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A Homage to Our Brave Soldiers Questions & Answers | Class 7 English | CBSE NCERT
Chapter-wise questions and answers for A Homage to Our Brave Soldiers in Class 7 English, with a clear summary, key points, and exam-ready model answers.
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About 129 min readA Homage to Our Brave SoldiersUpdated 29 Sep 2026
Questions and answers
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1. 1. (MCQ) What had Soumya and Ananda discussed in their last conversation?
(a) Their school examinations
(b) War and the importance of peace
(c) Their hobbies
(d) A trip to Bengaluru
Dear Ananda, Hope you are all doing well! Do you remember our last conversation about war and the importance of peace? We talked about how India had to struggle for its Independence from the British for many centuries. Post-independence our country has had to fight several wars to protect its borders, territorial integrity, and its people. This made me wonder, who were these brave Indian people? They fought to protect our country and sacrificed their lives so that we could lead our lives in peace. What were their names? Where did they come from? Does anyone remember anything about them?
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(b) — Soumya opens by recalling "our last conversation about war and the importance of peace".
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2. 2. (MCQ) In this extract, 'territorial integrity' means ______.
(a) building new territories
(b) writing peace treaties
(c) safeguarding the nation's borders
(d) trading with neighbouring countries
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(c) — The gloss in the text explains 'territorial integrity' as safeguarding the nation's borders, which is why the wars were fought.
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3. 3. (MCQ) Why does Soumya write this long letter to Ananda?
(a) To invite her to Bengaluru
(b) To share an inspiring experience that she "could not help sharing"
(c) To describe her examination results
(d) To talk about her favourite food
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(b) — The letter flows out of her moving educational trip, which gave her answers about India's brave soldiers and left her excited to share them.
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4. 4. (Fill in the Blank) This letter is written by ______ to her friend ______.
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Soumya; Ananda.
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5. 5. (Short Answer) Which questions troubled Soumya before her trip?
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Soumya wondered who the brave Indians were who fought and sacrificed their lives to protect the country. She asked: What were their names? Where did they come from? Does anyone remember anything about them?
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6. 6. (Short Answer — Inference) Why, according to Soumya, has India had to fight wars even after Independence?
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She says that post-independence, India had to fight several wars to protect its borders, territorial integrity, and its people. In other words, freedom had to be defended again and again so that citizens could live in peace.
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7. 1. (MCQ) When was the construction of the National War Memorial completed?
(a) April 2018
(b) February 2019
(c) January 1972
(d) August 1947
Last week I got the answers to some of my questions during an educational trip to New Delhi organised by our school. You may recall, I was looking forward to this trip and our visit to many places of historical and educational significance. I learnt several new and interesting things, and I am excited to share them with you. Let me begin by asking you to guess the name of the monument that I found most inspiring. Let's see if you can guess. The construction of this monument started in April 2018 and was completed in February 2019. It was envisioned and then inaugurated by India's Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi in February 2019. In terms of location and size, it is spread over 40 acres of land near the iconic India Gate. But more importantly, it is a tribute to some of the bravest Indians. I'm sure you've guessed! It's the 'National War Memorial'. Won't you say, a long-desired aspiration was fulfilled?
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(b) — The construction started in April 2018 and was completed in February 2019.
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8. 2. (MCQ) Where is the National War Memorial located, and how large is it?
(a) 40 acres near the iconic India Gate
(b) 15 acres near the Red Fort
(c) 29,000 acres near Kartavyapath
(d) 26,000 acres near Rajghat
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(a) — The text says it "is spread over 40 acres of land near the iconic India Gate".
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9. 3. (MCQ) Who envisioned and inaugurated the National War Memorial?
(a) The President of India
(b) The Chief of the Army Staff
(c) India's Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi
(d) Major Somnath Sharma
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(c) — It "was envisioned and then inaugurated by India's Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi in February 2019".
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10. 4. (Fill in the Blank) The word 'envisioned' in this extract means ______.
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visualised.
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11. 5. (Short Answer) Why does Soumya call the National War Memorial 'a long-desired aspiration fulfilled'?
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She means that Indians had wished for such a memorial for a long time — a monument to remember the soldiers who sacrificed their lives for the country. Its completion in February 2019 finally fulfilled that collective wish.
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12. 6. (Short Answer — Personal Response) Soumya calls the memorial "a tribute to some of the bravest Indians". What do you understand by the word 'tribute'?
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A tribute is something said or done to show respect and gratitude publicly. The memorial is a tribute because through its tablets, flame and Chakras, the whole nation honours its brave soldiers and remembers their sacrifice.
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13. 1. (MCQ) According to Soumya's teacher, why do we enjoy freedom and security today?
(a) Because of the many brave men and women who served in the Indian Armed Forces over decades
(b) Because wars stopped after 1947
(c) Because India is surrounded by friendly countries
(d) Because of the India Gate monument
Our visit to the National War Memorial began with our teacher explaining that even after Independence, India has had to fight many wars to protect herself, and the freedom and security we enjoy today is because of the many brave men and women who have served in the Indian Armed Forces over decades. Sadly, she said, war always takes its toll, and therefore, many brave soldiers have had to sacrifice their lives for the country even after our Independence in 1947. This is what makes monuments like the National War Memorial extremely important, so that we should never forget the cost of freedom. We are aware, always, of the pain and horrors of war. We learnt that each brick of the memorial is called a tablet, and it bears the names of soldiers who fought for India and made the supreme sacrifice in different wars from 1947 till date, including the Indo-China conflict of 1962, the Indo-Pak Wars in 1965 & 1971 and the Kargil War in 1999. There are 29,000 tablets on which more than 26,000 names of fallen soldiers have been etched.
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(a) — The teacher directly links today's freedom and security to decades of service by brave soldiers.
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14. 2. (MCQ) What is each brick of the National War Memorial called?
(a) A mural
(b) A tablet
(c) A wreath
(d) An obelisk
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(b) — The text states that "each brick of the memorial is called a tablet", and it bears names of fallen soldiers.
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15. 3. (MCQ) How many tablets are there at the memorial, and how many names have been etched on them?
(a) 26,000 tablets and 29,000 names
(b) 21 tablets and 40,000 names
(c) 29,000 tablets and more than 26,000 names
(d) 15 tablets and 21,000 names
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(c) — There are 29,000 tablets carrying more than 26,000 names of fallen soldiers.
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16. 4. (True/False) The tablets bear the names of soldiers who made the supreme sacrifice in the Kargil War of 1999.
