Students can find accurate Class 8 English Extra Questions and Class 8 English Chapter 4 A Tale of Valour: Major Somnath Sharma and the Battle of Badgam Extra Questions and Answers for better understanding.
A Tale of Valour: Major Somnath Sharma and the Battle of Badgam Extra Question Answer Class 8 English Chapter 4
A Tale of Valour: Major Somnath Sharma and the Battle of Badgam Short Questions and Answers
Question 1.
Who was Major Somnath Sharma?
Answer:
Major Somnath Sharma was the first recipient of the Param Vir Chakra, awarded posthumously for his bravery during the Battle of Badgam in 1947.
Question 2.
Why was Major Somnath Sharma’s left hand in plaster during the battle?
Answer:
He was recovering from an injury but insisted on leading his men despite the condition of his hand.
Question 3.
What was the objective of Operation Gulmarg?
Answer:
Operation Gulmarg aimed to annex Kashmir by sending Pakistani-trained tribal invaders to overthrow the local government and capture key locations.
Question 4.
When was Kashmir officially made a part of India?
Answer:
Kashmir was officially made a part of India on 26 October 1947, after the Pakistani invasion began.
Question 5.
What key location were the infiltrators trying to capture?
Answer:
The infiltrators were trying to capture Srinagar airport.
Question 6.
What was Major Somnath Sharma’s last words before he was killed?
Answer:
“I shall not withdraw an inch but will fight to the last man and the last round” were the last words of Major Somnath Sharma before he was killed.
Question 7.
How many soldiers were in D Company, and how many invaders did they face?
Answer:
D Company had 90 soldiers and faced around 500 infiltrators.
Question 8.
What heroic act did Major Sharma perform to assist air strikes?
Answer:
He laid ground panels to guide the aircraft toward enemy targets.
Question 9.
What happened to Major Somnath Sharma during the battle?
Answer:
He was killed instantly by a mortar shell while assisting a machine gunner.
Question 10.
Where is Major Somnath Sharma’s name honoured today?
Answer:
His name is inscribed on the Honour Wall of the National War Memorial.
A Tale of Valour: Major Somnath Sharma and the Battle of Badgam Long Questions and Answers
Question 1.
Describe the events that led to the Battle of Badgam and Major Sharma’s role in it.
Answer:
The Battle of Badgam took place following Pakistan’s launch of Operation Gulmarg, where tribal invaders entered Kashmir. Major Somnath Sharma, despite having an injured hand, led D Company to secure Badgam. They were attacked by a large group of infiltrators, and his leadership and courage became instrumental in delaying the enemy, ultimately protecting Srinagar.
Question 2.
How did Major Somnath Sharma demonstrate leadership and patriotism during the battle?
Answer:
He refused to leave his men despite his injury. On the battlefield, he filled magazines, directed fire, and encouraged his troops. His final message showed his determination to fight to the last breath for the nation.
Question 3.
What were the consequences of the Battle of Badgam on the outcome of the war?
Answer:
The resistance offered by Major Sharma and his men delayed the enemy, allowing reinforcements to arrive. This prevented the fall of Srinagar, a key objective of the infiltrators, and helped India maintain control over Kashmir.
Question 4.
Explain the strategic importance of Badgam and Srinagar airport in the Indo-Pak war.
Answer:
The Srinagar airport was vital for transporting troops and supplies. Badgam, being elevated and close to the airfield, was a tactical point that could control access. Holding this village was crucial to preventing the enemy from seizing Srinagar.
Question 5.
What does Major Somnath Sharma’s life tell us about the values of a true soldier?
Answer:
His life reflects courage, commitment, duty, and selflessness. From fighting in World War II to defending Indian soil in Kashmir, he always prioritized the nation and his men over personal safety.
Question 6.
Describe the role played by Major Somnath Sharma during the intense battle despite being injured.
