Click here to access the best NCERT Solutions for Class 8 English Poorvi Unit 2 Values and Dispositions Chapter 4 A Tale of Valour: Major Somnath Sharma and the Battle of Badgam Questions and Answers.
A Tale of Valour: Major Somnath Sharma and the Battle of Badgam Class 8 Questions and Answers
A Tale of Valour: Major Somnath Sharma and the Battle of Badgam Class 8 Question Answer
NCERT Class 8 English Poorvi Chapter 4 A Tale of Valour: Major Somnath Sharma and the Battle of Badgam Question Answer
A Tale of Valour: Major Somnath Sharma and the Battle of Badgam Question Answer – Let us do these activities before we read. (Page 49)
I. Work in pairs. Share your answers with your classmates and teacher.
Question 1.
What do you think about the Republic Day Parade on 26 January?
Answer:
India became Republic on 26 January 1950. To commemorate this day, the Republic Day is celebrated every year, on 26 January. A parade is held at Rajpath, New Delhi, to celebrate this event. The President of India hoists the National Flag.
Question 2.
What are the highlights of this parade?
Answer:
A foreign dignitary is invited to be a guest during the Republic Day parade. A march past is done by the armed forces. Many states display their floats during the parade.
Question 3.
What bravery awards are given on this day, and who receives them?
Answer:
The awards given on Republic Day are: Param Vir Chakra, Mahavir Chakra, Vir Chakra, Ashoka Chakra, Kirti Chakra and Shaurya Chakra. The personnel of armed forces receive them.
II. Work in groups of four and discuss.
Question 1.
What qualities do you think a soldier should have?
Answer:
A good soldier needs a combination of courage, discipline, and adaptability to succeed in the military.
Question 2.
If you had to share a message with’ a soldier, what would it be?
Answer:
I would like to tell a soldier that all people of our country love and respect him/her for his/her willingness to sacrifice his/her life for the sake of the country. They are backed by the prayers of the whole country.
A Tale of Valour: Major Somnath Sharma and the Battle of Badgam Class 8 Question Answer – Let us discuss (Page 59)
I. Arrange the following events in chronological order. The first and the last events have been marked for you. Share your answers with your classmates and teacher.
1. Major Somnath Sharma was born in 1923 in Kangra, Himachal Pradesh. (1)
2. Even after losing Major Somnath Sharma, the soldiers fought bravely to save Srinagar for India.
3. The D Company, under the command of Major Somnath Sharma, was flown into Srinagar.
4. Major Somnath Sharma underwent training at the Royal Military College, Sandhurst.
5. Major Somnath Sharma requested air strikes to combat the enemy at Badgam.
6. Major Somnath Sharma was commissioned into the 19th Hyderabad Regiment in 1942.
7. Major Somnath Sharma was killed immediately after a mortar shell hit him.
8. Major Somnath Sharma was the first recipient of the Param Vir Chakra. (8)
Answer:
1. → 4. → 6. → 3. → 5. → 7. → 2. → 8.
Class 8 English A Tale of Valour: Major Somnath Sharma and the Battle of Badgam Question Answer – Let us think and reflect (Pages 59-61)
I. Read the given extracts and answer the questions that follow.
1. Vastly outnumbered and facing devastating fire, Major Somnath Sharma and his men stood resolute. The air was thick with the sound of gunfire and the cries of battle, but Major Somnath Sharma’s voice cut through the chaos, urging his men to fight with tenacity and valour. Despite heavy casualties and his own injuries, Major Somnath Sharma displayed unparalleled bravery. He moved fearlessly through the battlefield, directing fire, filling magazines for his gunners, and encouraging his men to hold their ground.
(i) What can be inferred about the conditions from the line: The air was thick with gunfire…’
A. The gunshots had stopped for a while.
B. There was intense fighting on the battlefield.
C. The invaders were retreating from the fight.
D. The Indian soldiers had achieved victory.
Answer:
B. There was intense fighting on the battlefield.
(ii) Complete the sentence with a suitable reason.
