“A soldier’s duty is not only to defend the nation but also to defend its values, its honor, and its sovereignty.”
Field Marshal K. M. Cariappa
Shaurya Diwas, also known as Valour Day, is a special day in the history of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF). This day is observed every year to commemorate the courage, sacrifice, and valiant efforts of the CRPF personnel during the Battle of Sardar Post, in which a small contingent of the 2nd Battalion, CRPF commanded by Major Sardar Karnail Singh displayed extraordinary valour by repelling three attacks by the Pakistan Army in April 1965.
Comparable military engagements
The Battle of Sardar Post is often compared to following military engagements in which a small contingent of motivated fighters stood firm and eventaually defeated much larger and well equipped enemy forces. These include:
Battle of Asal Uttar (1965)
Indian forces reversed the course of history by making mince-meat of an entire Pakistani armoured division near the village of Asal Uttar, near Khemkaran in Indian Punjab in 1965. It is recognized as one of the largest tank confrontations since World War II. What was left behind was a graveyard of damaged and useless Pakistani Paton tanks. CQHM Abdul Hamid of the 4th Battalion of the Grenadiers was posthumously awarded the Param Vir Chakra for his extraordinary bravery – destroying at least seven enemy tanks before being mortally wounded.
Battle of Saragarhi (1897)
On September 12, 1897, 21 soldiers of the 36th Sikh Regiment defended the Saragarhi post against about 10,000 Afghan tribesmen. Despite being vastly outnumbered, the Sikhs held their position for several hours, showcasing remarkable courage and determination.
Battle of Longewala (1971)
A small contingent of Indian soldiers successfully defended against a much larger Pakistani force, including tanks at Longewala post in Rajasthan during the 1971 war. The defence was bolstered by the timely intervention of the Indian Air Force, leading to a significant victory.
Siege of Anandpur Sahib (1705)
Guru Gobind Singh and his 10,000 Sikh soldiers despite severe hardships endured an eight-month siege at Anandpur Sahib against a combined force of one million Mughal and hill chief armies in 1705.
Battle of Chamkaur (1705)
On December 6, 1705, a mere 43 Sikhs, including Guru Gobind Singh Ji’s two sons, fought valiantly, against an overwhelmingly larger Mughal force. Only three of them survived in the battle. Even the Mughal historians praised their valour
Historic significance of the Battle of Sardar Post
The battle of Sardar Post, fought on the night of April 9, 1965, holds immense historical and symbolic significance in Indian military and police history. Here’s why:
- It took place during a period of heightened tension months before the official outbreak of the Indo-Pak War of 1965 in the Rann of Kutch Gujarat — a remote and inhospitable terrain.
- The successful defense of the post prevented further incursions into the Rann of Kutch
- Just four companies of the 2nd Battalion CRPF (nearly 150) men firmly defended the post against 3500 heavily armed Pakistani military formation, supported by artillery.
- The entire incident was a morale booster for Indian forces in the 1965 war
- The CRPF jawans held the post for over 12 hours and repulsed several attacks till the Indian Army arrived and Pakistani troops had to ran away – leaving their dead and wounded soldiers behind.
- It was the first time where a police/paramilitary force (CRPF) forced a numerically superior regular Pakistani army to withdraw
- It demonstrated the courage, discipline, and motivation the CRPF personnel performing their duty
- 6 CRPF jawans laid down their lives during the battle. Their bravery is commemorated as a benchmark of gallantry in Indian security forces
The Battle of Sardar Post during the Indo-Pak War of 1965 was one of the most courageous and intense fights in the history of the CRPF which is traditionally tasked with internal security and law enforcement. But a small contingent of CRPF personnel for the first time deployed for defensive operations on Sardar Post, along the India-Pakistan border in the Rann of Kutch – a harsh and inhospitable desert region, characterized by salt marshes and dry terrain.
