Major MS Bal hailed from Delhi, born and raised in a family deeply rooted in the values of discipline, dedication, and patriotism. He was the son of Major General Tara Singh Bal, a distinguished officer commissioned in 1929 into the 7th Cavalry. Major General Bal had an illustrious career, transitioning to the Poona Regiment after World War II, commanding the 19th Infantry Brigade, and becoming the first Indian officer to command the prestigious One Armoured Brigade. Inspired by his father’s exemplary service and following in his footsteps, Major MS Bal also joined the 7th Cavalry, later renamed the 7th Light Cavalry, one of the most distinguished regiments of the Indian Armoured Corps. Major MS Bal was not the only member of his family to choose a life of service to the nation. His younger brother, Amarjit Singh, also joined the Indian Army and went on to achieve great distinction (He was awarded the Maha Vir Chakra, India's second-highest gallantry honour, for his extraordinary bravery and exemplary leadership during the 1971 Indo-Pak War).
Driven by a strong sense of duty, Major Bal pursued his education diligently before deciding to serve the nation by joining the Indian Army. Commissioned into the 7th Light Cavalry, he became part of a regiment renowned for its operational versatility and excellence in armored warfare. The 7th Light Cavalry boasts a long and storied history, recognized for its prowess in handling tanks and heavy weaponry, and for its exceptional contributions to various operations and exercises. Major MS Bal distinguished himself as an officer with a rare combination of strategic acumen and hands-on leadership. His expertise in operating and commanding tanks earned him immense respect among his peers and subordinates. Over the years, he participated in numerous operational deployments, honing his skills in armoured tactics and modern warfare. As an officer of the Armoured Corps, Major Bal took on responsibilities demanding technical proficiency, quick decision-making under pressure, and adept management of men and machinery. His service in exercises and maneuvers showcased his deep understanding of modern armored warfare, contributing significantly to the operational readiness of his unit.
Indo-Pak War (Western Sector) : 03-23 Sep 1965
During Sep 1965, Major M S Bal’s unit 7 Cav was deployed on the western border. Major MS Bal played a pivotal role in the operations of the 1965 Indo-Pak War as part of the 7 Cavalry (7 Cav), functioning under 1 Armoured Brigade led by Brigadier KK Singh. The brigade was under the operational control of 1 Armoured Division, commanded by Major General Rajinder Singh ‘Sparrow.’ The 1 Armoured Division, based in Jullundur, was tasked with advancing into Pakistani territory to capture the strategic areas of Phillora and Pagowal by 8 September 1965. The decision to launch a counter-offensive was made on 3 September 1965 following Pakistan’s offensive in the Chhamb Sector. The Indian I Corps, commanded by Lieutenant General PO Dunn, was tasked with isolating Sialkot from Lahore by driving a wedge into the area of Daska, north of Gujranwala. Among its divisions, the 1 Armoured Division was the most critical for this mission due to its mobility and firepower.
7 Cavalry, was equipped with PT-76 tanks and formed part of the main spearhead advancing along the axis Ramgarh-Kangre-Sabzkot-Chobara-Phillora. Despite logistical challenges, including the I Corps’ recent formation in May 1965 and a lack of third-line transport, the division pressed forward with determination. The advance of 1 Armoured Brigade was synchronized with the movement of 43 Lorried Brigade on a parallel axis, ensuring a coordinated attack to achieve their objectives. Major MS Bal's leadership was instrumental in 7 Cav’s successful maneuvering and engagements during this operation. The unit's performance contributed significantly to the crippling of Pakistan’s 1 Armoured Division, a decisive moment in the war that prevented a potential turnaround by the enemy forces.
Tragically, Major MS Bal was martyred just 30 minutes before the ceasefire came into effect on 23 September 1965. His sacrifice underscored the high price paid by Indian forces in securing territorial gains and inflicting significant damage on the adversary. By the time the ceasefire was declared, I Corps had captured approximately 500 square kilometers of Pakistani territory, marking a major achievement for the Indian Army. The gallantry and leadership of Major MS Bal and the operational success of 7 Cavalry exemplify the indomitable spirit of the Indian Army during the 1965 war.
Major MS Bal is survived by his wife Smt Manveen Bal, son Shri Alok Bal, daughter Smt Aneet Bal.
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