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True — the tablets record the sacrifice of soldiers in wars from 1947 till date, including the Kargil War in 1999.
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17. 5. (Short Answer) Which wars are mentioned in connection with the names on the tablets?
Show answer
The tablets bear the names of soldiers who made the supreme sacrifice from 1947 till date, including the Indo-China conflict of 1962, the Indo-Pak Wars in 1965 and 1971, and the Kargil War in 1999.
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18. 6. (Short Answer — Inference) Why does Soumya say that monuments like the National War Memorial remind us "never [to] forget the cost of freedom"?
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Because thousands of soldiers have had to sacrifice their lives for the country even after Independence in 1947, freedom has been purchased at an enormous human cost. The memorial, with its 29,000 tablets and more than 26,000 etched names, keeps that cost — the pain and horrors of war — forever before our eyes.
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19. 1. (MCQ) How many bravehearts have been awarded the Param Vir Chakra, according to the text?
(a) 29,000
(b) 26,000
(c) 21
(d) 40
It was heartening to know that our government has recognised the sacrifice of brave soldiers. Our teacher told us about the 21 bravehearts who were awarded the Param Vir Chakra (PVC), India's highest wartime gallantry medal, for their service to the nation. She also told us about Maha Vir Chakra (MVC), Kirti Chakra (KC), Vir Chakra (VrC), and Shaurya Chakra (SC). Major Somnath Sharma was posthumously awarded India's first PVC in the Battle of Badgam in 1947. Later some more PVCs were awarded for exceptional gallantry during the India-China Conflict of 1962, and the India-Pakistan War of 1965. Besides, a PVC was also awarded for service during the UN Peace Keeping Operations in Congo.
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(c) — The teacher told them about "the 21 bravehearts who were awarded the Param Vir Chakra (PVC)".
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20. 2. (MCQ) Which of these is India's highest wartime gallantry medal?
(a) Maha Vir Chakra
(b) Param Vir Chakra
(c) Kirti Chakra
(d) Shaurya Chakra
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(b) — The text names the Param Vir Chakra as "India's highest wartime gallantry medal".
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21. 3. (MCQ) Major Somnath Sharma was posthumously awarded India's first PVC for his gallantry in ______.
(a) the Kargil War in 1999
(b) the India-China Conflict of 1962
(c) the Battle of Badgam in 1947
(d) the UN Peace Keeping Operations in Congo
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(c) — He earned it in the Battle of Badgam in 1947, soon after Independence.
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22. 4. (Fill in the Blank) A PVC was also awarded for service during the UN Peace Keeping Operations in ______.
Show answer
Congo.
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23. 5. (Short Answer) Name the gallantry awards mentioned in this extract besides the Param Vir Chakra.
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The teacher also told the students about the Maha Vir Chakra (MVC), the Kirti Chakra (KC), the Vir Chakra (VrC) and the Shaurya Chakra (SC).
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24. 6. (Short Answer — Vocabulary in Context) What does 'posthumously' mean, and why is it used for Major Somnath Sharma's award?
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'Posthumously' means after death. It is used for Major Somnath Sharma because he laid down his life in the Battle of Badgam, and the Param Vir Chakra was awarded to him after his death.
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25. 1. (MCQ) Captain Mahendra Nath Mulla was awarded the ______.
(a) Param Vir Chakra
(b) Maha Vir Chakra
(c) Kirti Chakra
(d) Shaurya Chakra
In the 1971 war, some of the heroes who were awarded the PVC (posthumously) include Lance Naik Albert Ekka, Flying Officer Nirmal Jit Singh Sekhon, Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal, and Major Hoshiar Singh. Some Navy personnel including Captain Mahendra Nath Mulla were also awarded MVC for their exemplary courage and leadership. Then the teacher shared with us the citation of Param Vir Chakra awardee Lance Naik Albert Ekka. It touched my heart and also motivated me. We were awestruck and humbled by his bravery. I aspire to be courageous like him when I join the Army!
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(b) — Some Navy personnel, including Captain Mulla, were awarded the MVC for their exemplary courage and leadership.
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26. 2. (MCQ) How did Albert Ekka's citation affect Soumya?
(a) It bored her
(b) It touched her heart and motivated her
(c) It made her afraid of the Army
(d) It made her proud of her school
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(b) — She writes that the citation "touched my heart and also motivated me".
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27. 3. (MCQ) What does Soumya aspire to become?
(a) A teacher
(b) A soldier in the Army, courageous like Albert Ekka
(c) A writer of letters
(d) A guide at the memorial
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(b) — She writes, "I aspire to be courageous like him when I join the Army!"
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28. 4. (One-Word Question) What does the word 'awestruck' mean?
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Amazed.
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29. 5. (Short Answer) Name any three heroes of the 1971 war mentioned in this extract.
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Any three of these: Lance Naik Albert Ekka, Flying Officer Nirmal Jit Singh Sekhon, Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal, and Major Hoshiar Singh.
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30. 6. (Short Answer — Inference) Why were the students "awestruck and humbled" by Albert Ekka's bravery?
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The students were awestruck — filled with wonder — at Ekka's extraordinary courage and self-sacrifice. They were humbled because his bravery made their own lives and troubles appear small; before such greatness, they could only bow their heads in admiration.
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31. 1. (MCQ) Where did the attack described in this citation take place?
(a) Gangasagar on the eastern front
(b) Badgam in Jammu and Kashmir
(c) Drass in Kargil
(d) Congo
Lance Naik Albert Ekka was in the left forward company of a Battalion of the Brigade of Guards during their attack on the enemy defence at Gangasagar on the eastern front. This was a well-fortified position held in strength by the enemy. The assaulting troops were subjected to intense shelling and heavy small arms fire, but they charged on to the objective and were locked in bitter hand-to-hand combat. Lance Naik Albert Ekka noticed an enemy Light Machine Gun inflicting heavy casualties on his company. With complete disregard to his personal safety, he charged the enemy bunker, bayoneted two enemy soldiers and silenced the Light Machine Gun. Though seriously wounded in this encounter, he continued to fight alongside his comrades through the mile deep objective, clearing bunker after bunker with undaunted courage.
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(a) — Ekka's battalion attacked the enemy defence at Gangasagar on the eastern front during the 1971 war.
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32. 2. (MCQ) What did Ekka do when he noticed the enemy Light Machine Gun?
(a) He retreated to safety
(b) He charged the enemy bunker, bayoneted two enemy soldiers and silenced the gun
(c) He called for more ammunition
(d) He hid behind a wall
Show answer
(b) — With complete disregard for his personal safety, he charged the bunker and silenced the Light Machine Gun.