The Sardar Post was strategically important for the Pakistan Army which wanted strengthen its position in the region by capturing the Sardar post and adjoining areas. The CRPF personnel showed remarkable courage in defending the post and fought valiantly to hold ground – last man last round.
Battle of Sardar Post – what really happened
Late in the night on April 9, 1965, around 0330 hours the Pakistani Army launched a surprise attack on Sardar and Tak Posts manned by CRPF battalions in the Rann of Kutch area near Gujarat, adjacent to Pakistan’s Sindh province as a part of Operation Desert Hawk.
In the early 1960s, tensions between India and Pakistan were high. Territorial disputes along the international border were quite frequent, especially related to the Kashmir issue. The Rann of Kutch, though not strategically vital at the time, became the focal point of military action when the two countries clashed over the ownership of this region. In 1965, a brief but intense conflict known as the Rann of Kutch skirmish occurred between the Indian and Pakistani forces. Both India and Pakistan had conflicting claims over the Rann of Kutch. This often led to tensions and clashes between the two countries which finally led to a full-scale war.
Though the larger war between India and Pakistan would break out later that year in September, the battle at Sardar Post was a precursor to the escalation. Pakistan had already mobilized its forces along the western front, and the small Indian contingent at Sardar Post found themselves at the mercy of the much larger Pakistani military.
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The Pakistani military numbering around 3,500 men including the elite 18 Punjab Battalion, 8 Frontier Rifles, and 6 Baluch Battalion armed with artillery, heavy machine guns, mortars, and tanks. Their mission was clear to capture as much Indian Territory as possible. In contrast, the defending force—two companies of the Second Battalion of CRPF—numbered only about 150 men primarily armed with rifles, light machine guns, and mortars.
Even the terrain was not favourable for the defenders as there was no cover in the flat, salty expanse of the Rann of Kutch. The acute weather conditions also added to the difficulties faced by the Indian soldiers.
In the words of the official Indian war historian:
“For India, the Kutch Operation was a wrong war with the right enemy, at a wrong place. For Pakistan, it was a victorious war, out of which it learnt a wrong lesson that it could win a cake-walk victory in Kashmir.”
The Pakistan Army was convinced that this was going to be an easy victory for them considering the fact that there were only two CRPF battalions defending the Sardar and Tak area which stood no chances against the much larger, better equipped and motivated Pakistan force supported by Artillery.
This led to an intense battles with heavy artillery fire, hand-to-hand combat, machine guns and other military-grade weapons. The attacks lasted overnight and continued into the early morning hours. The Pakistan Army was fully prepared and had the element of surprise on their side but the CRPF personnel led by Sub-Inspector Khurshid Ahmad didnt give up and fought avliently to defend the post – whatever be the price.
As the battle progressed, the Pakistani forces attempted to break through three times using heavy artillery bombardments, mortars, and tanks. But the CRPF jawans held their ground with remarkable skill and bravery using the limited resources at their disposal.
After twelve hours of continuous fighting, the Pakistani attackers realized that they were facing unexpected resistance and stood no chance against the well-coordinated defence and decided to retreat, leaving behind their dead and wounded.
Despite being outnumbered, the only two companies of CRPF fought valiantly against the Pakistani Army. The battle resulted in the deaths of six CRPF personnel. On the other hand 34 Pakistani soldiers (including two officers) were killed, and four soldiers including one officer were captured alive.
Despite limited resources and ammunition the CRPF soldiers faced overwhelming odds and kept the enemy at bay. CRPF’s spirited fight back ensured that the Pakistani troops could not set foot in the Sardar post area till the Indian Army arrived the next morning.
Many CRPF personnel paid the price for their glorious deed with their own blood. It was not their kind of battle. They were not equipped or trained to fight such a conflict with their world war vintage .303s but the brave CRPF jawans did not budge – even an inch. The result is there for everyone to see. The Pakistani army could not withstand the combined fight by the CRPF and the Army and had to vacate the area. The battle ended with India consolidating the defences and retaining firm control over the Sardar Post.