Despite heavy casualties, Major Somnath Sharma continued to lead his men because __________.
Answer:
he was deeply committed to his duty and wanted to inspire his soldiers to fight with courage and determination.
(iii) Select the correct option for both Assertion (A) and Reason (R) given below:
(A): Major Somnath Sharma moved fearlessly through the battlefield, even though he was injured.
(R): He believed his courage was important to motivate the soldiers.
A. Both (A) and (R) are true, and (R) is the correct explanation of (A).
B. Both (A) and (R) are true, but (R) is . not the correct explanation of (A).
C. (A) is true, but (R) is false.
D. (A) is false, but (R) is true.
Answer:
A. Both (A) and (R) are true, and (R) is the correct explanation of (A).
(iv) Fill in the blank with the correct word from those given in the brackets: Major Somnath Sharma was filling magazines, and encouraging his men to hold their ground despite __________ (injuries/worry)
Answer:
injuries
2. Bom on 31 January 1923, in the picturesque town of Dadh in Kangra, Himachal Pradesh, Somnath Sharma belonged to a family with a rich military legacy. His father, Major General Amar Nath Sharma, had served the nation with distinction, and young Somnath was deeply inspired by the valorous tales of the Mahabharata, imparted to him by his grandfather.
(i) What can be inferred about Somnath Sharma’s early influences on his career?
A. He was primarily influenced by his father’s achievements in the military.
B. His inspiration came solely from the tales of the Mahabharata.
C. His family and heritage inspired his bravery and sense of duty.
D. He decided to join the military out of necessity rather than passion.
Answer:
C. His family and heritage inspired his bravery and sense of duty.
(ii) Identify whether the following statement is true or false:
Somnath Sharma belonged to a wealthy family.
Answer:
False.
(iii) What does the phrase ‘served the nation with distinction’ tell us about Major General Amar Nath Sharma? (He performed his duties with exceptional dedication, honour, and excellence./He was highly respected for his contributions to the country.)
Answer:
Major General Amar Nath Sharma performed his duties with exceptional dedication, honour, and excellence.
(iv) Replace the underlined phrase with a word from the extract that has a similar meaning.
My family and I visited a popular hill station and stayed in an old but visually charming house surrounded by trees.
Answer:
picturesque
II. Answer the following questions.
Question 1.
‘Major Somnath’s legacy of courage and devotion to the nation remains forever alive, forever qlive…’What is the significance of the repetition in this line?
Answer:
The repetition of the phrase ‘forever alive’ emphasizes the lasting impact of Major Somnath’s bravery and devotion. It conveys that his sacrifice is remembered not just as a moment in history, but as an eternal source of inspiration for future generations.
Question 2.
Why do you think Major Somnath’s leadership was critical during the Battle of Badgam?
Answer:
Major Somnath’s leadership was critical during the Battle or Badgam because he remained calm under pressure, inspired his men to fight bravely despite overwhelming odds, and made strategic decisions such as requesting air strikes. His presence and courage motivated his troops to hold their ground, buying valuable time for reinforcements to arrive and save Srinagar.
Question 3.
What were Major Somnath’s last words? What do they reflect about his sense of duty?
Answer:
Major Somnath’s last words were: “The enemy is only 50 yards from us. We are heavily outnumbered. We are under devastating fire. I shall not withdraw an inch but will fight to the last man and the last round.”
These words reflect his unshakeable commitment to his mission and his willingness to sacrifice everything for the defence of his country. They show his deep sense of duty, bravery, and leadership.
Question 4.
What might have been the outcome of the Battle of Badgam if Major Somnath and his company had not held their ground?
Answer:
If Major Somnath and his company had not held their ground, the infiltrators might have captured the Srinagar airport and the surrounding areas. This could have led to the loss of Kashmir to Pakistan in 1947, changing the course of Indian history significantly.