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33. 3. (MCQ) The phrase 'with complete disregard to his personal safety' shows that Ekka was ______.
(a) careless
(b) selfless and utterly courageous
(c) unaware of the danger
(d) ordered to take risks
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(b) — He knowingly put his own life at risk to save his company from casualties, which shows selfless courage.
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34. 4. (Fill in the Blank) Though seriously wounded, Ekka continued to fight alongside his ______.
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comrades.
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35. 5. (Short Answer) What was the greatest danger to Ekka's company, and how did he deal with it?
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The greatest danger was an enemy Light Machine Gun inflicting heavy casualties on his company. Ekka charged the enemy bunker single-handedly, bayoneted two enemy soldiers and silenced the gun.
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36. 6. (Short Answer — Inference) Which words in the citation tell you that the enemy position was strong and dangerous?
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The citation calls it "a well-fortified position held in strength by the enemy", and says the troops faced "intense shelling and heavy small arms fire" before bitter hand-to-hand combat — proof of the enemy's strength.
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37. 1. (MCQ) What was Ekka's final act of gallantry in this action?
(a) He drove an enemy tank away
(b) He scaled a side wall, entered the bunker and bayoneted the enemy who was still firing
(c) He carried a wounded comrade to safety
(d) He called an airstrike on the building
Towards the northern end of the objective, one enemy Medium Machine Gun opened up from the second storey of a well-fortified building inflicting heavy casualties and holding up the attack. Once again, this gallant soldier without worrying about his personal safety, despite his serious injury and the heavy volume of enemy fire, crawled forward till he reached the building and lobbed a grenade through the loophole of the bunker, killing one enemy and injuring the other. The Medium Machine Gun, however, continued to fire. With outstanding courage and grim determination, Lance Naik Albert Ekka scaled a side wall and entering the bunker, bayoneted the enemy who was still firing and thus silenced the Machine Gun, saving further casualties to his company and ensured the success of the attack. In this process, however, he received serious injuries and succumbed to them after the capture of the objective. In this action, Lance Naik Albert Ekka displayed the most conspicuous valour, determination and made the supreme sacrifice in the best traditions of the Army.
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(b) — Despite his injuries, he climbed into the bunker and silenced the Medium Machine Gun by bayoneting the soldier still firing it.
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38. 2. (MCQ) How did Ekka first try to silence the Medium Machine Gun?
(a) By lobbing a grenade through the loophole of the bunker
(b) By shooting from a distance
(c) By setting fire to the building
(d) By asking his comrades to retreat
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(a) — He crawled forward despite his serious injury and lobbed a grenade through the loophole, killing one enemy and injuring the other.
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39. 3. (MCQ) 'Undaunted courage' means ______.
(a) careless bravery
(b) courage that cannot be shaken or discouraged
(c) false courage
(d) courage shown only once
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(b) — 'Undaunted' means not discouraged by danger; Ekka's courage never wavered despite wounds and enemy fire.
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40. 4. (True/False) Lance Naik Albert Ekka survived the battle at Gangasagar.
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False — he received serious injuries and succumbed to them after the capture of the objective.
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41. 5. (Short Answer) What did Ekka's actions ensure for his company?
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By silencing the Medium Machine Gun, he saved his company from further casualties and ensured the success of the attack; the objective was captured.
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42. 6. (Short Answer — Vocabulary in Context) What is meant by the 'supreme sacrifice' that Ekka made "in the best traditions of the Army"?
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The 'supreme sacrifice' means giving up one's life for the country. Ekka fought on despite serious injuries and died after the objective was captured, following the highest traditions of the Army — placing duty and country above life itself.
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43. 1. (MCQ) What does the Amar Jawan Jyoti represent?
(a) A statue of a soldier
(b) An immortal flame kept ablaze day and night to revere the sacrifices of soldiers
(c) A museum of weapons
(d) A gallery of murals
As we continued our visit around the National War Memorial, we came across another important installation called Amar Jawan Jyoti that commemorates our soldiers. The name, as you may have guessed, represents an immortal flame that is kept ablaze all through the day and night to revere the sacrifices of our soldiers. Earlier the Amar Jawan Jyoti, which also displayed a rifle and a helmet, was alighted under the arch of India Gate in January 1972 to commemorate India's victory in the India-Pakistan War of 1971. The National War Memorial now includes Amar Jawan Jyoti in the obelisk, which is surrounded by four Chakras. During the inauguration, the Prime Minister lit a new flame to commemorate the fallen heroes. Later, the old flame at India Gate was also merged with the new flame at the National War Memorial. You can see the obelisk surrounded by wreaths that have been placed as a mark of respect. The lighting design is planned in such a way that it transforms the monument's landscape as sunlight changes from dawn to dusk. It truly is a majestic site that filled me with pride for our nation. I was also overwhelmed by the interminable flame as a metaphor for eternal stories of courage and valour.
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(b) — The name means an immortal flame, burning "all through the day and night" in reverence for soldiers' sacrifices.
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44. 2. (MCQ) When and why was the earlier Amar Jawan Jyoti lit under the arch of India Gate?
(a) In January 1972, to commemorate India's victory in the India-Pakistan War of 1971
(b) In February 2019, to open the National War Memorial
(c) In April 2018, to begin the memorial's construction
(d) In 1947, to mark Independence
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(a) — It was alighted under the arch of India Gate in January 1972 to commemorate India's victory in the 1971 war.
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45. 3. (MCQ) What happened to the old flame at India Gate?
(a) It was blown out
(b) It was replaced by electric lights
(c) It was merged with the new flame at the National War Memorial
(d) It was shifted to Bengaluru
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(c) — The old flame at India Gate "was also merged with the new flame at the National War Memorial".
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46. 4. (Fill in the Blank) The Amar Jawan Jyoti is now included in the ______, which is surrounded by four Chakras.
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obelisk.
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47. 5. (Short Answer) What did the earlier Amar Jawan Jyoti at India Gate also display?
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Besides the flame, the earlier Amar Jawan Jyoti also displayed a rifle and a helmet — symbols of the fallen soldier.
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48. 6. (Short Answer — Inference) Why was Soumya "overwhelmed by the interminable flame", and what metaphor did she see in it?
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The ever-burning flame moved her deeply because it seemed to stand for "eternal stories of courage and valour". Just as the flame never dies, the memory of the soldiers' bravery and sacrifice will live on forever.
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49. 1. (MCQ) How many concentric circles (Chakras) surround the central obelisk of the National War Memorial?
