2nd Lt Arun Khetarpal PVC

Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal was born on 14th October 1950 in Pune into a distinguished military family. His father, Lt Col (later Brigadier) M.L. Khetarpal, and mother, Smt Maheshwari Khetarpal, instilled in him a deep sense of discipline and patriotism. As the eldest of two sons, Arun Khetarpal was destined to follow the family’s proud military tradition. His lineage was steeped in military history: his great-grandfather had served in the Sikh army and fought against the British, while his grandfather had participated in World War I under the British Army. 2nd Lt Arun Khetarpal’s formative years were spent at the prestigious Lawrence School, Sanawar, nestled in the Kasauli hills of Himachal Pradesh. He excelled both academically and in extracurricular activities, distinguishing himself in sports and leadership roles. Recognized for his all-around abilities, he was appointed school prefect, a position of responsibility and honour. He lived by the school’s enduring motto, “Never Give In”, a philosophy that would become his guiding principle in the most critical moment of his life.

In June 1967, he joined the 38th Course of the National Defence Academy (NDA) at Khadakwasla (NDA No: 7498/F/38), where he was a part of Foxtrot Squadron. His leadership qualities shone through, and he earned the position of Squadron Cadet Captain. His journey continued at the Indian Military Academy (IMA), where he underwent rigorous training and was commissioned into the 17th Poona Horse regiment on 13th June 1971. Only six months into his service, the Indo-Pakistani War of 1971 erupted on 3rd December. At that time, 2nd Lt Arun Khetarpal was attending the Young Officers' Course in Ahmednagar. Duty called him to the front lines, and he swiftly rejoined his regiment, poised to take part in one of the most pivotal engagements of the war: the Battle of Basantar in the Shakargarh Sector.

Battle of Basantar (Indo-Pak War) : 15/16 Dec 1971

During the Indo-Pak War of 1971, the 17 Poona Horse regiment, a distinguished armoured unit of the Indian Army, played a pivotal role in the Battle of Basantar in the Shakargarh Sector. This strategically important battle required the brigade to establish a bridgehead across the River Basantar. The 17 Poona Horse, commanded by Lt Col Hanut Singh, was assigned to support the 47th Infantry Brigade functioning under the operational control of 54 Infantry Division of 1 Corps. The brigade plan involved two phases: 16 Madras capturing the Ghazipur Reserved Forest and 3 Grenadiers capturing Jarpal, followed by link-ups at Saraj Chak. Engineers were tasked with clearing a minefield after Phase 1, with the attack scheduled for 1930 hours on 15 December. Due to time constraints, planning relied solely on maps, with limited intelligence on enemy positions. However, terrain information from Captain Ravi Deol (B Squadron of 17 Poona Horse) and a reconnaissance report by Lieutenant BS Grewal (B Squadron of 17 Poona Horse) suggested the presence of enemy armour reserves in the Ghazipur Forest. Recognizing the strategic importance of this area, it was decided that securing the Ghazipur Forest was critical. The resulting Regimental battle plan included: C Squadron and 18 Rajputana Rifles to secure the Ghazipur Forest, potentially through a night assault; B Squadron to link up with 3 Grenadiers at Jarpal; and A Squadron to remain in reserve at Saraj Chak. 

On 15th December 1971, the brigade captured its objective, but the area was heavily mined by the enemy, hindering the deployment of tanks. Despite the challenges, the Indian engineers worked tirelessly to clear a path through the minefield. However, enemy activity intensified, prompting the Indian troops to accelerate their advance. At this critical juncture, the 17 Poona Horse, demonstrating sheer resolve and courage, decided to push through the partially cleared minefield. Among the brave troop commanders in the operation was 2nd Lt Arun Khetarpal of "A" Squadron. On 16th December 1971, the Pakistani Army launched a major counterattack under the cover of a smokescreen, targeting "B" Squadron of the 17 Poona Horse at Jarpal. The Indian position at Jarpal was held by two troops from B Squadron of the 17 Poona Horse regiment, supported by 3 Grenadiers. Under severe pressure from enemy armor, 2nd Lt Arun Khetarpal's troop and another led by Lt Ahlawat were ordered forward from Saraj Chak under the leadership of Captain V Malhotra, the second-in-command of their squadron. While advancing, they came under sudden attack from recoilless guns concealed in bunkers and groves along the flank. In response, Capt Malhotra and 2nd Lt Khetarpal launched a daring frontal assault, overran the enemy positions, and captured the gun crews at pistol-point. The prisoners were placed on their tanks as they resumed their advance. Upon nearing B Squadron's position, Capt Malhotra spotted enemy tanks retreating toward Barapind. Without hesitation, he and 2nd Lt Khetarpal pursued them, with 2nd Lt Khetarpal successfully destroying a Patton tank. They were subsequently ordered to return to B Squadron's position. Shortly after, a full enemy squadron approached, initiating a fierce battle.

