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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
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 fight with the enemy. He killed five 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 finally 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.
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.
Question 37
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.
• 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.
Find out more about gallantry awards.
How to answer:
The textbook gives three examples. You may extend the list through research, but these three are directly supported by the chapter.
View Answer
| Award | What the textbook says |
|---|---|
| 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. |
Note: “Find out more” is a research activity; the chapter itself does not provide a complete list beyond these examples.
Question 38
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.
How to answer:
This is an outside-research activity. Use current official defence sources because roles and policies can change.
View How to Research
Research activity: The chapter does not provide the required list of roles. For a final classroom response, consult current official sources such as the Indian Army or Ministry of Defence and organise the information under headings such as branches, operational roles, leadership opportunities and training.
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.
A commemorative stamp designed by Shri Sankha Samanta captures his powerful presence. It features Birsa Munda addressing his followers, with a determined expression that reflects his unwavering vision of tribal unity, empowerment, and self-governance. This stamp serves as a lasting tribute to his pivotal role in India’s freedom struggle and his relentless commitment to protecting tribal rights.
Source given in NCERT: PIB press release, PRID 2073652.
A commemorative stamp designed by Shri Sankha Samanta captures his powerful presence. It features Birsa Munda addressing his followers, with a determined expression that reflects his unwavering vision of tribal unity, empowerment, and self-governance. This stamp serves as a lasting tribute to his pivotal role in India’s freedom struggle and his relentless commitment to protecting tribal rights.
Source given in NCERT: PIB press release, PRID 2073652.
Question 39
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.
How to answer:
Your list can vary. Include the language or region beside each song.
View Sample Response
Sample list: Vande Mataram · Sare Jahan Se Achha · Ae Mere Watan Ke Logon · Maa Tujhe Salaam. Add songs from your own state or language to complete the activity.
