The 1971 Indo-Pak War was a pivotal conflict between India and Pakistan, leading to the creation of Bangladesh. As part of India’s military operations, our brave and valiant jawans played a crucial role individually on the battlefield, giving India the mandatory edge to attain victory. These extraordinary soldiers were awarded India’s highest wartime gallantry award, showcasing their valour and indomitable spirit in the face of relentless enemy onslaught and insurmountable odds. Among these brave heroes stands the name of Major Hoshiar Singh, who was tasked with capturing a strategically important enemy post in the Shakargarh sector during the Battle of Basantar. He led his troops under intense enemy fire, displaying extraordinary bravery and tactical brilliance.
Major Hoshiar Singh was a symbol of unparalleled courage, unwavering determination, and extraordinary leadership. Born on May 5, 1936, in the village of Sisana, Haryana, he grew up with a deep-rooted sense of patriotism and duty towards his country. From a young age, he exhibited qualities of resilience, discipline, and fearlessness—traits that would later define his illustrious military career.
The 1971 Indo-Pak War
During the Indo-Pakistani War of 1971, the 3rd Battalion of the Grenadiers Regiment spearheaded the advance of the 54 Infantry Division in the Shakargarh sector on the western front. On the night of December 5, the battalion made rapid advances, securing crucial objectives in the first ten days of the war.
On December 15, the battalion was tasked with establishing a bridgehead across the Basantar River, which was heavily mined on both sides and guarded by fortified enemy positions. Major Hoshiar Singh, commanding ‘C’ Company, launched a daring attack on the enemy-held position of Jarpal from the left flank. The assault met fierce resistance, with intense shelling and crossfire from enemy medium machine guns, leading to heavy casualties.
Undeterred, Major Singh and his men pressed on with grim determination, engaging in brutal hand-to-hand combat to clear enemy bunkers and secure the objective. However, the battle was far from over. Realizing the strategic importance of Jarpal, the enemy launched several violent counterattacks, including two armoured assaults on December 16. Amidst the relentless enemy fire, Major Singh moved fearlessly from trench to trench, inspiring his men to hold their ground.
The following day, December 17, the enemy launched yet another battalion-strength attack, supported by heavy artillery. Despite being seriously wounded, Major Hoshiar Singh refused evacuation. Displaying unyielding resolve, he continued moving across the battlefield, rallying his troops and personally manning a medium machine gun after its crew was incapacitated. His accurate and relentless fire inflicted severe losses on the enemy.
The counteroffensive was successfully repelled, forcing the enemy into retreat and leaving behind 85 dead, including their Commanding Officer, Lieutenant Colonel Mohammed Akram Raja, and three other officers. Major Singh’s leadership and extraordinary valour not only secured the objective but also prevented the enemy from reclaiming lost ground.
For his unwavering bravery, indomitable spirit, and selfless leadership, Major Hoshiar Singh was awarded the Param Vir Chakra, India’s highest military honour. He was also Mentioned-in-Despatches for his outstanding service.
Post-War Service and Legacy
After the war, Major Singh continued to serve with distinction. He was promoted to substantive major on June 30, 1976, and later served as an instructor at the Officers Training School, Madras (now Chennai), for two years. In 1981, he was posted as an instructor at the Indian Military Academy, Dehradun, and was promoted to lieutenant colonel on April 8, 1983. Eventually, he rose to command his battalion.
Having reached the retirement age for his rank, Major Singh retired on May 31, 1988, with the honorary rank of colonel. Settling in Jaipur, he remained closely connected to his roots, frequently visiting his village and inspiring young men to join the armed forces.
Final Salute
On December 6, 1998, at the age of 61, Major Hoshiar Singh succumbed to a cardiac arrest. He was cremated with full military honours in Jaipur. His legacy lives on, not only in the stories of his bravery but also through his family. Two of his three sons followed in his footsteps, becoming commissioned officers in the Grenadiers Regiment, with one joining the 3rd Grenadiers.
Manbilas Singh is a talented writer and journalist who focuses on the finer details in every story and values integrity above everything. A self-proclaimed sleuth, he strives to expose the fine print behind seemingly mundane activities and aims to uncover the truth that is hidden from the general public. In his time away from work, he is a music aficionado and a nerd who revels in video & board games, books and Formula 1.
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