Answer:
Major Somnath Sharma, though injured with a plastered arm, showed exemplary courage during the battle. He moved fearlessly across the battlefield, motivating his men, directing fire, and filling magazines. His physical condition did not deter his spirit, and he continued to lead from the front. His voice and presence inspired the troops to hold their ground despite being heavily outnumbered. His actions demonstrate extraordinary bravery and commitment to his men and his mission.
Question 7.
Why is Major Somnath Sharma considered a symbol of courage and patriotism?
Answer:
Major Somnath Sharma is a symbol of courage and patriotism because of his heroic actions during the Battle of Badgam. Despite being injured, he chose to be on the front lines and fought fearlessly against a much larger force. His leadership motivated his men to resist and protect Srinagar, playing a crucial role in saving the Kashmir Valley for India. His sacrifice embodies the highest ideals of service to the nation.
Question 8.
What qualities of Major Somnath Sharma are evident from the lesson?
Answer:
The lesson highlights Major Sharma’s bravery, leadership, fearlessness, and unwavering sense of duty. His ability to inspire others in the face of danger, despite personal injuries, reflects his dedication. His willingness to fight till the last moment shows his selflessness and courage under fire.
Question 9.
Explain how Major Somnath Sharma’s actions during battle demonstrated true leadership.
Answer:
Major Somnath Sharma demonstrated true leadership by standing with his men during the most challenging moments. He led from the front, made quick tactical decisions, and inspired his troops with his courage. Instead of retreating due to his injuries or the enemy’s strength, he chose to stay and fight. This selfless decision elevated his status from a commander to a national hero.
Question 10.
How can the bravery of Major Somnath Sharma inspire today’s youth?
Answer:
Major Sharma’s bravery teaches youth the importance of courage, dedication, and selflessness. His actions remind us that true patriotism is about standing firm in difficult times and serving the nation beyond personal interests. His example can inspire young people to contribute to society, take responsibility, and act with integrity in their everyday lives.
A Tale of Valour: Major Somnath Sharma and the Battle of Badgam Extract Based Questions and Answers
I. In the quiet of the Kashmir Valley, where the echoes of D Company’s battle with infiltrators have long since faded, the story of Major Somnath Sharma remains a beacon of courage and sacrifice. His valour ensured that the tricolor would continue to fly over Srinagar, and his name is forever etched in the golden pages of India’s military history. The life and legacy of Major Somnath Sharma stands as a poignant reminder of the price of freedom and the enduring spirit of those who fought to protect it. His story, marked by selflessness and bravery, will continue to inspire and guide generations to come, ensuring that his sacrifice is never to be forgotten. His name is etched on the Honour Wall of the National War Memorial.
Question 1.
What does the phrase “a beacon of courage and sacrifice” tell us about Major Somnath Sharma?
Answer:
It tells us that Major Somnath Sharma is seen as a guiding example of bravery and selflessness. His actions inspire others and symbolize the values of patriotism and heroism.
Question 2.
Complete the sentence with suitable reason:
“Major Somnath Sharma’s name is forever etched in the golden pages of India’s military history because __________”
Answer:
he displayed extraordinary bravery and self-sacrifice during a crucial battle that helped secure Srinagar from enemy infiltrators.
Question 3.
Complete the sentence suitably.
Major Somnath Sharma’s name is etched on the __________
Answer:
Honour Wall of the National War Memorial.
Question 4.
What is the tone of the passage regarding Major Somnath Sharma’s legacy?
A. Humorous
B. Critical
C. Inspirational and respectful
D. Doubtful
Answer:
C. Inspirational and respectful
II. This is a tribute to the valiant Major Somnath Sharma, India’s first recipient oftheParam Vir Chakra, whose name is etched in the annals of history. His bravery and sacrifice stand as a beacon of inspiration for generations. At every intersection of patriotism—whether through the National War Memorial, soul stirring patriotic songs, books, and stories recounting acts of valour, or the celebrations ofAzadi ka Amrit Mahotsav— his memory is honoured. Major Somnath Sharma’s legacy of courage and devotion to the nation remains forever alive, forever alive… reminding us of the ultimate price paid for our freedom.