Question 5.
Why do you think Major Somnath’s story continues to inspire soldiers and civilians today?
Answer:
Major Somnath’s story inspires people because it embodies courage, patriotism, and selfless sacrifice. He led from the front despite personal injury and chose to fight against overwhelming odds rather than retreat. Such dedication to the nation sets a powerful example for both soldiers defending the country and civilians striving to uphold values in their daily lives.
Question 6.
How can the values demonstrated by Major Somnath Sharma—courage, duty, and self-sacrifice—be applied in our daily lives?
Answer:
These values can guide us to face challenges bravely, take responsibility for our actions, and put the well-being of others above our own interests. Whether it’s helping someone in need, standing up for what’s right, or staying committed to our goals, we can honour his legacy by living with integrity, responsibility, and compassion.
A Tale of Valour: Major Somnath Sharma and the Battle of Badgam Class 8 Questions and Answers – Let us learn (Pages 62-66)
I. Match the expressions from the text in Column 1 with the most suitable situations given in Column 2.
| Column 1 | Column 2 |
| 1. Fight to the last man | (i) A sports team scores a last minute goal, giving them the lead and shaking the opponent’s confidence. |
| 2. Foil the plan | (ii) The soldiers fought valiantly until each one laid down his life for the nation. |
| 3. Deliver a blow | (iii) Soldiers stay in their position and fight back, even though the enemy is stronger. |
| 4. Hold their ground | (iv) A spy disrupts the enemy’s efforts to invade a country by intercepting their communications. |
Answer:
| Column 1 | Column 2 |
| 1. Fight to the last man | (ii) The soldiers fought valiantly until each one laid down his life for the nation. |
| 2. Foil the plan | (iv) A spy disrupts the enemy’s efforts to invade a country by intercepting their communications. |
| 3. Deliver a blow | (i) A sports team scores a last minute goal, giving them the lead and shaking the opponent’s confidence. |
| 4. Hold their ground | (iii) Soldiers stay in their position and fight back, even though the enemy is stronger. |
Now, complete the following sentences using the expressions from Column 1.
A. The detective managed to ______________ by fiding the hidden evidence before the culprit could get rid of it.
B. The company’s new advertising campaign was meant to ______________ to their competitors’ sales.
C. The hikers chose to ______________ despite the heavy rain, refusing to turn back on their journey.
D. Despite being heavily outnumbered, the soldiers vowed to defend their homeland and ______________, refusing to surrender to the enemy forces.
Answer:
A. foil the plan
B. deliver a blow
C. hold their ground
D. fight to the last man
II. Read the highlighted words in the following sentence from the text. A contingent of troops posted to Jammu and Kashmir was air-lifted into Srinagar…
There are many such collective nouns used in the context of armed forces.
Match the collective nouns in Column 1 to their meanings in Column 2. You may refer to a dictionary.
| Column 1 | Column 2 |
| 1. regiment | (i) a large body of troops ready for battle, especially an infantry unit |
| 2. squadron | (ii) a permanent unit of an army typically commanded by a lieutenant colonel/colonel and divided into several companies |
| 3. fleet | (iii) a small unit, typically comprising 12-24 aircrafts and their crews used in air force, naval, or army aviation services. |
| 4. battalion | (iv) a group of ships sailing together, engaged in the same activity, or under the same ownership |
Answer:
| Column 1 | Column 2 |
| 1. regiment | (ii) a permanent unit of an army typically commanded by a lieutenant colonel/colonel and divided into several companies |
| 2. squadron | (iii) a small unit, typically comprising 12-24 aircrafts and their crews used in air force, naval, or army aviation services. |
| 3. fleet | (iv) a group of ships sailing together, engaged in the same activity, or under the same ownership |
| 4. battalion | (i) a large body of troops ready for battle, especially an infantry unit |
Now, fill in the blanks suitably with words from Column 1 in the table.
