Why in News?
The Battle of Basantar (1971) was a key armoured battle on the Western Front, where Indian forces repelled a Pakistani offensive in the Shakargarh Bulge, securing the Punjab–Jammu sector.
Description:
Strategic Geography: The Shakargarh Bulge
- Location: The battle took place in the Shakargarh Bulge, a wedge-shaped territory in Pakistan that projects toward the Indian districts of Gurdaspur and Amritsar.
- Significance: Capture of this region was vital for India to protect the Jammu–Pathankot axis, the critical land link connecting Jammu and Kashmir with the rest of India.
- The Basantar River: A tributary of the Ravi River. The Indian Army had to breach deep minefields and establish a “bridgehead” across this river to advance.
The Hero of Basantar: 2nd Lt Arun Khetarpal
- Unit: He belonged to the 17th Poona Horse, an elite armored regiment.
- The Action: On December 16, 1971, despite his tank (named Famagusta) being hit and set ablaze, Khetarpal refused to abandon his position.
- Famous Last Words: Over the radio, he famously stated: “No Sir, I will not abandon my tank. My gun is still working and I will get these guys”.
- Legacy: He destroyed 10 enemy tanks before being killed in action at the age of 21. He is the recipient of the Param Vir Chakra (PVC), India’s highest gallantry award.
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