warsPeriod: October 1947 – January 1949Archival Dossier
1947–48 Jammu & Kashmir Operations
Historical reference on the 1947–48 operations defending Jammu & Kashmir — from the airlift to Srinagar and the battles of Badgam, Shalateng, Uri, Poonch, and Zoji La.
Strategic Overview
Immediately following Independence in October 1947, following the signing of the Instrument of Accession, the Indian Armed Forces conducted an unprecedented airlift to Srinagar airfield on 27 October 1947 — commemorated as Infantry Day — to repel armed raiders and regular forces in Jammu & Kashmir.
Key Operations & Campaigns
- Defence of Srinagar & Badgam (October–November 1947): Holding the approaches to Srinagar airfield and the decisive counter-offensive at Shalateng that secured the Kashmir Valley.
- Relief of Poonch & Defence of Skardu, Leh, Jhangar, Naushera & Rajauri: Prolonged high-altitude and mountain operations across Jammu and Ladakh.
- Operation Bison — Zoji La (November 1948): Employment of light tanks at over 11,500 feet across the snowbound Zoji La pass to relieve Leh and liberate Kargil and Drass.
Gallantry Heritage
India’s highest wartime gallantry award, the Param Vir Chakra, was instituted with effect from 15 August 1947; its first recipient, Major Somnath Sharma (4 Kumaon), was honoured posthumously for the Battle of Badgam on 3 November 1947.