NCERT Solutions For Class 8 English Chapter 4 A Tale Of Valour
NCERT Solutions for CBSE Class 8 English Chapter 4 – "A Tale of Valour: Major Somnath Sharma and the Battle of Badgam" tells the inspiring story of one of India's bravest soldiers. During the Battle of Badgam in 1947, Major Somnath Sharma and his outnumbered company fought fearlessly to protect Srinagar and Kashmir. Despite his injuries, he refused to retreat and made the supreme sacrifice for his nation, becoming the first recipient of the Param Vir Chakra.
Prepared according to the latest CBSE Class 8 English syllabus 2025-26, these solutions cover all important questions from the chapter — comprehension, character-based, theme, and value-based questions — written in simple, clear language to help students score well in school exams.
Important Questions & Answers
Q1. Who was Major Somnath Sharma, and why is he remembered?
Major Somnath Sharma was a brave officer of the Indian Army who fought in the Battle of Badgam in 1947 to protect Srinagar and Kashmir. He is remembered as the first recipient of the Param Vir Chakra, India's highest military honour, awarded for his outstanding bravery and supreme sacrifice. His courage and leadership continue to inspire soldiers and civilians alike.
Q2. What was Major Somnath Sharma's family background and early inspiration?
Major Somnath Sharma was born on 31 January 1923 in Dadh, a picturesque town in Kangra, Himachal Pradesh. He belonged to a family with a rich military legacy:
- His father, Major General Amar Nath Sharma, had served the nation with distinction
- As a child, he was deeply inspired by the valorous tales of the Mahabharata told by his grandfather
- His family and heritage shaped his bravery and strong sense of duty
Q3. Describe the conditions on the battlefield during the Battle of Badgam.
The battlefield was a scene of intense fighting. The air was thick with the sound of gunfire and the cries of battle. Major Somnath Sharma and his men were vastly outnumbered and faced devastating enemy fire. Despite heavy casualties and his own injuries, the major moved fearlessly through the chaos, directing fire, filling magazines for his gunners, and encouraging his men to hold their ground.
Q4. What were Major Somnath Sharma's last words, and what do they reveal about him?
His final words were: "The enemy is only 50 yards away. We are greatly outnumbered and under heavy fire. I will not retreat even an inch; I will fight till the last man and the last round." These words reveal his unwavering dedication to his mission and his readiness to give his life for the nation. They highlight his strong sense of duty, fearless courage, and true leadership.
Q5. Why was Major Somnath Sharma's leadership critical during the Battle of Badgam?
His leadership was crucial because he stayed calm under pressure and inspired confidence in his men. He encouraged his soldiers to fight boldly even when heavily outnumbered, and took important decisions such as calling for air strikes. His courage and presence helped his troops stand firm, giving reinforcements enough time to reach and protect Srinagar.
Q6. What might have happened if Major Somnath and his company had not held their ground?
If they had not stood their ground, the infiltrators could have captured the Srinagar airport and nearby regions. This might have led to Kashmir falling into Pakistan's hands in 1947, which would have drastically altered the course of India's history. Their stand protected a position of great strategic importance.
Q7. What is the significance of the repetition in the line 'forever alive, forever alive'?
The repeated phrase "forever alive" emphasises the lasting influence of Major Somnath's courage and devotion. It shows that his sacrifice is not just a past event but a timeless source of inspiration. The repetition gives the line emotional weight and reminds readers that his legacy will continue to live on for generations.
Q8. Why does Major Somnath's story continue to inspire people today?
His story inspires people because it stands for courage, patriotism, and selfless sacrifice. Even after being injured, he led from the front and chose to fight against impossible odds rather than retreat. His devotion to the nation serves as a powerful example — not only for soldiers who protect the country, but also for civilians who try to live by strong values in everyday life.
Q9. How can the values shown by Major Somnath Sharma be applied in our daily lives?
His values of courage, duty, and self-sacrifice teach us to face difficulties bravely, take responsibility for our actions, and think of others before ourselves. By helping those in need, standing up for what is right, and staying dedicated to our goals, we can honour his legacy through integrity, responsibility, and compassion.
Q10. What is the Param Vir Chakra, and what makes it special?
The Param Vir Chakra is India's highest military honour, awarded for the most outstanding act of bravery in the presence of the enemy. Its name means the "Wheel of the Ultimate Brave," and its design — inspired by the sage Dadhichi — features the state emblem surrounded by the Vajra and lotus flowers. Major Somnath Sharma was its very first recipient, which makes the award especially significant.
Q11. Contrast retreating from battle with Major Somnath's choice to hold his ground.
| Aspect | Retreating (the easy choice) | Major Somnath's choice |
|---|---|---|
| Action | Withdrawing to safety | Standing firm and fighting on |
| Motivation | Self-preservation | Duty to the nation |
| Effect on men | Would lower morale | Inspired courage and resolve |
| Outcome | Srinagar could have been lost | Bought time to save Srinagar |
The contrast highlights that true valour lies in choosing duty and sacrifice over personal safety — the very quality that defines Major Somnath Sharma.
Q12. Why is 'A Tale of Valour' an appropriate title for this chapter?
The title is appropriate because the chapter narrates a real story of extraordinary bravery. 'Valour' means great courage in the face of danger, and Major Somnath Sharma displayed exactly that — fighting fearlessly despite being outnumbered and injured, and laying down his life for his country. The title captures the heart of the chapter: a true and inspiring tale of heroism and sacrifice.
FAQs – A Tale of Valour: Major Somnath Sharma
Q1. What is the summary of 'A Tale of Valour: Major Somnath Sharma'?
The chapter tells the heroic story of Major Somnath Sharma during the Battle of Badgam (1947). Outnumbered and injured, he refused to retreat, inspired his men to fight on, and sacrificed his life to protect Srinagar — becoming India's first Param Vir Chakra awardee.
Q2. Who are the key figures in this chapter?
The central figure is Major Somnath Sharma. His father, Major General Amar Nath Sharma, and his grandfather (who told him Mahabharata tales) are mentioned as early influences, along with his brave D Company soldiers in the Battle of Badgam.
Q3. What values does the chapter teach students?
It teaches courage, patriotism, duty, and selfless sacrifice. It encourages students to face challenges bravely, take responsibility, and put the nation and others before themselves.
Q4. Which questions are likely to be asked in exams?
Common ones are Major Somnath's last words and their meaning, why his leadership was critical, the importance of the Battle of Badgam, the significance of "forever alive," and the meaning of the Param Vir Chakra.
Q5. What is the significance of the Battle of Badgam?
The battle was strategically vital because holding Badgam protected the Srinagar airport and gave reinforcements time to arrive. Had it been lost, Kashmir's fate in 1947 might have been very different.
Q6. Why is this chapter important for Class 8 students?
It builds character by highlighting real-life heroism and helps students learn to write structured, value-based answers — strengthening both their comprehension and their sense of patriotism.