During the Indo-Pak War of 1971, Daffadar Bhanwar Singh served with the 17 Poona Horse, one of the Indian Army's most celebrated armored regiments. The regiment played a pivotal role in the Battle of Basantar in the Shakargarh Sector, a critical engagement that significantly influenced the war's outcome. The mission involved securing a bridgehead across the River Basantar, a critical maneuver required to pave the way for Indian forces to advance deep into enemy-held territory. This high-stakes operation was entrusted to the 47th Infantry Brigade, with the 17 Poona Horse under the command of the legendary Lt Col Hanut Singh, providing essential armoured support. The task was fraught with danger, as the area was heavily fortified and extensively mined by the enemy to obstruct the movement of Indian forces. On 14th December 1971, the regiment began its operations in the heavily contested sector. Amid fierce resistance, Daffadar Bhanwar Singh, along with ALD Achal Singh and Sowar Labh Singh, displayed exemplary bravery. The trio fought valiantly against overwhelming odds, demonstrating extraordinary courage and commitment to their mission. Tragically, they made the supreme sacrifice during this operation, laying down their lives to ensure the success of their regiment's mission.
By 15th December 1971, the 47th Infantry Brigade, supported by the 17 Poona Horse, successfully established the bridgehead, achieving a significant milestone in the Battle of Basantar. However, the area remained heavily mined, posing a severe challenge to the mobility of Indian tanks and infantry. On 16th December 1971, the Pakistani Army launched a formidable counterattack at Jarpal, targeting ‘B’ Squadron of the 17 Poona Horse, under the concealment of a smokescreen. This surprise assault was aimed at breaking the Indian defences and regaining a strategic advantage in the region. In response to this critical situation, 2nd Lt Arun Khetarpal and his ‘A’ Squadron were tasked with reinforcing the embattled troops. As the counterattack unfolded, the soldiers of the 17 Poona Horse engaged the enemy in a fierce tank battle, demonstrating exceptional courage and resilience in the face of overwhelming odds. The battlefield became a testament to their tenacity and heroism as they fought valiantly, holding their ground to halt the enemy's advance. The intense battle came at a heavy cost to the regiment.
Over the course of the operation, the 17 Poona Horse lost thirteen gallant soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice to protect their comrades and uphold the mission. On 14th December 1971, Daffadar Bhanwar Singh, ALD Achal Singh, and Sowar Labh Singh were martyred while fulfilling their duty with unmatched bravery. On 16th December 1971, as the battle raged on, several more soldiers laid down their lives in defence of the nation. Alongside 2nd Lt Arun Khetarpal, the fallen heroes included Naib Risaldar Sagat Singh, Sowar Lal Singh, Sowar Bhanwar Singh, Sowar Zile Singh, Sowar Nand Singh, and Sowar Tarlochan Singh, who fought with unrelenting spirit and dedication. The sacrifices continued into 17th December 1971, when Daffadar Durga Singh and Sowar RN Dhankhar succumbed to their injuries sustained during the fierce combat. The bravery and sacrifice displayed by Daffadar Bhanwar Singh and his comrades during the "Battle of Basantar" were instrumental in ensuring the success of a pivotal operation. Their steadfast commitment not only safeguarded their comrades but also played a decisive role in securing a significant victory for the Indian Army.
Daffadar Bhanwar Singh is survived by his wife Smt Dhanpati Devi.
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