The pages of Punjab’s history are filled with stories of bravery, sacrifice, struggle, and glorious deeds of Sikh warriors. Whether in social life, religious movements, politics, or on the battlefield, Sikhs have played a decisive role in shaping events. Countless brave soldiers have laid down their lives to protect the unity and integrity of the country and have enhanced the nation’s pride through supreme sacrifice. Here, we remember the Sikh recipients of the Param Vir Chakra, whose courage continues to inspire generations.
Param Vir Chakra
The Param Vir Chakra is India’s highest wartime gallantry award. It is awarded to officers and personnel of all ranks in the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force for acts of the highest degree of valour in the presence of the enemy. It is often compared to the Victoria Cross of the United Kingdom and the Medal of Honor of the United States.
Stories of Extraordinary Bravery
There are 21 Param Vir Chakra winners in our country, out of which 5 are Sikhs.They sacrificed everything to keep our country safe. Their supreme and selfless acts of bravery earned them the nation’s highest wartime gallantry award.
Lance Naik Karam Singh – A Name Written in History
During the Jammu and Kashmir operations of 1948, intense fighting took place in the Tithwal sector. Enemy forces made repeated attempts to capture key positions, including areas around Richmar Gali. Lance Naik Karam Singh showed remarkable courage by holding his post under heavy fire and repelling repeated attacks, even after being seriously wounded. For his outstanding bravery and determination at Tithwal, he was awarded the Param Vir Chakra by the Government of India. Lance Naik Karam Singh became the first Sikh soldier to receive this honour.
Subedar Joginder Singh – A Hero of the Sikh Regiment
Subedar Joginder Singh’s story from the Indo-China conflict of 1962 continues to be remembered for its extraordinary courage. While defending a post in the high-altitude region of Ladakh, he led his men against overwhelming enemy forces. Despite being badly wounded, he continued to fight and inspired his comrades to resist the enemy with determination. He fought till his last breath and attained martyrdom. In recognition of his exceptional leadership, courage, and devotion to duty, the Government of India awarded him the Param Vir Chakra posthumously.
Nirmal Jit Singh Sekhon – Defending the Skies Against Heavy Odds
On 14 December 1971, during the Indo-Pak war, Pakistani fighter aircraft attacked the Srinagar airfield. Flying Officer Nirmal Jit Singh Sekhon was stationed at the Srinagar Air Force Base at the time. Displaying exceptional skill and courage, he took off to intercept enemy aircraft despite being heavily outnumbered. In the ensuing aerial combat, his aircraft was hit. He attempted to eject but could not, and he was martyred at the age of 26. For his bravery and devotion to duty, Nirmal Jit Singh Sekhon was awarded the Param Vir Chakra. In his honour, a marine tanker was later named after him.
Naib Subedar Bana Singh – Leader of Operation Rajiv
In 1987, Naib Subedar Bana Singh was serving in the Siachen Glacier region, one of the most inhospitable battlefields in the world. Intelligence reports indicated enemy intrusion at a strategic peak. As part of Operation Rajiv, Bana Singh led a small assault team under extremely harsh weather conditions to clear the position. Despite the difficult terrain and enemy resistance, the mission was successfully accomplished under his leadership. For his gallantry, Naib Subedar Bhana Singh was awarded the Param Vir Chakra, and the captured position was later named Bana Post in his honour.
Gurbachan Singh Salaria – Courage Beyond Borders
On 5 December 1961, Major Gurbachan Singh Salaria displayed exceptional bravery while leading Indian peacekeeping troops deployed under the United Nations mission in the Congo in Africa. When hostile elements attempted to advance towards key positions, he led a charge against them with great determination. During this action, he sustained serious injuries and later succumbed to them. For his inspiring leadership and courage in the face of the enemy, Major Gurbachan Singh Salaria was awarded the Param Vir Chakra posthumously. He holds the distinction of being the first Indian Army officer to receive the Param Vir Chakra for an overseas operation.
Legacy of Inspiration
These brave soldiers represent the highest traditions of courage and sacrifice of the Indian Armed Forces. Their stories of valour stand as enduring symbols of patriotism and duty. The Param Vir Chakra honours not only their individual bravery but also serves as a source of inspiration for the younger generation to serve the nation with dedication and courage.
Leave a Comment