Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his deep sorrow on Wednesday over the passing of veteran soldier Havaldar (retd) Baldev Singh, who served with distinction in four wars against Pakistan. Lauding Singh’s extraordinary courage and dedication, PM Modi called him a true symbol of grit and service to the nation.
PM Modi Pays Tribute To Courage And Dedication
PM Modi took to X to share his condolences, saying, “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.” The Prime Minister also fondly recalled meeting Singh in Nowshera a few years ago, expressing his deep respect for the war hero. “My condolences to his family and admirers,” Modi added.
Saddened by the passing of Hav Baldev Singh (Retd). 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. I fondly recall meeting him in Nowshera a few… pic.twitter.com/0GvgvWhhSd
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) January 8, 2025
Singh, a revered figure and war hero, passed away at his residence in Rajouri district, Jammu and Kashmir, on Monday. He was 93 years old at the time of his death.
BJP President JP Nadda Offers Condolences
BJP President JP Nadda also expressed his heartfelt condolences to the family of Havaldar (Retd) Baldev Singh. In his message on 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.”
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…
— Jagat Prakash Nadda (@JPNadda) January 8, 2025
Singh’s last rites were conducted with full military honours in his native village, Naunihal, in Nowshera, on Tuesday, under military service protocols.
A Legacy of Valor and Service
Born on September 27, 1931, in Naunihal village, Baldev Singh’s journey as a soldier began at the young age of 16. He volunteered to join the Bal Sena Force, a group of local boys aged 12 to 16, who served as dispatch runners during the battle of Naushera and Jhangar in 1947-48.
Under the leadership of Brigadier Usman, the Bal Sena played a critical role in assisting the Indian Army during these pivotal moments. In recognition of their bravery, the then Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru honoured the Bal Sainiks, offering them gramophones, watches, and the chance to join the Army.
Following this, Singh enlisted in the Indian Army on November 14, 1950. Over the next three decades, he served with remarkable valour, participating in multiple wars, including the 1961, 1962, and 1965 India-Pakistan wars. Despite retiring in 1969, Singh was recalled during the 1971 India-Pakistan war, where he served in the 11 JAT Battalion (25 Infantry Division) for an additional eight months.
Throughout his illustrious military career, Singh received numerous accolades for his bravery and service to the nation. His distinguished service was recognized by several prominent leaders, including Jawaharlal Nehru, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, former Vice President Hamid Ansari, and many others.
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