own.
Solution:
VerbSentence
overcomeWe can overcome difficulties with patience.
overlookDo not overlook small mistakes.
overcomeShe worked hard to overcome her fear.
overheatThe machine may overheat if it runs for too long.
overloadDo not overload the school bag.
overuseWe should not overuse mobile phones.

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)

Solution:

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.

Solution:

Defence is the British English spelling, while defense is the American English spelling. Both have the same meaning: protection 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.

Solution:

1. is

2. were

3. has

4. shows

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 soldiers 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.

Solution:

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.

Page 66 — Let us listen

Let us listen

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. (Transcript for teacher on page 98)

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 ____________.

Solution:

1. Brave

2. enemy

3. Dr. Rajendra Prasad, the then President of India

4. a Vedic rishi

5. lotus flowers

Param Vir Chakra medal
Param Vir Chakra
Pages 66–67 — Let us speak

Let us speak

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.
Sample Solution:

I believe one of the best ways to serve the nation is by keeping our surroundings clean and protecting the environment. A small change we can make is to reduce plastic use and plant more trees. If everyone contributes by saving water and electricity, it can lead to a healthier country. We can make a difference by working together as a team. Serving the nation is not just about big actions; even small efforts like helping others and following rules matter.

Pages 67–68 — Let us write

Let us write

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.

(Sender’s address)

(Date)

(Receiver’s address)

Subject: Enquiry about a School Visit to a Memorial

Dear Sir,

(Body of the letter)

Yours sincerely,

(Name)

Body of the Letter Prompts for Enquiry

Paragraph 1: State the purpose of writing

This is to enquire about…

Could you please provide details about… ?

Paragraph 2: Ask for more details

Firstly, I request you to share…

Secondly, I would appreciate it if you could explain…

I would also be grateful to get further details on…

Lastly, could you clarify if… ?

Paragraph 3: Request an early response

An early reply will be greatly appreciated, as it will help…

I look forward to your guidance and support for making this trip meaningful.

Sample Solution:

Green Valley School
Dehradun, Uttarakhand

20 September 2026

The Incharge
National War Memorial
New Delhi

Subject: Enquiry about a School Visit to a Memorial

Dear Sir,

This is to enquire about organising an educational visit to the National War Memorial for our students. We wish to help them learn about the courage and sacrifices of Indian soldiers.

Firstly, I request you to share the available dates for school visits and the duration of the tour. Secondly, I would appreciate it if you could explain the entry fee and booking procedure. I would also be grateful to get details about the guidelines and facilities available for student groups.

An early reply will be greatly appreciated, as it will help us plan the visit properly. I look forward to your guidance and support for making this trip meaningful.

Yours sincerely,
English Teacher
Green Valley School

Pages 68–69 — Let us explore

Let us explore

I Out of twenty-one PVC awardees, Major Somnath Sharma was the first recipient of the PVC, and Captain Vikram Batra was the last recipient of the PVC, the highest gallantry award.

Captain Vikram Batra bust
Captain Vikram Batra, PVC
Solution:

Major Somnath Sharma was the first recipient of the Param Vir Chakra. Captain Vikram Batra was one of the later recipients of the award and received it posthumously for his courage during the Kargil War.

Both stories highlight courage, leadership, dedication to duty and sacrifice.

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.

Solution:

Some important Indian gallantry awards include the Param Vir Chakra, Maha Vir Chakra and Vir Chakra for wartime bravery. Other recognised gallantry decorations include the Ashoka Chakra, Kirti Chakra and Shaurya Chakra for acts of bravery in different circumstances.

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.

Find out the key roles of women in the Indian Army. Share the information with your classmates and teacher.
Solution:

Women serve in many areas of the Indian Army. Their roles include medical services, engineering, signals, communications, education, logistics, legal services, aviation and leadership positions. Women officers also serve in operational and command-related responsibilities according to the rules and roles applicable to their service.

IV Birsa Munda: A Saga of Courage and Sacrifice

Birsa Munda, a revered tribal freedom fighter, spiritual leader, and folk hero, belonged to the Munda tribe. Celebrated as a valiant warrior and a charismatic figure, he emerged as a powerful symbol of tribal resistance against British colonial rule. Among the people of Jharkhand, he is affectionately known as Dharti Aaba—Father of the Land—and is honoured as a divine figure for his selfless dedication to his people.
Solution:

Birsa Munda was a tribal freedom fighter and leader from the Munda community. He became an important symbol of resistance against British colonial rule and worked for the rights and welfare of his people. He is popularly remembered as Dharti Aaba, meaning Father of the Land.

V Make a list of the patriotic songs in any language, including songs from your region. Share the songs with your classmates and teacher.

Make a list of the patriotic songs in any language, including songs from your region. Share the songs with your classmates and teacher.
Sample Solution:
Patriotic SongLanguage
Vande MataramSanskrit/Bengali
Saare Jahan Se AchhaUrdu
Jana Gana ManaBengali/Sanskritised Bengali
Ae Mere Watan Ke LogonHindi
Kar Chale Hum FidaHindi
Mere Desh Ki DhartiHindi
Desh RangilaHindi

Quick Revision Questions

Who was Major Somnath Sharma?
Answer: Major Somnath Sharma was an Indian Army officer and the first recipient of the Param Vir Chakra.
When was the Battle of Badgam fought?
Answer: The Battle of Badgam was fought on 03 November 1947.
How many soldiers were in Major Somnath Sharma’s D Company?
Answer: D Company had about 90 soldiers.
How many invaders did D Company face?
Answer: They faced about 500 invaders.
What was Major Somnath Sharma’s famous message when asked to withdraw?
Answer: “I shall not withdraw an inch but will fight to the last man and the last round.”
Which award did Major Somnath Sharma receive?
Answer: He received the Param Vir Chakra posthumously.
What is the main message of the chapter?
Answer: The chapter teaches us the importance of courage, duty, leadership, patriotism, determination and selfless service.

Chapter in One Minute

Major Somnath Sharma → Battle of Badgam → 90 soldiers vs about 500 invaders → courageous leadership → refused to withdraw → sacrificed his life → soldiers held the position → reinforcements arrived → Srinagar was defended → first Param Vir Chakra recipient.

Important Quotes

“I shall not withdraw an inch but will fight to the last man and the last round.”

This line shows Major Somnath Sharma’s determination and commitment to his duty.

Param Vir Chakra ribbon
Param Vir Chakra ribbon

Prepare this worksheet to practise important questions and revision exercises from Chapter 4. It will help you understand the chapter, revise key concepts, and prepare effectively for tests and exams.

CLASS 8 • ENGLISH

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