(a) Three
(b) Four
(c) Five
(d) Six
The National War Memorial consists of four concentric circles, which are known as Amar Chakra, Veerta Chakra, Tyag Chakra, and Raksha Chakra around a 15-metre-tall central obelisk with the eternal flame—the Amar Jawan Jyoti. It also houses bronze and stone murals and graphic panels. Isn't it amazing! The innermost circle represents the Amar Chakra, also known as the 'Circle of Immortality'. This has the Obelisk with Eternal Flame. The Amar Jawan Jyoti flame symbolises the immortality of the spirit of fallen soldiers with the assurance that the nation will never forget their sacrifice. The second circle is called the Veerta Chakra, which is also known as the 'Circle of Bravery'. There is a covered gallery that exhibits six murals crafted in bronze, depicting valiant battle actions of our Armed Forces. The third circle represents the Tyag Chakra, also known as the 'Circle of Sacrifice'. The circular concentric walls of honour symbolise the ancient war formation, which is called Chakravyuh. The walls are covered with granite tablets and individual tablet is solely dedicated to each fallen hero of post-Independent India. Their names are etched in golden letters. The outermost circle represents the Raksha Chakra, which is also known as the 'Circle of Protection'. In this chakra the row of trees is a reassurance to the citizens of the country about their safety against any threat. Each tree represents the soldiers who ensure the territorial integrity of the nation.
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(b) — The memorial consists of four concentric circles: Amar Chakra, Veerta Chakra, Tyag Chakra and Raksha Chakra.
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50. 2. (MCQ) Which Chakra exhibits six murals crafted in bronze?
(a) Amar Chakra
(b) Tyag Chakra
(c) Veerta Chakra
(d) Raksha Chakra
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(c) — The Veerta Chakra, the 'Circle of Bravery', has a covered gallery exhibiting six bronze murals of valiant battle actions.
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51. 3. (MCQ) The circular concentric walls of the Tyag Chakra symbolise an ancient war formation called ______.
(a) Chakravyuh
(b) Raksha Chakra
(c) Kartavyapath
(d) Amar Jawan
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(a) — The walls of honour in the 'Circle of Sacrifice' symbolise the ancient war formation called Chakravyuh.
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52. 4. (Fill in the Blank) In the Tyag Chakra, the names of fallen heroes are etched in ______ letters.
Show answer
golden.
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53. 5. (Short Answer) What does the row of trees in the Raksha Chakra stand for?
Show answer
The row of trees in the 'Circle of Protection' is a reassurance to citizens about their safety against any threat. Each tree represents the soldiers who ensure the territorial integrity of the nation.
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54. 6. (Short Answer — Inference) What does the Amar Jawan Jyoti flame in the Amar Chakra symbolise?
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The flame symbolises the immortality of the spirit of fallen soldiers. It carries the assurance that the nation will never forget their sacrifice — their spirit lives on forever, like the eternal flame.
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55. 1. (MCQ) Where did the students spend the whole day?
(a) At India Gate only
(b) At the National War Memorial and the surrounding areas of Kartavyapath
(c) At the school in Bengaluru
(d) At the Bougainvillea Garden in Chandigarh
We spent the whole day, from morning to evening, at the National War Memorial and the surrounding areas, marked by majestic lawns and grand buildings of Kartavyapath. We were immersed in the ambience that was solemn and a reminder of what a free nation could achieve. The overall environment created an emotive experience that was visually inspiring. I felt as if I had developed a bond with the place. I learnt a lot, but I also have to admit that the various discourses during the day brought tears to my eyes. It was sad to think about the massive devastation and loss of life caused by wars. It motivated me to live a life worthy of the sacrifices of our heroes. After our visit, the class decided to make presentations on stories of valour of the bravehearts we came across at the National War Memorial. We divided ourselves into five groups. We decided to make presentations depicting the courageous stories of the soldiers. Our teacher has also advised us to share our experience during the school assembly. I am delighted that all the students of our school will get to know about the National War Memorial and the soldiers it commemorates. I am going to give a presentation on the story of Major Padmapani Acharya, who fought for India in the 1999 Kargil War and was awarded the Maha Vir Chakra.
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(b) — They spent the day from morning to evening at the memorial and the surrounding areas marked by majestic lawns and grand buildings of Kartavyapath.
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56. 2. (MCQ) Why did the day's discourses bring tears to Soumya's eyes?
(a) She was tired after the trip
(b) It was sad to think about the massive devastation and loss of life caused by wars
(c) She missed her friend Ananda
(d) She lost her way at the memorial
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(b) — The serious discussions during the day made her face the devastation and loss of life that wars cause.
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57. 3. (MCQ) On whose story is Soumya going to give a presentation?
(a) Major Somnath Sharma
(b) Captain Mahendra Nath Mulla
(c) Major Padmapani Acharya
(d) Captain Anuj Nayyar
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(c) — She will present the story of Major Padmapani Acharya, who fought in the 1999 Kargil War and was awarded the Maha Vir Chakra.
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58. 4. (True/False) The class divided itself into five groups to make presentations on stories of valour.
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True — "We divided ourselves into five groups" to depict the courageous stories of the soldiers.
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59. 5. (Short Answer) What motivated Soumya after the visit, apart from her presentation plans?
Show answer
The visit motivated her to "live a life worthy of the sacrifices of our heroes". It also strengthened her resolve, expressed earlier, to join the Army and be courageous like Albert Ekka.
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60. 6. (Short Answer — Personal Response) The visit was both inspiring and saddening for Soumya. Explain how the two feelings existed together.
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The memorial's majestic site and the stories of valour filled her with pride and inspiration — a visually inspiring, emotive experience. At the same time, the discourses on war's massive devastation and loss of life brought tears to her eyes. The sadness made the inspiration deeper: she resolved to live worthily of the heroes' sacrifice.
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61. 1. (MCQ) When was Major Padmapani Acharya assigned the task of capturing the enemy position?