Question 1.
Choose the word that is closest in meaning to “etched” as used in the passage:
A. Forgotten
B. Drawn
C. Inscribed
D. Printed
Answer:
C. Inscribed
Question 2.
Select the correct option for both Assertion (A) and Reason (R) given below:
(A): Major Somnath Sharma’s legacy of courage and devotion to the nation remains forever alive.
(R): He reminds us of the ultimate price paid for our freedom and sacrifices made for the country.
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).
Question 3.
What does the passage describe Major Somnath Sharma as a symbol of?
A. Intelligence and leadership
B. Success and wealth
C. Courage and sacrifice
D. Tradition and culture
Answer:
C. Courage and sacrifice
Question 4.
Replace the underlined phrase with a word from the extract that has a similar meaning.
This is a respectful salute to Major Somnath Sharma, India’s first Param Vir Chakra awardee, whose name is inscribed in the records of history.
Answer:
annals
III. 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.
However, as the battle progressed, D Company began running out of ammunition. When Major Somnath Sharma informed Brigade headquarters about this, he was asked to pull back. Aware of the gravity of the situation, he responded with the words, “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. ”
Question 1.
What was Major Somnath Sharma’s response to the order to pull back?
A. He agreed and retreated with his men.
B. He decided to wait for air support.
C. He refused to withdraw and chose to continue fighting.
D. He called for backup immediately.
Answer:
C. He refused to withdraw and chose to continue fighting.
Question 2.
Complete the following sentence.
Major Somnath Sharma chose not to retreat because he understood that __________
Answer:
the enemy was very close, his men were outnumbered, and withdrawing would risk losing Srinagar.
Question 3.
Identify the tense used in the sentence: “He moved fearlessly through the battlefield, directing fire, filling magazines for his gunners, and encouraging his men to hold their ground.”
Answer:
Past tense (Simple Past with Present Participle phrases)
Question 4.
What does the phrase “to the last man and the last round” imply?
A. They had surrendered.
B. They would keep fighting until completely defeated.
C. They were awaiting orders.
D. They had enough resources.
Answer:
B. They would keep fighting until completely defeated.
A Tale of Valour: Major Somnath Sharma and the Battle of Badgam Extra Questions for Practice
Passage For Comprehension
Read the given extract 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) How did Major Somnath Sharma inspire his men during the battle?
A. By retreating to save lives
B. By moving to a safer location
C. By shouting orders from the rear
D. By leading with courage and urging them to fight bravely
(ii) Complete the Sentence.
Major Somnath Sharma moved fearlessly through the battlefield because ________
(iii) What is the tense used in the sentence: “He moved fearlessly through the battlefield, directing fire…”?
(iv) Assertion (A): Major Somnath Sharma displayed unparalleled bravery on the battlefield. Reason (R): He avoided combat and directed his troops from a distance.
Options:
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.
Short Answer Type Questions
Question 1.
What challenges did Major Somnath Sharma and his men face during the battle?
Question 2.
How did Major Somnath Sharma’s leadership impact his soldiers?
Question 3.
Why is Major Somnath Sharma’s bravery described as ‘unparalleled’?
Question 4.
What does the phrase ‘cut through the chaos’ suggest about Major Sharma’s leadership?
Question 5.
Mention two actions taken by Major Somnath Sharma on the battlefield.
Long Answer Type Questions
Question 1.
Discuss the legacy of Major Somnath Sharma. How is he remembered today?
Question 2.
What inspired Major Sharma to join the military and serve with such dedication?
Question 3.
How did the bravery of D Company impact the morale of both Indian and Pakistani forces?
Question 4.
Why was Major Sharma awarded the Param Vir Chakra, and what does it signify?
Question 5.
How does Major Sharma’s story reflect the price of freedom and the spirit of patriotism?