Prime Minister Modi Mourns the Passing of War Hero
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New Delhi, Jan 9 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday expressed profound sorrow over the passing of veteran soldier Havaldar (retd) Baldev Singh, who bravely fought in four wars against Pakistan, and celebrated him as a true model of courage and determination.
“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 stated on X.
“I fondly recall meeting him in Nowshera a few years ago. My condolences to his family and admirers,” the Prime Minister added.
Singh, a cherished war hero, departed at his home in Rajouri district of Jammu and Kashmir on Monday. He was aged 93.
Earlier on Wednesday, BJP President JP Nadda conveyed his sympathies to the family of veteran soldier Havaldar (Retd) Baldev Singh.
The last rites for Havaldar (Retd) Baldev Singh were conducted with full military honors and service protocols at his native village Naunihal, located 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, in Naunihal village, Singh volunteered to join the Bal Sena Force under the command of Brigadier Usman, Commander of the 50 Para Brigade, when he was merely 16, during the battle of Naushera and Jhangar in 1947-48.
The Bal Sena, composed of local boys aged 12 to 16, acted as dispatch runners for the Indian Army during critical moments of these battles. In recognition of their valor, the then Prime Minister Jawahar Lal Nehru honored the Bal Sainiks, presenting them with gramophones, watches, and the chance to enlist in the Army.
Havaldar Baldev Singh enlisted in the Army on November 14, 1950, serving the force with dedication and valor for nearly three decades. His distinguished service encompassed multiple wars, including the 1961, 1962, and 1965 India-Pakistan wars.
Even after retiring in October 1969, Singh was recalled during the India-Pakistan war of 1971, serving 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 accolades for his service, including recognition from Nehru, current Prime Minister Narendra Modi, former Vice-President Hamid Ansari, and several other distinguished leaders.