(a) On 28 June 1999, in the Kargil War
(b) In January 1972, at India Gate
(c) In the Battle of Badgam in 1947
(d) During the UN operations in Congo
On 28 June 1999, Major Padmapani Acharya as a Company Commander, was assigned the formidable task of capturing an enemy position which was heavily fortified, strongly held and covered with mines and sweeping machine gun and artillery fire. ... With utter disregard to his personal safety, Major Padmapani Acharya took the reserve platoon of his company and led it through raining artillery shells. Even as his men were falling to the murderous enemy fire, he continued to encourage his men and charged at the enemy up the steep rock face with his reserve platoon. Unmindful of the hail of bullets from the enemy's position, Major Padmapani Acharya crawled up to the enemy position and lobbed grenades. In this daring assault, Major Acharya was severely injured. Despite being seriously injured and unable to move, he ordered his men to leave him and charge at the enemy while he continued to fire at the enemy. The enemy position was finally over-run and the objective was captured. After completion of the mission, the officer however, succumbed to his injuries. Major Padmapani Acharya displayed exceptional courage, leadership and spirit of self-sacrifice in the face of the enemy. Before he went into battle, he wrote a letter to his father that he wasn't afraid or scared about losing his life while trying to protect the motherland. Quoting Shrimad Bhagavad Gita he went on to say: "If you fight, you will either be slain on the battlefield and go to the celestial abode, or you will gain victory and enjoy the kingdom on the earth. Therefore, arise O, son of Kunti! Be determined to fight."
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(a) — As a Company Commander, he was given this formidable task on 28 June 1999, during the Kargil War.
1 marks · mcq
62. 2. (MCQ) What did Major Acharya order his men to do when he was severely injured and unable to move?
(a) To retreat down the mountain
(b) To leave him and charge at the enemy while he continued to fire
(c) To call for a helicopter
(d) To surrender the position
Show answer
(b) — Even when he could not move, he kept firing at the enemy and ordered his men to leave him and charge ahead.
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63. 3. (MCQ) Which award was Major Acharya given for his action in the Kargil War?
(a) Param Vir Chakra
(b) Maha Vir Chakra
(c) Shaurya Chakra
(d) Kirti Chakra
Show answer
(b) — Soumya says he fought for India in the 1999 Kargil War and was awarded the Maha Vir Chakra (posthumously).
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64. 4. (Fill in the Blank) Before going into battle, Major Acharya wrote a letter to his ______, quoting the Shrimad Bhagavad Gita.
Show answer
father.
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65. 5. (Short Answer) What does the Bhagavad Gita quotation tell us about Major Acharya's attitude towards death?
Show answer
The quotation shows that he was not afraid or scared of losing his life while protecting the motherland. He believed that a soldier who fights honestly either wins glory in victory or attains the celestial abode in death — so he resolved to fight with determination.
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66. 6. (Short Answer — Inference) Which qualities of Major Acharya does the citation highlight?
Show answer
The citation highlights his exceptional courage — charging up the steep rock face through "raining artillery shells"; his leadership — encouraging his men even as they fell; and his spirit of self-sacrifice — ordering his men to leave him and continue fighting while he kept firing, until he succumbed to his injuries.
1 marks · mcq
67. 1. (MCQ) According to Ananda, how is a war memorial more than just a monument?
(a) It is a place to play and picnic
(b) It is an expression of deep gratitude for the supreme sacrifice of brave soldiers
(c) It is a museum of old weapons
(d) It is a government office
Dear Soumya, It was such a pleasure to receive your letter. I enjoyed reading your experience of the visit to the National War Memorial in Delhi, as well as your observations and feelings during the visit. You really have an eye for detail, and being the sensitive person that you are, you have been able to capture the essence of the emotions associated with this memorial. I was happy to hear that you got an opportunity to visit the National War Memorial. I have heard a lot about it. Some people might see a war memorial as just a monument, statue, an edifice to celebrate our war heroes or victory and commemorate those who lost their lives or got injured in the war. In my view, it is also an expression of deep gratitude for the supreme sacrifice made by our brave soldiers defending the sovereignty and integrity of the country. I feel motivated and I am seriously thinking of joining the Armed Forces to serve my motherland. I also feel it is our duty to periodically visit such places to honour our valiant soldiers, who have made great sacrifices for us. Their sacrifices enable us to walk freely in our country without fear of enemy threats. ... Your letter has reminded me of a time when we visited the war memorial in our city. While visiting one of Chandigarh's gardens, we saw a lot of activity around the Bougainvillea Garden in Sector 3. As we approached the garden, we saw people offering flowers and prayers. We joined the group out of curiosity and quickly realised that they were all there to pay respect to the soldiers at the War Memorial located in the heart of the garden. When I think back about my visit where everyone was dedicating flowers as a mark of respect to our soldiers, I was reminded of the poem 'Pushp ki Abhilasha' by Makhanlal Chaturvedi — the flower's wish to be cast on the path taken by the brave who offer their heads for the motherland. I must say, I was inspired by your idea of presenting the valourous stories of India's soldiers. There are so many stories of courage, bravery and sacrifice which remind us that many of the challenges we face in our lives are inconsequential. We can enjoy peace in our country and the luxury of exchanging ideas with our friends because our Armed Forces are alert and work hard to create that environment for us. Very recently, I read in the newspaper that Captain Anuj Nayyar, MVC, an Indian Army officer of the 17 Jat regiment was posthumously awarded the Maha Vir Chakra, India's second highest gallantry award, for exemplary valour during the Kargil War in 1999. ... his mother Meena Nayyar has written a memoir titled 'Tiger of Drass– Capt. Anuj Nayyar – 23 – Kargil Hero'. "Writing about the smallest things about your child who is not with you really used to shake me, but gradually I came to terms with it by telling myself that if I didn't write about him no one would know about Anuj's sacrifice." ... We have found out a mobile app 'National War Memorial and Museum'. This app is very interactive and provides answers to our queries in 21 languages. The murals on the walls are enchanting. A great learning experience indeed!
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(b) — While some see it as a monument or edifice, Ananda sees it as an expression of deep gratitude to soldiers defending the country's sovereignty and integrity.
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68. 2. (MCQ) What does Ananda feel motivated to do after reading Soumya's letter?
(a) To become a tour guide
(b) To seriously think of joining the Armed Forces to serve her motherland
(c) To start collecting stamps full-time
(d) To write a book on gardens
Show answer
(b) — She writes, "I feel motivated and I am seriously thinking of joining the Armed Forces to serve my motherland."
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69. 3. (MCQ) Where did Ananda see people offering flowers and prayers at a war memorial?
(a) At India Gate, New Delhi
(b) At the Bougainvillea Garden in Sector 3, Chandigarh
(c) At Kartavyapath
(d) At a school in Bengaluru
Show answer
(b) — The War Memorial located in the heart of the Bougainvillea Garden in Sector 3, Chandigarh, drew people offering flowers and prayers.
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70. 4. (One-Word Question) What is a 'memoir'?
Show answer
An account of one's personal life and experiences — like the one Meena Nayyar wrote about her son Anuj.