In the ensuing clash, the three tanks led by Capt Malhotra played a decisive role in repelling the assault. Ten Pakistani tanks were destroyed, with 2nd Lt Khetarpal accounting for four of them. Amid the fierce fighting, Lt Ahlawat's tank was hit, and he was wounded and evacuated. Capt Malhotra’s own tank gun jammed, further intensifying the challenge. 2nd Lt Khetarpal commanded a tank named ‘Famagusta’, a tribute to the regiment’s service during World War II in Cyprus. His tank crew included Sowar Prayag Singh (driver), Sowar Nand Singh (radio operator), and Sowar Nathu Singh (gunner). Undaunted by the overwhelming enemy force, 2nd Lt Khetarpal took charge and continued his offensive, refusing to let the enemy advance. Even as Pakistani forces regrouped and counterattacked with renewed force, 2nd Lt Khetarpal fought valiantly, and remained resolute, embodying the ethos of the Indian Army.

In the midst of the fierce tank battle, 2nd Lt Arun Khetarpal’s tank was hit by enemy fire. However, he refused to abandon his position. His final words over the radio, when ordered to withdraw, were: “No Sir, I will not abandon my tank. My main gun is still working, and I will get these bastards.” In a final act of heroism, he destroyed an enemy tank just 100 metres away. At this moment, his tank was hit again, and a shell entered through the cupola, fatally injuring him. Despite his grievous wounds, 2nd Lt Khetarpal fought on until he breathed his last, ensuring that the enemy’s breakthrough attempt was thwarted. His brave comrades, including Sowar Nand Singh, were also mortally wounded, while Sowar Prayag Singh and Sowar Nathu Singh were severely injured and later captured by Pakistani forces. These men were treated for their injuries and eventually repatriated, retiring as honourary captains. During the entire operation, alongside 2nd Lt Arun Khetarpal, the 17 Poona Horse lost twelve courageous soldiers who displayed exceptional bravery and self-sacrifice. On 14th December 1971, three soldiers Daffadar Bhanwar Singh, ALD Achal Singh, and Sowar Labh Singh laid down their lives. On 16th December 1971, the martyred brave hearts included Naib Risaldar Sagat Singh, Lance Daffadar Pritam Singh, Sowar Lal Singh, Sowar Bhanwar Singh, Sowar Zile Singh, Sowar Nand Singh, and Sowar Tarlochan Singh. On 17th December 1971, two more soldiers Daffadar Durga Singh and Sowar RN Dhankhar succumbed to their injuries.

In this historic battle, 2nd Lt Arun Khetarpal stood out for his unparalleled bravery and leadership. Commanding his tank “Famagusta,” he refused to abandon his post even when his tank was severely damaged. His final act of heroism, which included destroying multiple enemy tanks despite being mortally wounded, became a testament to his valour and dedication. On 17th December 1971, his mortal remains and his tank were returned to the Indian Army. He was cremated near Samba district, and his ashes were sent to his family. For his indomitable spirit, exceptional courage, and supreme sacrifice at the age of just 21, 2nd Lt Arun Khetarpal was posthumously awarded the Param Vir Chakra, India’s highest gallantry award. His legacy continues to inspire generations, symbolizing the ideals of courage, honour, and sacrifice.

2nd Lt Arun Khetarpal is survived by his brother Shri Mukesh Khetarpal. 

The citation for the Param Vir Chakra awarded to him reads:

On 16 December 1971, the squadron Commander of ‘B’ Squadron, the Poona Horse asked for reinforcements as the Pakistani armour that was superior in strength, was counter-attacked at Jarpal, in the Shakargarh Sector. On hearing this transmission, 2nd Lt Khetarpal who was in ‘A’ Squadron, voluntarily moved along with his troop, to assist the other squadron. En route, while crossing the Basantar River, Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal and his troops came under fire from enemy strong points and RCL gun nests that were still holding out. Time was at a premium and as a critical situation was developing in the ‘B’ Squadron sector, Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal threw caution to the winds and started attacking the impending enemy strong points by literally charging them, Overrunning the defence works with his tanks and capturing the enemy infantry and weapon crews at pistol point. In the course of one such daring attack, one tank commander of his troop was killed. Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal continued to attack relentlessly until all enemy opposition was overcome and he broke through towards the ‘B’ Squadron position, the Pakistanis fought very bravely and did not retreat even after losses, instead, they kept moving forward after their initial probing attack on this squadron. He was so carried away by the wild enthusiasm of battle and the impetus of his own headlong dash that he started firing at the tanks that came so close to him and even managed to shoot and destroy one. Soon thereafter, the enemy reformed with a squadron of armour for a second attack and this time they selected the sector held by Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal and two other tanks as the point for their main effort. A fierce tank fight ensued: ten own tanks and 3 enemy tanks were hit and destroyed of which Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal personally destroyed 2, just then Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal was severely wounded. He was asked to abandon his tank but he realized that the enemy though badly decimated was continuing to advance in his sector of responsibility and if he abandoned his tank the enemy would break through, he gallantly fought on and destroyed another enemy tank. At this stage his tank received a second hit which resulted in the death of this gallant officer. Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal was dead but he had, by his intrepid valour saved the day; the enemy was denied the breakthrough he was so desperately seeking. Not one enemy tank got through.

Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal had shown the best qualities of leadership, tenacity of purpose and the will to close in with the enemy. This was an act of courage and self-sacrifice far beyond the call of duty.

• The parade ground at NDA has been named as  "Khetarpal Ground" in his honour, while the auditorium and one of the main gates bear his name at the IMA.
• 2nd Lt Arun Khetarpal's Centurion tank called "Famagusta"was restored after the war and is presently preserved in the Armoured Corps Centre and School in Ahmednagar.
• The Housing project of Arun Vihar in Noida was named after 2nd Lt Arun Khetarapal PVC in his honour.
• A life size statue of  2nd Lt Arun Khetarpal has been erected at his alma mater, the Lawrence School, Sanawar in Himachal Pradesh. A stadium in the school has also been named after him.

• "The only occasion when a breakthrough could have occurred was when two squadrons of 13 Lancers attacked together in the afternoon, but a gallant last ditch lone stand by 2/Lt Arun Khetarpal of Poona Horse averted the danger," said Maj.(Rtd) A. H. Amin ( Pakistan Armour Corps - Columnist and Historian) . The Commander of the Pakistan tank battalion is believed to have met the Indian battalion commander after the battle and made enquiries about 2nd Lieutenant Khetarpal's tank, being impressed with the gallantry of this particular tank's commander.
• His final words over the radio to a superior officer who had ordered him to abandon his burning tank were, "No Sir, I will not abandon my tank. My Main gun is still working and I will get these bastards."
• In 2001, Brigadier M.L. Khetarpal, father of 2nd Lt Khetarpal visited his birthplace at Sargodha (now in Pakistan). At Lahore airport, Brigadier M.L. Khetarpal was met by Brigadier Khawja Mohammad Naser, who took it upon himself to be Brigadier M.L. Khetarpal's host and guide. Brigadier Naser ensured that Brigadier M.L. Khetarpal had a satisfying visit to his old house in Sargodha. Upon his return to Lahore he was once again the guest of Brigadier Naser for three days. Brigadier M.L. Khetarpal was overwhelmed by the extreme kindness, courtesy and respect bestowed upon him by Brigadier Naser and his family and his many servants. On the last night before Brigadier M.L. Khetarpal's departure, Brigadier Naser said 'Sir, there is something that I wanted to tell you for many years but I did not know how to get through to you. Finally, fate has intervened and sent you to me as an honoured guest. The last few days we have become close to one another and that has made my task even more difficult. It is regarding your son who is, of course, a national hero in India. However, on that fateful day, your son and I were soldiers, unknown to one another, fighting for the respect and safety of our respective countries. I regret to tell you that your son died in my hands. Arun's courage was exemplary and he moved his tank with fearless courage and daring, totally unconcerned about his safety. Tank casualties were very high till finally there were just two of us left facing one another. We both fired simultaneously. It was destined that I was to live and he was to die. It was only later that I got to know how young he was and who he was. I had all along thought that I would ask your forgiveness, but in telling the story I realize that there is nothing to forgive. Instead I salute your son for what he did at such a young age and I salute you too, because I know how he grew into such a young man. In the end it is character and values that matter." Brigadier M.L. Khetarpal confused about receiving the hospitality of the person who had killed his son, genuinely admired the chivalry of an officer whose complete squadron was decimated by his son. The next day photographs were taken and Brigadier M.L. Khetarpal returned to Delhi. Later the photos reached Delhi along with a note from Brigadier Naser that said: "With Warmest regards and utmost sincerity, To: Brigadier M.L. Khetarpal, father of Shaheed Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal, PVC, who stood like an unsurmountable rock, between the victory and failure, of the counterattack by the 'SPEARHEADS' 13 LANCERS on 16 December 1971 in the battle of "Bara Pind' as we call it and battle of "Basantar" as 17 Poona Horse remembers. --Khawja Mohammad Naser, 13 Lancers, 2 March 2001, Lahore, Pakistan.
• Mrs Maheshwari Khetarpal said about Brig. Mohammed Naasir, "He told my husband that Arun fought like a tiger and we went to see him after his death. He said Arun was truly a tiger, a brave soldier." She said, "My son did nothing extraordinary. This was his duty and he had joined the army to protect the nation. He did me proud. I am an equally brave mother.”