A. The commanding officer addressed the entire __________ of soldiers during the morning assembly.
B. The admiral ordered the entire __________ to set sail for battle.
C. The __________ of infantry advanced slowly through the dense forest.
D. A __________ of fighter jets was sent to intercept the enemy planes.
Answer:
A. regiment
B. fleet
C. battalion
D. squadron
III. Read the following words from the text and fill in the blanks with the correct words by taking clues from the meanings given below in the box.
Meanings
1. To take and seize control: __________
2. To invade or occupy an area in large numbers: __________
3. To flood or overpower someone or something emotionally: __________
Answer:
1. overthrow
2. overrun
3. overwhelm
Now, create a list of at least five other verbs that begin with ‘over’ and frame sentences of your own.
Answer:
1. Overestimate-Don’t overestimate your ability to finish the project in just one day.
2. Overlook – She overlooked a small detail that caused the entire plan to fail.
3. Overreact-//e tends to overreact to even minor criticism.
4. Overwork-//- you overwork yourself, you’ll end up feeling exhausted and burned out.
5. Overslept-/ missed the bus because I overslept this morning.
IV. In the following pairs of words, ‘c’ is used for nouns, while ‘s’ is used for verbs.
- advice (noun) and advise (verb)
- practice (noun) and practise (verb)
- device (noun) and devise (verb)
- council (noun) and counsel (verb)
Now, fill in the blanks correctly with the words given in the brackets.
1. The teacher’s (i) ____________ is always helpful, and she continues to (ii) ____________ students on their career choices. (advice/advise)
2. The musician believes that daily (i) ____________ helps a lot, so she is always ready to (ii) ____________ her harmonium lessons. (practice/practise)
3. The scientist uses a strange (i) ____________ for experiments and plans to (ii) ____________ new methods for his analysis. (device/devise)
4. The village (i) ____________ met to discuss issues and decided to (ii) ____________ the villagers on important matters. (council/counsel)
Answer:
1. (i) advice (ii) advise
2. (i) practice (ii) practise
3. (i) device (ii) devise
4. (i) council (ii) counsel
Read the highlighted word in the following sentence from the text.
Most importantly, his story is a reminder of the sacrifices made by countless men and women in defence of the motherland. In terms of meaning, there is no difference between the two words (defence, defense). In American English the word is spelt with an ‘s’, whereas in British English it is spelt with a ‘c’, which is the preferred spelling. The word has several different meanings, but it is mostly used to mean ‘the act of protecting someone or something against attack or criticism’.
V. Read the highlighted words in the following sentences from the text.
- …ended with echoes of courage that serve as an inspiration…
- A contingent of troops posted to Jammu and Kashmir was airlifted into Srinagar…
- D Company with 90 soldiers was the last and they were expected to return by 2:00 p.m.
- The life and sacrifice of Major Somnath Sharma embody the highest ideals of duty, honour, and patriotism.
The highlighted words are either singular verbs or plural verbs.
They are in agreement with the subject of the sentence. This is called Subject-Verb Agreement.
Now, fill in the blanks for the following sentences by choosing the correct verb given within brackets.
1. The bouquet of flowers __________ (is/are) beautiful.
2. Neither the teacher nor the students __________ (was/were) aware of the change in the schedule.
3. Each of the participants __________ (has/have) submitted their projects on time.
4. The data collected by the researchers __________ (shows/show) significant trends.
5. One of the players __________ (was/were) injured during the match.
6. Either the children or their guardian __________ (has/have) to attend the meeting.
7. A pair of shoes __________ (is/are) missing from the rack.
8. Neither of the statements __________ (is/are) true.
9. The members of the jury __________ (has deliver/have delivered) their verdict to the court.
10. Mathematics __________ (is/are) an interesting subject for many students.
Answer:
1. is
2. were
3. has
4. show
5. was
6. has
7. is
8. is
9. have delivered
10. is
VI. Read the following passage and correct the incorrect usage of verbs. One example has been done for you.
A battalion of soldiejs stand at attention as the National flag are raised.