CRPF personnel taken prisoners of War
During the Battle of Sardar Post, about 19 CRPF personnel were taken prisoners of war by the Pakistani Army. The capture of Indian soldiers, especially those from the CRPF, became a point of concern, as these personnel were not regular army soldiers but part of a paramilitary force tasked with internal security. Their bravery in holding the post against superior forces became a symbol of resilience and valour, and the capture by the Pakistan Army added to the emotional and strategic stakes of the battle.
After the battle and the end of active hostilities, Pakistan eventually released the 19 CRPF personnel as a part of the broader exchange of prisoners following the 1965 Indo-Pak War.
The release of these POWs and return of the brave soldiers was a significant event. Upon their return, the CRPF soldiers were complimented for their courage and resilience during the captivity and steadfast defence of the post in the Battle of Sardar Post.
The aftermath and recognition
The Battle of Sardar Post remains an exemplary display of bravery. The actions of the CRPF personnel at Sardar Post symbolises the force’s professionalism, courage, and dedication to duty.
In recognition of their heroism, the personnel involved in the battle were honoured with various military awards, and the day April 9 is observed as Shaurya Diwas (Valour Day) by the CRPF.
According to the history of the 2nd Battalion of CRPF list of martyrs who gave up their lives fighting the nation include NK Kishor Singh, Ct Samsher Singh, Ct Gian Singh, Ct Huddu Ram, Ct Sidhveer Pradhan and Ct Kishan Singh.
Gulzari Lal Nanda’s role as Home Minister
Gulzari Lal Nanda as Home Minister during the Indo-Pak War of 1965 played a crucial role in shaping the country’s internal security policies. His leadership and decisions helped ensure that the country’s border posts, including Sardar Post in the Rann of Kutch, were defended with great valor, even under challenging conditions. The Battle of Sardar Post stands as a testament to the courage of the CRPF, and Nanda’s contributions to strengthening India’s internal security framework were pivotal in this success.
While giving away the gallantary awards to the heroes of second battalion the then Home Minister, Gulzari Lal Nanda said:
“This battle will go dodwn in the history of Indian police, nay in the history of military battle.
This is the glorious history of unparalleld bravery, undaunting courage and magnificent achievement of a small contingent of valiant CRPF men gighting against 3500 heavily armed enemy at Sardar post
Legacy of the Battle of Sardar Post
The bravery and devotion to duty displayed by the CRPF personnel during the Battle of Sardar Post battle exemplifies the selflessness and dedication to the nation. The legacy of the battle continues to inspire current and future generations of the CRPF and other armed forces, serving as a symbol of unwavering commitment and courage in the face of adversity.
Even today the CRPF celebrates Shaurya Diwas to salute the brave and valiant soldier who fought with unmatched valour and gave up their life defending the nation. It is a day to remember that the values of bravery, discipline, and patriotism are still to be found in the CRPF personnel serving the force as goodwill ambassadors in different parts of the country.
Shaurya Diwas serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by these brave soldiers and the role of the CRPF in maintaining national security.
Second Battalion – the Pride of CRPF
The credit for exemplary action in the Battle of Sardar Post during the Indo-Pak War of 1965 in the Rann of Kutch area rightfully goes to the 2nd Battalion of CRPF. The 2nd Battalionplayed a significant role in defending strategic posts like Sardar Post from Pakistani forces. The battalion’s determination to hold ground against a numerically superior enemy demonstrated its courage and commitment to India’s territorial integrity.
The 2nd Battalion of CRPF today operates as a specialized unit, with highly trained personnel capable of undertaking complex operations. Like all CRPF battalions, the 2nd Battalion is trained and ready to take part in counter-insurgency, jungle warfare, riot control, and disaster management tasks. Its highly trained and motivated personnel are capable of accepting the toughest of challenges in active operations, in counter-terrorism zones, riot-prone areas, or disaster-hit regions.
