The Param Vir Chakra, the highest wartime gallantry award in India, is a symbol of the unyielding spirit and supreme courage of Indian soldiers. Among its revered recipients stands Subedar Joginder Singh, whose extraordinary leadership and courage during the 1962 Indo-China War set an unparalleled example of heroism. His sacrifice and unwavering commitment to duty earned him this prestigious honor posthumously, ensuring his legacy continues to inspire generations of soldiers and citizens alike.
Early Life and Military Career
Born on 26 September 1921 in Mahla Kalan, Moga district, Punjab, British India, Joginder Singh hailed from a Saini Sikh family. His father, Sher Singh Sahnan, and mother, Bibi Krishan Kaur Bhela, raised him in a traditional agrarian household. He completed his primary education at Nathu Ala village and later attended middle school in Daroli village.
Despite his humble background, young Joginder Singh was determined to carve out a meaningful identity for himself. He saw the Indian Army as a path to purpose and service. On 28 September 1936, he was enlisted into the 1st Battalion of the Sikh Regiment, where he underwent rigorous military training and proved his mettle as a disciplined soldier. His dedication and valor saw him rise through the ranks, eventually becoming a Subedar (equivalent to a senior non-commissioned officer).
The Battle of Tongpeng La: 1962 Indo-China War
During the Indo-China War of 1962, Subedar Joginder Singh was commanding a platoon in the Tawang sector of NEFA (North-East Frontier Agency, now Arunachal Pradesh). His unit was strategically positioned on a ridge in the Tongpeng La area, located on the Bum La axis. The region was a crucial defense point, and on 20 October 1962, they observed heavy enemy movement across the McMahon Line, indicating an imminent attack.
The assault came at 0530 hours on 23 October 1962, when the Chinese forces launched a full-scale attack on the Bum La axis. Their objective was to break through the Indian defences and advance towards Tawang. The attack was well-coordinated, involving three waves, each consisting of approximately 200 soldiers, supported by artillery and mortar fire. The overwhelming firepower and numbers put immense pressure on the defenders, but they stood their ground with resolute determination.
A Fight Against All Odds
Despite being heavily outnumbered, Subedar Joginder Singh and his men held their ground with unwavering determination. Under his leadership, the Sikh platoon repelled the first wave of attack, inflicting heavy casualties on the Chinese forces. The enemy, caught off guard by the intensity of the resistance, was forced to retreat temporarily. However, the respite was short-lived as they quickly regrouped and launched a second, more aggressive assault.
By now, half of Joginder Singh’s platoon had perished, but he remained undeterred. Even after being wounded in the thigh, he refused evacuation, choosing instead to stay and fight alongside his men. His presence inspired those still standing to fight with even greater determination. As the third wave of attack commenced, with enemy forces charging relentlessly, he took up a light machine gun and personally gunned down many adversaries, proving to be a one-man army against the advancing foe.
The Chinese Army, undeterred by losses, continued their advance. The battle grew fiercer, with bullets whizzing past and explosions rocking the terrain. With their ammunition running out, Subedar Joginder Singh and his remaining men made the ultimate sacrifice—they fixed their bayonets and charged at the advancing enemy, shouting the Sikh battle cry, “Waheguru ji ka Khalsa, Waheguru ji ki Fateh.“
In this heroic hand-to-hand combat, many Chinese soldiers were bayoneted to death before the sheer numerical superiority of the enemy overpowered Subedar Joginder Singh and his men. His final stand was a testament to his unyielding spirit, a moment of supreme sacrifice that would forever be etched in the history of Indian military valor. His courage in this desperate battle remains one of the most stirring episodes of military gallantry.
Legacy and Recognition
For his extraordinary valor, indomitable spirit, and supreme sacrifice, Subedar Joginder Singh was posthumously awarded the Param Vir Chakra, India’s highest wartime military honor. His name stands as a beacon of inspiration for countless soldiers and citizens alike. The Sikh Regiment, known for its gallant history, continues to uphold his legacy with pride.
During the 1980s, the Shipping Corporation of India (SCI), a government-owned enterprise under the Ministry of Shipping, named fifteen of its crude oil tankers after Param Vir Chakra awardees. One such vessel, MT Subedar Joginder Singh, PVC, was commissioned in 1984 and remained in service for 25 years before being retired. In his memory, a statue has been erected near the District Collector’s office in Moga, while the Indian Army has built a monument at IB Ridge. Additionally, a stand at Eden Gardens in Kolkata has been named in his honor. There is a 2018 biopic Subedar Joginder Singh based on Singh’s life and his actions during Sino-Indian War. The lead role was played by Punjabi actor and singer Gippy Grewal.
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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