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71. 5. (Short Answer) Why was Ananda reminded of the poem 'Pushp ki Abhilasha' when she recalled the Chandigarh war memorial?
Show answer
At the garden she saw everyone dedicating flowers as a mark of respect to the soldiers. This reminded her of Makhanlal Chaturvedi's poem, in which a flower wishes to be cast on the path taken by the brave who offer their heads for the motherland — flowers offered to soldiers echo that very wish.
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72. 6. (Short Answer — Inference) What, according to Ananda, do the sacrifices of soldiers enable ordinary citizens to do?
Show answer
Their sacrifices enable us to walk freely in our country without fear of enemy threats. Because the Armed Forces are alert and work hard, we can also enjoy peace in our country and the luxury of exchanging ideas with our friends.
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73. 1. What is the National War Memorial a tribute to?
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The National War Memorial is a tribute to some of the bravest Indians — the soldiers who fought for India and made the supreme sacrifice in different wars from 1947 till date. It ensures that the nation never forgets the cost of freedom.
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74. 2. When was the National War Memorial built, and who inaugurated it?
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Its construction started in April 2018 and was completed in February 2019. It was envisioned and inaugurated by India's Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi in February 2019.
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75. 3. Where is the National War Memorial located, and how big is it?
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The memorial is spread over 40 acres of land near the iconic India Gate in New Delhi, with a 15-metre-tall central obelisk surrounded by four Chakras.
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76. 4. What is a 'tablet' at the National War Memorial, and what does it bear?
Show answer
Each brick of the memorial is called a tablet. It bears the names of soldiers who fought for India and made the supreme sacrifice in different wars from 1947 till date.
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77. 5. How many tablets are there at the memorial, and how many names have been etched on them?
Show answer
There are 29,000 tablets at the memorial, on which more than 26,000 names of fallen soldiers have been etched.
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78. 6. Name the four Chakras of the National War Memorial.
Show answer
The memorial consists of four concentric circles known as the Amar Chakra, the Veerta Chakra, the Tyag Chakra and the Raksha Chakra, around the central obelisk with the eternal flame.
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79. 7. What does the Tyag Chakra symbolise, and what does it contain?
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The Tyag Chakra is the 'Circle of Sacrifice'. Its circular concentric walls of honour symbolise the ancient war formation called Chakravyuh, and they are covered with granite tablets dedicated to each fallen hero, whose names are etched in golden letters.
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80. 8. Why is the Amar Jawan Jyoti kept burning all day and night?
Show answer
The Amar Jawan Jyoti is an immortal flame that is kept ablaze all through the day and night to revere the sacrifices of our soldiers. It symbolises the immortality of the spirit of fallen soldiers and the nation's promise never to forget them.
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81. 9. Where was the Amar Jawan Jyoti earlier, and why was it lit there?
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The earlier Amar Jawan Jyoti, which also displayed a rifle and a helmet, was alighted under the arch of India Gate in January 1972 to commemorate India's victory in the India-Pakistan War of 1971. It was later merged with the new flame at the National War Memorial.
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82. 10. What is the Param Vir Chakra? How many bravehearts have received it, according to the text?
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The Param Vir Chakra is India's highest wartime gallantry medal. According to the text, 21 bravehearts have been awarded the PVC for their service to the nation.
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83. 11. Who received India's first Param Vir Chakra, and for which battle?
Show answer
Major Somnath Sharma was posthumously awarded India's first Param Vir Chakra in the Battle of Badgam in 1947.
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84. 12. What did Lance Naik Albert Ekka do at Gangasagar that won him the PVC?
Show answer
At Gangasagar on the eastern front, Ekka charged an enemy bunker and silenced a Light Machine Gun, and though seriously wounded, he crawled forward and silenced a Medium Machine Gun by bayoneting the enemy inside, bunker after bunker. He saved his company from further casualties and ensured the success of the attack, succumbing to his injuries afterwards.
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85. 13. How did Major Padmapani Acharya show courage on 28 June 1999?
Show answer
Leading his reserve platoon through raining artillery shells up a steep rock face, he crawled to the enemy position and lobbed grenades. Severely injured and unable to move, he ordered his men to leave him and charge while he kept firing, until the objective was captured. He later succumbed to his injuries.
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86. 14. What did Major Acharya write to his father before going into battle?
Show answer
He wrote that he wasn't afraid or scared about losing his life while trying to protect the motherland. Quoting the Shrimad Bhagavad Gita, he said that one who fights either attains the celestial abode or enjoys victory on earth — so one must be determined to fight.
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87. 15. How does Ananda view a war memorial, differently from some other people?
Show answer
Some people see a war memorial as just a monument, statue or edifice celebrating war heroes or victory. In Ananda's view, it is also an expression of deep gratitude for the supreme sacrifice made by brave soldiers defending the country's sovereignty and integrity.
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88. 16. What actions does Ananda intend to take after reading Soumya's letter?
Show answer
Ananda is seriously thinking of joining the Armed Forces to serve her motherland. She also wishes to visit the National War Memorial with her friends, has explored the 'National War Memorial and Museum' mobile app, and plans to create a collage capturing the lives and stories of inspiring people.
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89. 17. What did Ananda and her family see when they visited the Bougainvillea Garden in Chandigarh?
Show answer
They saw a lot of activity around the garden in Sector 3 — people offering flowers and prayers. Joining the group out of curiosity, they realised everyone was there to pay respect to the soldiers at the War Memorial located in the heart of the garden.
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90. 18. Who was Captain Anuj Nayyar, and what has his mother written?
Show answer
Captain Anuj Nayyar, MVC, was an Indian Army officer of the 17 Jat regiment, posthumously awarded the Maha Vir Chakra for exemplary valour during the Kargil War in 1999. His mother Meena Nayyar has written a memoir titled 'Tiger of Drass – Capt. Anuj Nayyar – 23 – Kargil Hero'.
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91. 19. What is 'philately', and how does Soumya's letter help Ananda's hobby?
Show answer
'Philately' is the act of collecting stamps. Ananda loves receiving Soumya's letters partly because their envelopes carry beautiful stamps; the latest stamp she received celebrates India's independence, a theme related to Soumya's letter.
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92. 20. Why do you think it is our duty to pay homage to our brave soldiers?
Show answer
Our freedom, peace and security exist only because soldiers have sacrificed — and continue to sacrifice — their lives for the country. Paying homage keeps their memory alive, expresses our gratitude, and reminds us to live lives worthy of their sacrifice.
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93. 1. What is the significance of the National War Memorial? Explain.
