Jaswant Singh Rawat : Explore the early life of Jaswant Singh Rawat, the valiant soldier who defended India against Chinese forces in 1962.
Jaswant Singh Rawat : Introduction
Jaswant Singh Rawat : In the annals of military history, certain stories stand out as testament to the indomitable spirit and unwavering courage of individuals who go above and beyond the call of duty. One such tale is that of Rifleman Jaswant Singh Rawat, a valiant soldier who played a pivotal role during the 1962 India-China war. As we delve into the life of this extraordinary hero, we unravel the saga of his courage, sacrifice, and the indelible mark he left on the icy heights of Arunachal Pradesh.
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Early life and joining the Indian army
Jaswant Singh Rawat, born on August 19, 1941, in the serene village of Baryun in Pauri Garhwal district, exemplified the grit and determination that would later define his military career. Joining the Indian Army on August 19, 1960, at the tender age of 19, Rawat became a part of the esteemed 4 Garhwal Rifles, a regiment renowned for its gallantry and numerous battle honors.
The battleground : Sela in Arunachal Pradesh
As the last phase of the 1962 India-China war unfolded, the Indian Army found itself grappling with a shortage of manpower and ammunition in the eastern sector. On November 17, 1962, Rifleman Jaswant Singh Rawat’s battalion faced relentless Chinese assaults near Sela in Arunachal Pradesh. Little did the world know that this would become the stage for a display of unmatched bravery.
Jaswant Singh Rawat’s solo stand
In the frigid heights of Arunachal Pradesh, Jaswant Singh Rawat etched his name in history by single-handedly holding off over 300 Chinese soldiers for a staggering 72 hours. Armed with just one machine gun, Rawat’s unwavering resolve and tactical brilliance thwarted the advancing Chinese forces. His heroic stand during the 1962 war earned him the posthumous honor of the Maha Vir Chakra.
The battle unfolds : November 17, 1962
On that fateful day, Chinese soldiers launched a pre-dawn attack on the Indian Army post. Rifleman Jaswant Singh, alongside fellow soldiers, successfully repelled two PLA groups. However, the situation intensified when the Chinese began firing from a close range using a Medium Machine Gun (MMG). Rawat, along with his comrades, valiantly attempted to subdue the MMG.
In the ensuing struggle, Rawat and his fellow soldiers, Lance Naik Trilok Singh Negi and Rifleman Gopal Singh Gusain, exhibited exceptional bravery. While attempting to seize the MMG, Gusain and Negi sacrificed their lives. Severely injured, Rawat refused to retreat and continued the fight with the aid of two local girls, Sela and Noora, who jumped between different sides of the bunker.
The unyielding spirit and sacrifice
For three days, the Chinese forces were unable to ascertain the number of Indian soldiers resisting them. Rawat’s tenacity and the support of the local girls resulted in the death of over 300 Chinese soldiers. Today, at the Jaswantgarh War Memorial, his daily needs are placed near his statue, symbolizing the belief that he continues to guard his post from beyond the realms of mortality.
Battle of Nuranang 1962 : The local story
During the Battle of Nuranang, as Rawat was assisted by local girls Sela and Nura, a tragic turn of events unfolded. The PLA soldiers captured a man supplying food to Rawat, learning that only one man stood against them. In response, the Chinese launched a full-force attack, leading to the death of one of the girls, Sula, while the other was taken captive.
In a display of unparalleled courage, Jaswant Singh Rawat chose to end his life with his last bullet rather than be captured by the Chinese. The enraged Chinese forces cut off his head and returned it, along with a brass bust of Jaswant Singh, after the ceasefire, recognizing the soldier’s valor.
The legacy lives on
Jaswant Singh Rawat’s legacy extends beyond the pages of history. The 4th Garhwal Rifles was awarded the “Battle Honor Nuranang,” the only battle honor bestowed upon an Army unit in the Sino-Indian war of 1962. His memorial at Jaswantgarh stands as a testament to his heroism, with a daily ritual of placing his necessities near the statue, affirming the belief that he still guards his post.
Conclusion
Rifleman Jaswant Singh Rawat’s unwavering commitment to duty, selfless sacrifice, and indomitable spirit continue to inspire generations. The Battle of Nuranang and his heroic deeds serve as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by Indian soldiers to safeguard the nation’s sovereignty. On his birthday, let us remember and honor the legacy of this gallant warrior, who stood tall in the face of adversity, defending the principles and freedom of his homeland.
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