PM Modi expresses grief over death of war veteran

Havaldar Baldev Singh enlisted in the Army on November 14, 1950, and served the force with dedication and valour for nearly three decades.

New Delhi:Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday expressed grief at the death of veteran soldier Havaldar (retd) Baldev Singh, who fought four wars against Pakistan, and lauded him as a true epitome of courage and grit.

“His monumental service to India will be remembered for years to come. A true epitome of courage and grit, his unwavering dedication to the nation will inspire future generations,” PM Modi said on X.

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“I fondly recall meeting him in Nowshera a few years ago. My condolences to his family and admirers,” the Prime Minister added.

Singh, a revered war hero, passed away at his residence in Jammu and Kashmir’s Rajouri district on Monday. He was 93.

Earlier on Wednesday, BJP President JP Nadda expressed condolences to the family of veteran soldier Havaldar (Retd) Baldev Singh.

Havaldar (Retd) Baldev Singh’s last rites were performed with full military honour and service protocols at his native village Naunihal, in Nowshera, on Tuesday.

Taking to X, Nadda wrote, “Deeply saddened by the passing of Havaldar Baldev Singh (Retd), a revered war hero who gave his all for the nation. His extraordinary service and bravery were celebrated throughout his life, and his legacy will always be remembered in the gallantry stories of the Indian Army. My heartfelt condolences to his family and admirers. Om Shanti.”

Born on September 27, 1931, at Naunihal village, Singh volunteered to join the Bal Sena Force under the leadership of Brigadier Usman, Commander of the 50 Para Brigade, when he was just 16, during the battle of Naushera and Jhangar in 1947-48.

The Bal Sena, a group of local boys aged 12 to 16, served as despatch runners for the Indian Army in the critical moments of these battles. In recognition of their bravery, the then Prime Minister Jawahar Lal Nehru honoured the Bal Sainiks, presenting them with gramophones, watches, and the opportunity to join the Army.

Havaldar Baldev Singh enlisted in the Army on November 14, 1950, and served the force with dedication and valour for nearly three decades. His distinguished service spanned multiple wars, including the 1961, 1962, and 1965 India-Pakistan wars.

Despite retiring in October 1969, Singh was recalled during the India-Pakistan war of 1971, and he served in the 11 JAT Battalion (25 Infantry Division) for an additional eight months before returning to civilian life.

Throughout his career, Havaldar Singh received numerous honours for his service, including recognition by Nehru, current Prime Minister Narendra Modi, former Vice-President Hamid Ansari, and several other distinguished leaders.