Show answer
The National War Memorial honours the soldiers who have made the supreme sacrifice for India from 1947 till date. Its 29,000 tablets carry more than 26,000 names of fallen soldiers so that we never forget the cost of freedom. Its eternal flame, the Amar Jawan Jyoti, symbolises the immortality of the spirit of the fallen, and its four Chakras represent immortality, bravery, sacrifice and protection. Spread over 40 acres near India Gate, it stands as the nation's collective tribute of gratitude and remembrance.
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94. 2. Lance Naik Albert Ekka is an example of selflessness, determination and exceptional courage. Elaborate.
Show answer
Ekka's citation from Gangasagar shows all three qualities. His selflessness shines in his "complete disregard to his personal safety" when he charged the bunker that was inflicting heavy casualties on his company. His determination is evident when, though seriously wounded, he kept fighting through the mile-deep objective, clearing bunker after bunker, and crawled forward once more to silence the Medium Machine Gun. His exceptional courage appeared in the final act — scaling a side wall and entering the bunker to bayonet the enemy who was still firing. He saved his company and ensured the success of the attack, making the supreme sacrifice in the best traditions of the Army.
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95. 3. Describe the four Chakras of the National War Memorial and what each represents.
Show answer
The four Chakras are concentric circles around the 15-metre-tall central obelisk. The innermost Amar Chakra, the 'Circle of Immortality', holds the Obelisk with the Eternal Flame, symbolising the immortality of the fallen soldiers' spirit. The Veerta Chakra, the 'Circle of Bravery', has a covered gallery exhibiting six bronze murals of valiant battle actions. The Tyag Chakra, the 'Circle of Sacrifice', has concentric walls of honour symbolising the ancient Chakravyuh formation, covered with granite tablets, each dedicated to one fallen hero, with names etched in golden letters. The outermost Raksha Chakra, the 'Circle of Protection', has a row of trees assuring citizens of their safety, each tree representing the soldiers who guard the nation's territorial integrity.
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96. 4. The visit to the memorial brought tears to Soumya's eyes, yet she calls it inspiring. Explain both feelings.
Show answer
The tears came from sadness — the day's discourses made her think of "the massive devastation and loss of life caused by wars", the real human cost behind each of the 26,000 names. Yet the same visit was an emotive, visually inspiring experience: the majestic site, the solemn ambience of Kartavyapath, and the stories of heroes like Albert Ekka filled her with pride and a bond with the place. The two feelings together deepened the effect — she resolved to "live a life worthy of the sacrifices of our heroes".
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97. 5. What did Meena Nayyar say in her interview about writing about her son? What does it reveal about her?
Show answer
She said, "Writing about the smallest things about your child who is not with you really used to shake me, but gradually I came to terms with it by telling myself that if I didn't write about him no one would know about Anuj's sacrifice." It reveals her deep grief as a mother, her courage in facing painful memories, and her sense of duty — she transformed her personal loss into a memoir so that the nation would remember her son's sacrifice.
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98. 6. How will the 'National War Memorial and Museum' mobile app help in spreading awareness about war heroes?
Show answer
Ananda found the app very interactive — it provides answers to users' queries in 21 languages. This means people across India, speaking different tongues, can learn about the memorial and the soldiers it commemorates from anywhere. Together with the enchanting murals on the walls, which the app showcases, such technology brings the stories of war heroes to students and citizens who cannot visit Delhi, spreading awareness widely.
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99. 7. Why is it our duty to periodically visit places like the National War Memorial?
Show answer
As Ananda says, such visits honour our valiant soldiers who made great sacrifices for us. Their sacrifices enable us to walk freely in our country without fear of enemy threats, so remembering them is the least a citizen can offer. Visits also educate each generation about the cost of freedom — the 29,000 tablets and 26,000 names make history tangible — and inspire values like gratitude, patriotism and, as both girls felt, even the desire to serve the nation.
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100. 8. What is the main idea of this text? How does it justify its title, 'A Homage to Our Brave Soldiers'?
Show answer
The main idea is that the freedom and peace we enjoy were purchased by soldiers' sacrifices, and we must remember and honour them. The letters perform that very homage: Soumya's letter records every detail of the National War Memorial — its tablets, flame and Chakras — along with the stories of Somnath Sharma, Albert Ekka and Padmapani Acharya; Ananda's reply adds gratitude, a resolve to serve, and the story of Anuj Nayyar. Every page is an act of respect and remembrance — a true homage to the brave soldiers, justifying the title.
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101. 9. How do the two letters show gratitude being turned into action?
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Soumya's gratitude becomes action when her class plans presentations on stories of valour in five groups and shares its experience at the school assembly — Soumya herself presenting Major Acharya's story, so the whole school learns about the memorial. Ananda's gratitude becomes action in her resolve to join the Armed Forces, her wish to visit the memorial, exploring the memorial app, and her plan to create a collage capturing the lives of inspiring people. Both friends show that true gratitude does not remain a feeling; it inspires service and sharing.
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102. 10. What values do Soumya and Ananda embody? Support your answer from the text.
Show answer
Soumya embodies curiosity and sensitivity — she asks who the brave soldiers were, has "an eye for detail", and captures the essence of the memorial's emotions. She shows patriotism in her aspiration to join the Army and be courageous like Albert Ekka. Ananda embodies gratitude and thoughtfulness — she sees the memorial as an expression of deep gratitude, feels it her duty to visit such places, and plans to create an inspiring collage. Both value friendship and sharing, and both turn remembrance into action, showing maturity beyond their years.
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103. 1. Draw a character sketch of Soumya based on the text.
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Soumya, the young letter-writer from Bengaluru, is a curious and thoughtful student. Even before her trip, she wondered about the soldiers who protected India — their names, their homes, and whether anyone remembers them — showing a reflective mind that questions and seeks answers. She is observant and sensitive: as Ananda notes, she has "an eye for detail" and, being a sensitive person, captured "the essence of the emotions associated with this memorial". She is deeply patriotic — the stories of Albert Ekka and Padmapani Acharya touch her heart, motivate her, and awaken the aspiration to join the Army and be courageous like Ekka. She is moved to tears by the devastation of war, yet channels that sadness into a resolve to live "a life worthy of the sacrifices of our heroes". She is also a natural sharer: she writes a long letter because she "could not help sharing this inspiring experience", plans a school-assembly presentation, and thinks of her friend's happiness in it. Warm and playful touches — missing Ananda's mother's chhole bhature, calling herself a foodie, saying hello to Amit — complete the picture of a lively, affectionate friend. Curious, sensitive, patriotic and warm — that is Soumya.
