The Indo-Pak War (1965)

The Indo-Pak War (1965)

Less than three years after the Sino-Indian War, India once again found itself defending its borders—this time against Pakistan. In August 1965, Pakistan launched Operation Gibraltar, sending thousands of infiltrators into Jammu & Kashmir in an attempt to incite rebellion and seize the region. When the plan failed, the conflict quickly escalated into a full-scale war across the western front.

The Indo-Pak War (1965)

Indian forces responded with determination, opening new fronts in Punjab and Rajasthan while fiercely defending Kashmir. The war witnessed some of the largest tank battles since the Second World War and showcased the courage, professionalism, and resilience of the Indian Armed Forces.

Although both nations accepted a United Nations-sponsored ceasefire on 23 September 1965, India successfully thwarted Pakistan's objectives. The conflict produced remarkable stories of courage, including two soldiers whose actions earned them the Param Vir Chakra, India's highest wartime gallantry award.

Param Vir Chakra Recipients of the Indo-Pak War (1965)

• Lieutenant Colonel Ardeshir Burzorji Tarapore (Posthumous)
• Company Quartermaster Havildar Abdul Hamid (Posthumous)

1. Lieutenant Colonel Ardeshir Burzorji Tarapore (Posthumous)

Unit: 17 Poona Horse

Battle: Battle of Phillora–Chawinda, 11–16 September 1965

Lieutenant Colonel Tarapore commanded the famous 17 Poona Horse during India's offensive in the Sialkot sector. Facing heavily defended Pakistani armoured formations equipped with Patton tanks, he led his regiment from the front.

Despite his own tank being repeatedly hit, he refused evacuation and continued directing operations. Under his leadership, the regiment destroyed dozens of enemy tanks while capturing key objectives at Phillora, Wazirwali, and Jassoran.

On 16 September 1965, while leading another assault, Lieutenant Colonel Tarapore was fatally wounded. His leadership proved decisive in one of the largest tank battles fought after the Second World War.

Why he received the Param Vir Chakra:
For exceptional leadership, outstanding courage, and devotion to duty while leading repeated armoured assaults despite severe injuries, resulting in the destruction of numerous enemy tanks and the capture of important objectives.

2. Company Quartermaster Havildar Abdul Hamid (Posthumous)

Unit: 4 Grenadiers

Battle: Battle of Asal Uttar, 8–10 September 1965

Company Quartermaster Havildar Abdul Hamid commanded a recoilless gun mounted on a jeep during the Battle of Asal Uttar. Facing Pakistan's advanced American-built Patton tanks, he repeatedly shifted positions to avoid detection before opening fire.

Displaying remarkable skill and courage, he destroyed several enemy tanks one after another, severely disrupting Pakistan's armoured advance. His accurate fire played a major role in turning the battle in India's favour.

While engaging another enemy tank, his position came under heavy fire. He continued fighting until he was mortally wounded, making the supreme sacrifice in the line of duty.

Why he received the Param Vir Chakra:
For extraordinary courage, battlefield initiative, and supreme devotion to duty in destroying multiple enemy tanks under intense enemy fire during the Battle of Asal Uttar.

Legacy of the 1965 Heroes

The Indo-Pak War of 1965 demonstrated the courage and professionalism of the Indian Armed Forces on land, in the air, and at sea. Lieutenant Colonel Tarapore and Company Quartermaster Havildar Abdul Hamid became symbols of fearless leadership and unwavering determination.

Their actions continue to inspire generations of soldiers, proving that victory is achieved not only through superior equipment but also through courage, leadership, and an unbreakable commitment to the nation.

Next Post: The Indo-Pak War (1971): Four Heroes Who Helped Shape the Birth of Bangladesh