A battalion of soldiers stands at attention as the National flag is raised.
Each soldier salute with pride while the commander and his assistants inspects the parade. The sound of marching feet echo through the air as a group of cadets prepare for their drill. Meanwhile, a convoy of military vehicles pass by, drawing cheers from the gathered crowd.
Answer:
Each soldier salutes with pride while the commander and his assistants inspect the parade. The sound of marching feet echoes through the air as a group of cadets prepares for their drill. Meanwhile, a convoy of military vehicles passes by, drawing cheers from the gathered crowd.
A Tale of Valour: Major Somnath Sharma and the Battle of Badgam Question Answer Class 8 – Let us listen (Page 66)
I. You will listen to a talk about the Param Vir Chakra. As you listen, complete the sentences by filling in the blanks with one or two exact words or phrases you hear. (Refer to the NCERT Textbook Page 98 for Transcript)
1. The Param Vir Chakra signifies the Wheel of the Ultimate __________.
2. The Param Vir Chakra is awarded to someone who shows exemplary bravery while fighting with the __________
3. The Param Vir Chakra was introduced as a Gallantry Medal in 1947 by the __________
4. The design of the Param Vir Chakra is inspired by Sage Dadhichi, who was a __________
5. The state emblem in the centre of the Param Vir Chakra is surrounded by the Vajra and __________
Answer:
1. Brave
2. Enemy
3. Dr. Rajendra Prasad, the then President of India.
4. a Vedic rishi
5. lotus flowers
Class 8 English Chapter 4 Question Answer – Let us speak (Pages 66-67)
I. As the citizens of a nation, we all must fulfil our duty. In groups of 4-5, speak about how you propose to serve your nation.
You can choose from the themes given below:
- Saving the environment
- Health and well-being
- Helping others
- Righteous conduct
You may use the sentence prompts given below to organise what you speak about.
- I believe one of the best ways to serve the nation is by…
- A small change we can make is… and it will have a big impact because…
- If everyone contributes by… it can lead to…
- One of the biggest challenges we face is… and I propose we address it by…
- We can make a difference by working together as a team, if we…
- Serving the nation is not just about big actions; even small efforts like… matter.
Answer:
Student 1: I believe one of the best ways to serve the nation is by saving the environment. Our natural resources are limited, and we need to act now to protect them for future generations.
Student 2: A small change we can make is carrying our own cloth bags instead of using plastic bags, and it will have a big impact because plastic takes hundreds of years to decompose and harms animals and water bodies.
Student 3: If everyone contributes by reducing waste, planting trees, and conserving water, it can lead to cleaner air, better health, and a more sustainable future for all citizens.
Student 4: One of the biggest challenges we face is the lack of awareness and careless habits, and I propose we address it by organizing awareness drives in schools and neighbourhoods to educate people about eco-friendly practices.
Student 5: We can make a difference by working together as a team, if we start local projects like cleanliness drives, food banks, or tutoring programs for underprivileged children.
Student 1:
Serving the nation is not just about big actions; even small efforts like being kind, listening to someone’s problems, or helping a neighbour matter.
NCERT Class 8 English Poorvi Chapter 4 Question Answer – Let us write (Pages 67-68)
I. Read about ;
A letter of enquiry is a formal letter written to seek detailed information about something the writer wants to know. For example, it can be used for joining a course, organising an event, knowing details about a trip, etc. The language used is formal and specific, with relevant queries.
Now, write a letter of enquiry. Your school wishes to organise a visit to a Memorial in your state/region. Write the letter to the incharge of that memorial requesting for information regarding available dates for visits, the duration of the tour, any entry fees, and guidelines for student groups.
- Follow the given layout.
- Use the cues given below to draft the letter.