5 marks · broad
104. 2. Draw a character sketch of Major Padmapani Acharya based on his citation in the text.
Show answer
Major Padmapani Acharya of 2 Rajputana Rifles emerges from his citation as an ideal soldier-hero. He is fearless: on 28 June 1999, he accepted the "formidable task" of capturing a heavily fortified enemy position covered with mines and sweeping machine gun and artillery fire. He is an inspiring leader: when the attack almost faltered and his men were falling to murderous enemy fire, he took the reserve platoon and led it through "raining artillery shells", encouraging his men as he charged up the steep rock face. He is relentlessly determined: unmindful of the hail of bullets, he crawled up to the enemy position and lobbed grenades. Most moving of all is his self-sacrifice — severely injured and unable to move, he ordered his men to leave him and charge at the enemy while he continued firing, until the position was over-run and the objective captured. He then succumbed to his injuries. His letter to his father, quoting the Bhagavad Gita, shows that this courage was not blind but rooted in calm faith — he was not afraid of losing his life while protecting the motherland. For his exceptional courage, leadership and self-sacrifice, he was awarded the Maha Vir Chakra posthumously.
5 marks · broad
105. 3. What is the central theme of 'A Homage to Our Brave Soldiers'? What message does the chapter convey?
Show answer
The central theme of the chapter is gratitude and remembrance — the recognition that India's freedom, peace and security rest on the sacrifices of generations of brave soldiers, and that the nation must never forget its debt to them. The two letters build this theme from both sides. Soumya's letter is an act of witnessing: she records the National War Memorial in loving detail — the 29,000 tablets with more than 26,000 names, the eternal Amar Jawan Jyoti, the four Chakras of immortality, bravery, sacrifice and protection — and the stories of heroes from Major Somnath Sharma to Albert Ekka and Padmapani Acharya. Ananda's letter is an act of response: she sees the memorial as an expression of deep gratitude, resolves to join the Armed Forces, and remembers Anuj Nayyar and his mother's memoir. The message is clear: freedom has a cost, paid by brave men and women; remembering them is our duty; and true homage lies not in words alone but in living "a life worthy of the sacrifices of our heroes" — perhaps even in serving the nation ourselves.
5 marks · broad
106. 4. What values do you learn from this chapter? Support your answer with evidence from the text.
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The chapter teaches several enduring values. First, gratitude: Ananda insists a war memorial is "an expression of deep gratitude", and both girls practise it — through visits, flowers and remembrance. Second, courage and self-sacrifice: Albert Ekka silenced enemy guns "with complete disregard to his personal safety", and Major Acharya, gravely wounded, ordered his men to leave him and charge on while he kept firing. Third, duty: Major Acharya's letter to his father, quoting the Bhagavad Gita, shows that he saw fighting for the motherland as his duty, not something to fear. Fourth, patriotism in daily life: Soumya resolves to live "a life worthy of the sacrifices of our heroes" and aspires to join the Army, while Ananda plans to create a collage of inspiring lives. Fifth, perseverance of memory: Meena Nayyar bravely wrote her son's memoir because "if I didn't write about him no one would know about Anuj's sacrifice". Finally, the value of sharing what we learn — Soumya's class turns gratitude into school-wide presentations. Together, these values teach students gratitude, bravery, duty and thoughtful citizenship.
5 marks · broad
107. 5. How can we, as students, apply the message of this chapter in our real lives?
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The chapter's message — remember the soldiers and live worthily of their sacrifice — can be applied in many practical ways. We can visit the National War Memorial or local war memorials, as Ananda's family did at Chandigarh's Bougainvillea Garden, and offer our respect. We can use resources like the 'National War Memorial and Museum' app, which answers queries in 21 languages, to learn and then share soldiers' stories, just as Soumya's class planned presentations for the school assembly. We can read and discuss memoirs like Meena Nayyar's 'Tiger of Drass' so that sacrifices are never forgotten. In daily life, we can honour the soldiers' gift of freedom by being disciplined, honest and hardworking students — living "a life worthy of the sacrifices of our heroes". We can also care for the environment of remembrance — observing silence on days of national mourning, celebrating Armed Forces Flag Day, and thanking soldiers we meet. Some of us may even be inspired, like Soumya and Ananda, to serve the nation in the Armed Forces. Every such act converts homage from words into action.
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108. 6. (Imaginative) Imagine you visited the National War Memorial on a school trip like Soumya. Write a short letter to a friend describing your experience and feelings.
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Dear Rhea, I simply must tell you about yesterday — our school trip to the National War Memorial in New Delhi. Spread over 40 acres near India Gate, it left me speechless. Our teacher explained how each of the 29,000 tablets bears the names of soldiers who made the supreme sacrifice from 1947 till date — more than 26,000 names, Rhea! I read the names on the granite tablets of the Tyag Chakra, etched in golden letters, and something inside me went very quiet. Then we stood before the Amar Jawan Jyoti, that immortal flame burning day and night, and I understood what Soumya meant by a metaphor for "eternal stories of courage and valour". Our teacher read out Lance Naik Albert Ekka's citation — how, seriously wounded, he cleared bunker after bunker at Gangasagar until he silenced the last gun — and honestly, my eyes filled with tears. It is sad to think of the devastation of war, but I came away proud and determined to live worthy of such heroes. Our class is now preparing presentations on the bravehearts for the school assembly. I wish you had been with me. Do visit it someday — and write back soon! With love, Meera.
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109. 7. (Creative) Imagine you are Soumya, about to give your school assembly presentation on Major Padmapani Acharya. Write the opening of your speech.
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"Respected teachers and dear friends, good morning. Today I want to tell you about a soldier who taught me what courage truly means. On 28 June 1999, in the Kargil War, Major Padmapani Acharya was given a formidable task — to capture an enemy position that was heavily fortified, strongly held, and covered with mines and sweeping machine gun and artillery fire. When the attack almost faltered and his men began falling to murderous enemy fire, this Company Commander took the reserve platoon and led it himself, charging up the steep rock face through raining artillery shells, encouraging his men with every step. Severely injured, unable even to move, he ordered his men to leave him and continue the charge — while he kept firing at the enemy. The position was captured; the mission was completed; and this brave son of India succumbed to his injuries, earning the Maha Vir Chakra. Before going into battle, he had written to his father that he was not afraid of losing his life while protecting the motherland, quoting the Bhagavad Gita: 'Be determined to fight.' Friends, what should we — who sleep in peace because of such soldiers — be determined to do? Let us find out together."
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