Quick Summary

The Story in One Problem

About 90 soldiers are left at Badgam. A force of about 500 invaders attacks—and the road towards Srinagar lies behind them.

Major Somnath Sharma's company has to hold the position long enough for more Indian troops to reach Srinagar.

Think before you read: What can one small company achieve if defeating a much larger force immediately is impossible?

Meet the people and groups who matter

Major Somnath Sharma

Commander of D Company, 4 Kumaon. His left hand is in plaster, but he refuses to stay behind.

D Company

About 90 soldiers whose resistance at Badgam buys crucial time.

The attacking force

About 500 invaders at the main stage of the battle, according to the chapter.

Indian reinforcements

Additional troops whose arrival becomes possible because D Company delays the enemy.

Where are we?

Kashmir Valley, 1947 — soon after Indian independence.
Badgam — less than five kilometres from Srinagar airport and important for access to the airfield.
3 November 1947 — the day of the Battle of Badgam described in the chapter.

The Real Challenge D Company cannot match the enemy in numbers. Its job becomes to hold the position, slow the attack and protect the route towards Srinagar until reinforcements arrive .

Major Somnath Sharma is introduced as India's first Param Vir Chakra recipient. The chapter begins with remembrance before moving back to the battle.
Operation Gulmarg creates a threat to Kashmir and important locations including Srinagar airport.
Indian troops are flown into Srinagar. Major Sharma insists on joining D Company despite his plastered hand.
On 3 November, D Company patrols Badgam. Enemy forces have been entering secretly.
The first attack turns out to be a distraction. A much larger attack follows.
About 90 soldiers face about 500 invaders. Major Sharma requests air strikes and guides aircraft with ground panels.
He keeps moving under fire, directs firing, helps with ammunition and encourages his men.
When ammunition runs low, he refuses to withdraw.
A mortar shell kills him while he is helping beside a machine gun.
D Company still holds on for over six more hours, giving reinforcements time to reach Srinagar.
Major Sharma becomes the first recipient of the Param Vir Chakra, awarded posthumously.
The chapter ends by showing how his courage and sacrifice continue to be remembered.