Surprising Facts About the Indian Army: From Professionalism to Sacrifice
The Indian Army is a land-based branch and the largest component of the Indian Armed Forces. Founded in 1949 with the appointment of Gen. KM Cariappa as the first Indian commander-in-chief, it has a rich history of service and sacrifice.
Key Figures and Honors
Gen. KM Cariappa
On January 1949, Gen. KM Cariappa became the first Indian commander-in-chief of the Indian Army, marking a significant milestone in the organization's history.
Naik Darwan Singh
Naik Darwan Singh, later a Subedar of the Garhwal Rifles, became the first Indian to win the Victoria Cross during the First World War in 1914. This prestigious honor recognizes extraordinary gallantry in the face of the enemy.
Major Somnath Sharma
Major Somnath Sharma was posthumously awarded the Param Vir Chakra for his valour during the 1947 Indo-Pak war. This medal is the highest military honor in India, signifying unparalleled bravery.
Captain Gurbachan Singh Salaria
Captain Gurbachan Singh Salaria received the Param Vir Chakra posthumously for his heroism during the 1961 United Nations Peace Keeping Mission in Congo.
Naik V Raju
Naik V Raju became the first Indian soldier to win the Mahavir Chakra during Operation Polo, which was part of the liberation of Hyderabad in 1950. This medal is awarded for distinguished and conspicuous bravery in action against the enemy, or in connection with operations for the maintenance of law and order.
Colonel Chewan Rinchen
Colonel Chewan Rinchen, the first Indian Army officer to win the Mahavir Chakra twice, achieved this feat during both the 1947 Indo-Pak war and the 1971 Indo-Pak war. This demonstrates his exceptional bravery and dedication to his duties.
International Recognition and Dignity
The Indian Army's commitment to professionalism is exemplified by its actions during the Kargil War. One such notable incident involves Captain Karnal Sher Khan, a Pakistani Army captain who attained martyrdom in the Kargil War.
Captain Karnal Sher Khan
During the Kargil War, Captain Sher Khan fought with ferocity and was posthumously awarded the Nishan-e-Haider by the Pakistan Army. Interestingly, he was recognized by the Indian Army as well, who documented his bravery in a citation. This act of recognizing and honoring an enemy's bravery is something that very few organizations can claim.
The citation from the Indian Army highlighted Captain Sher Khan's bravery and the numerous casualties on both sides. While the Pakistani Army refused to accept the bodies of the martyrs, the Indian Army took the ethically high road. They buried the dead with full honour, not just as a gesture of respect but also as a testament to their professionalism and respect for the spirit of service and sacrifice.
Even more remarkable was the fact that while the Pakistani Army was torturing and mutilating the bodies of Indian soldiers, the Indian Army burying the dead soldiers and recognizing their bravery speaks volumes about their values. This highlights the Indian Army's unwavering commitment to maintaining dignity even in the face of enmity.
Patriotic Pride and Recognition
The Indian Army's dedicated and secular nature, along with its professionalism, is a source of immense pride for all Indians. Service families and the 'faushi' (military culture) are also integral to the Army's operations, ensuring that it remains a fully functioning and dependable force.
Conclusion
What we say about the Indian Army is indeed less, but the best line to encapsulate it is: Indian Army - No Better Friend, No Worse Enemy. This sentiment reflects the Army's unwavering commitment to peace and justice, even when faced with the most challenging circumstances.
Let us respect and recognize the selfless service of the Indian Army and the invaluable contribution of its service families. Helping each other is what makes them so special.
Thank you for reading, and let's salute the brave souls who serve our nation.
Footnote:
Karnal Sher Khan - Wikipedia, Google Groups, India Buries Soldiers That Pakistan Won't Claim
Photo Credits: Google/Website