Veteran soldier Havildar(retd) Baldev Singh who fought four wars against Pakistan passed away at the age of 93. Singh enlisted in the Army on November 14, 1950. He served as a despatch runner for the Army during the Battle of Naushera and Jhangar in 1947-48. He has fought multiple wars including the India-Pakistan wars of 1961, 1962 and 1965.
About The Legend
Havildar Singh was born on September 27, 1931, in the village of Naunihal in Naushera. Driven by a deep sense of patriotism, he stepped forward to serve his nation at just 16 years old. He volunteered for the Bal Sena Force under the legendary Brigadier Usman, the “Lion of Naushera,” during the intense battles of Naushera and Jhangar in 1947-48.
His Journey In The Indian Army
Over the years, Singh’s remarkable service earned him heartfelt recognition from leaders across generations, including former Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, former Vice President Hamid Ansari, and many other distinguished figures.
Throughout his remarkable career, Singh was honored time and again for his unwavering service to the nation. From receiving recognition from India’s first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, to being celebrated by the current Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, his contributions were acknowledged by leaders across generations. The last rites were held at Naunihal village on Monday with full military honours and service protocols.
The Bal Sena, a courageous group of local boys aged 12 to 16, played a vital role during these critical battles by serving as dispatch runners for the Indian Army. Their bravery didn’t go unnoticed—then Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru personally honored these young heroes, presenting them with gramophones, watches, and the cherished opportunity to join the Indian Army.
Even after retiring in October 1969, Singh’s dedication to his country brought him back to serve during the India-Pakistan War of 1971. For eight months, he stood tall with the 11 JAT Battalion (25 Infantry Division) before finally returning to civilian life.
The Prime Minister, Narendra Modi has condoled the demise of army veteran, Havildar(Retd) Baldev Singh and said that 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, Shri Modi further added.
The Prime Minister posted On X;
“Saddened by the passing of Havildar 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 years ago. My condolences to his family and admirers.”
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
Havildar Baldev Singh was laid to rest with full military honors in his native village of Naunihal, Nowshera, on Tuesday. Brigadier Bir Bikram, Commander of the 80 Infantry Brigade, paid his respects by laying a wreath on Singh’s mortal remains and offering heartfelt condolences to his grieving family.