In contemporary times, the 2nd Battalion of CRPF continues to adapt to the changing security landscape of India. It has been modernized with better equipment, including anti-riot gear, light and heavy weapons, communication systems, and protective gear for various types of operations, from counter-terrorism to maintaining public order during sensitive events.
The 2nd Battalion of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) remains one of the crucial units in India’s internal security framework. Its personnel have shown extraordinary bravery and dedication in various challenging and high-risk operations, including significant historical events like the Battle of Sardar Post in the Indo-Pak War of 1965. Whether in counter-insurgency, anti-terrorism, law enforcement, or disaster response, the 2nd Battalion has consistently proven itself as an essential element of India’s paramilitary force, contributing to the safety and security of the nation.
Present day significance of Shaurya Diwas
Shaurya Diwas serves as a reminder of the bravery and sacrifice of CRPF personnel, who have been instrumental in maintaining internal security and protecting the nation’s sovereignty. The day is observed to:
- Honor the Martyrs: Pay tribute to the CRPF personnel who lost their lives in the line of duty.
- Recognize Valor: Acknowledgë the bravery of CRPF personnel in the face of adversity.
- Promote National Pride: Foster a sense of patriotism among citizens.
“CRPF has a glorious history starting from its raising on 27th July 1939 as a Crown Representative Police. On 21st October 1959 , its patrol party was ambushed by the Chinese army and 10 CRPF jawans gave supreme sacrifice. Since then, every year, 21st October is celebrated as Police Commemoration day.The incident of 9th April 1965 in Rann of Kutch where one CRPF platoon repulsed the Pakistani brigade attack at sardar post is celebrated as Valour day every year,” H R Singh, former Additional Director General (ADG) – the highest rank a CRPF cadre officer can ever dream to reach told Taazakhabar News.
“There are innumerous incidents of CRPF’s valour, courage and sacrifice while dealing with counter insurgency in the North East,terrorism in Punjab & the Jammu & Kashmir and naxalism in the naxal affected states.CRPF has the distinction of earning record number of gallantry medals consecutively for many years. Its officers have led the troops from the front and have given their lives while dealing with the enemy’s threat.Its men & officers have been awarded Ashok chakra, Shourya Chakra & Kirti Chakra besides Police medal for gallantry and the President’s Police Medal of Gallantry in recognition of their valour and conspicuous courage while facing imminent threat to their lives.I feel pride to be a veteran of such a versatile and valiant force. Iss force ki gaurav gathyen anant hai jin par desh ko naaj hai aur ye sabhi forces aur yuvaon ke liye prerna dayak hain,” H R Singh who is also President Alliance of All Ex-Para-Military Forces Welfare Association added.
According to K K Sharma, IG COBRA Force, “Every year on 9th April, Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) celebrates Shaurya Diwas – in the memory of the unparalleled bravery. CRPF soldiers created history by defeating the enemy’s large army at Sardar Post in 1965. This sacrifice of CRPF still fills the countrymen with pride,” he said.
“In true sense – from “Crown Representative Police, this force has become the crown of all forces.” CRPF remains constantly active and provides stability to the nation, no matter what the challenge is – terrorism, Naxalism or any internal security crisis. CRPF is not only the sentinel of security, but also the true protector of India’s unity and integrity. Valour, loyalty and sacrifice – this is the identity of CRPF,” he added.
Conclusion
The Battle of Sardar Post was a historic and pivotal moment in the history of CRPF. Sardar Post, located in the heart of the Rann of Kutch, is not just a historical site but a symbol of the bravery and resilience of the forces that defended it. The sacrifices made during the battle are forever etched in the hearts of the nation, and Shaurya Diwas stands as a tribute to the brave souls who fought for the country.
Valour Day remains a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by the six brave CRPF soldiers who gave their lives that fateful day, as well as the courage of their comrades who stood firm, turning the tide of battle. Their bravery and heroism continue to inspire generations of Indians who cherish their freedom, sovereignty, and the heroes who defend it. The legacy of this battle will continue to inspire generations to come.