Now, write a letter of enquiry. Your school wishes to organise a visit to a Memorial in your state/region. Write the letter to the incharge of that memorial requesting for information regarding available dates for visits, the duration of the tour, any entry fees, and guidelines for student groups.
Answer:
Green Valley Public School
Sector 10, Lakeview Road
Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh – 462003
17 May 2025
The Incharge
Shaheed Smarak Memorial
Central Square, Bhopal – 462001
Subject: Enquiry about a School Visit to a Memorial
Dear Sir
This is to enquire about the possibility of organising a visit to the Shaheed Smarak Memorial for students of classes IX and X of our school. The visit is intended to help students learn about the nation’s history and honour the sacrifices of our martyrs. Could you please provide details about the procedures and formalities involved in arranging such a visit?
Firstly, I request you to share the available dates for group visits in the coming month. Secondly, I would appreciate it if you could explain the duration of the tour and whether guided tours are provided.
I would also be grateful to get further details on any entry fees or group discounts applicable for school students. Lastly, could you clarify if there are any specific guidelines or safety protocols we need to follow while bringing a student group?
An early reply will be greatly appreciated, as it will help us in planning the schedule and seeking necessary approvals. I look forward to your guidance and support for making this trip meaningful and educational for our students.
Yours sincerely
Ananya Sharma
Cultural Activities Coordinator
Green Valley Public School
Class 8th English Chapter 4 A Tale of Valour: Major Somnath Sharma and the Battle of Badgam Question Answer – Let us explore (Pages 68-69)
Out of twenty-one PVC awardees, Major Somnath Sharma was the fist recipient of the PVC, and Captain Vikram Batra was the last recipient of the PVC, the highest gallantry award. 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 fially captured Point 4875. 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 fiht with the enemy. He killed fie 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 fially 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).
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.
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.
Key Roles of Women in the Indian Army
1. Officer Ranks
- Women can serve as commissioned officers in multiple branches.
- They are recruited through Short Service Commission (SSC) and Permanent Commission (PC) (recently allowed in many branches).
2. Combat Support and Services Women serve in:
- Army Medical Corps
- Army Education Corps
- Judge Advocate General (JAG) (military law)
- Signals and Engineering units
- Intelligence and Military Police
3. Corps of Military Police (CMP)
- In 2020, the Indian Army began recruiting women soldiers (non-officer ranks) for the first time in history in the CMP.
- Their duties include:
- Policing army establishments
- Controlling female offenders
- Handling gender-sensitive operations
4. Peacekeeping and UN Missions
Indian women officers have represented the country in UN Peacekeeping Missions, often serving as role models and community leaders in war- affected zones.
5. Leadership Roles
- Women officers have held command roles in administrative and operational capacities.
- Notable example: Lt. Gen. Punita Arora, the first woman in the Indian Armed Forces to reach the rank of Lieutenant General.
Recent Progress and Achievements
- In 2020, the Supreme Court ruled in favor of granting Permanent Commission to women in the Indian Army in noncombat streams.
- Women have begun training at institutions like the National Defence Academy (NDA) since 2021.
- Women are now eligible for command postings like their male counterparts.
Conclusion
Women in the Indian Army have proven their bravery, discipline, and dedication in every role assigned to them. Their growing presence is a symbol of gender equality and national pride.
IV. Birsa Munda: A Saga of Courage and Sacrifie Birsa Munda, a revered tribal freedom fihter, spiritual leader, and folk hero, belonged to the Munda tribe. Celebrated as a valiant warrior and a charismatic fiure, he emerged as a powerful symbol of tribal resistance against British colonial rule. Among the people of Jharkhand, he is affctionately known as Dharti Aaba—Father of the Land—and is honoured as a divine fiure for his selflss 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 reflcts 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.
V. Make a list of the patriotic songs in any language, including songs from your region. Share the songs with your classmates and teacher.
Answer:
Do it yourself.