Valour Day: A Tribute to the Brave CRPF Soldiers at Sardar Post, Rann of Kutch (April 9, 1965)

April 9th, 1965, marks one of the most extraordinary chapters in India’s military history—the battle at Sardar Post in the Rann of Kutch, Gujarat, where a small but highly determined contingent of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) held their ground against a much larger, fully equipped Pakistani military brigade. The battle, fought under challenging circumstances, is a remarkable testament to the indomitable spirit, courage, and valor of the CRPF soldiers. Each year, the day is commemorated as Valour Day, paying tribute to the extraordinary sacrifices made by these unsung heroes.

The Rann of Kutch, located in the westernmost part of India, is a harsh and inhospitable desert region, characterized by salt marshes and dry terrain. In the early 1960s, tensions between India and Pakistan were high, especially regarding the Kashmir issue and territorial disputes along the international border. The Rann of Kutch, though not strategically vital at the time, became the focal point of military action when the two countries clashed over the ownership of this region.

In 1965, a brief but intense conflict known as the Rann of Kutch skirmish occurred between the Indian and Pakistani forces. Though the larger war between India and Pakistan would break out later that year in September, the battle at Sardar Post was a precursor to the escalation. Pakistan had already mobilized its forces along the western front, and the small Indian contingent at Sardar Post found themselves at the mercy of the much larger Pakistani military.

The Pakistani military brigade, numbering around 3,500 men, was composed of elite forces, including the 18 Punjab Battalion, 8 Frontier Rifles, and 6 Baluch Battalion. Their mission was clear: to capture the Indian territory guarded by the post. The Pakistani forces were well-armed with modern artillery, heavy machine guns, mortars, and tanks. In contrast, the defending force—two companies of the Second Battalion of CRPF—numbered only about 150 men. They were armed primarily with infantry weapons such as rifles, light machine guns, and a limited supply of mortars.

Additionally, the terrain itself was not in the favor of the defenders. The flat, salty expanse of the Rann of Kutch offered no cover, and the weather conditions added to the difficulties faced by the Indian soldiers.

The Pakistani forces, confident of an easy victory due to their overwhelming numbers and superior artillery, launched their first attack on the post. The small CRPF contingent, despite being severely outnumbered and under-equipped, mounted a courageous defense. The CRPF soldiers, understanding the importance of the post as a strategic point, fought with determination, refusing to surrender.

As the battle progressed, the Pakistani forces attempted to break through three times. They launched heavy artillery bombardments, used mortars, and tried to force their way through the defenses with tanks. However, the defenders held their ground with remarkable skill and bravery. Using the limited resources at their disposal, the CRPF soldiers displayed strategic ingenuity in repelling the attackers.

The post was crucial because it served as a forward defense point in the region, and its loss would have meant a significant strategic setback for India. The defending CRPF soldiers, led by their commanders, demonstrated exceptional courage and resilience, effectively using the terrain to their advantage, despite being vastly outgunned and outnumbered.

Despite multiple assaults, the Pakistani forces were unable to capture the post. After twelve hours of continuous fighting, the attackers realized that they were facing unexpected resistance. The well-coordinated defense and the tireless perseverance of the CRPF soldiers forced the Pakistani military to reassess their situation. Ultimately, after suffering significant casualties, the Pakistani forces were compelled to retreat, leaving behind their dead and wounded.

During the battle, the Pakistani Army suffered 34 dead, including two officers, and several wounded. Another four Pakistani soldiers were captured alive. On the Indian side, the sacrifices were immense. Six brave CRPF soldiers laid down their lives during the battle, making the ultimate sacrifice to defend their country.

The battle at Sardar Post is unparalleled in history. It is an extraordinary example of how a small contingent of soldiers, armed only with basic infantry weapons, defeated an entire military brigade and forced it to retreat. The skill, courage, and tactical brilliance of the CRPF soldiers, who had no real artillery support and were outnumbered by a factor of more than 20, left a lasting legacy of heroism.

This victory sent a powerful message: that courage and determination could overcome even the most challenging odds. The small but resolute defense by the CRPF was a significant morale booster for the Indian forces, especially in the lead-up to the full-scale war between India and Pakistan later that year. The battle was one of the precursors to the Indo-Pakistani War of 1965, which erupted in September, but it demonstrated the capacity of Indian forces to hold their ground under dire circumstances.

In recognition of their bravery, Valour Day was instituted, commemorating the sacrifices of the CRPF soldiers at Sardar Post. Every year, the day is observed to honor the bravery of these men who stood against overwhelming odds to protect Indian soil.

Valour Day is not just a day of commemoration; it is a reminder of the selflessness and courage that men in uniform display to safeguard the sovereignty and integrity of their nation. The battle at Sardar Post exemplified the best qualities of the Indian armed forces—resilience, patriotism, and strategic intelligence.

The courage displayed by the CRPF soldiers serves as an inspiration to future generations. Their valor continues to be celebrated by the Indian Armed Forces, and the people of India remain forever grateful for their sacrifices.
In the words of General K. M. Cariappa, the first Indian Commander-in-Chief of the Indian Army: “A soldier’s duty is not only to defend the nation but also to defend its values, its honor, and its sovereignty.”

Valour Day remains a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by the six brave CRPF soldiers who gave their lives that fateful day, as well as the courage of their comrades who stood firm, turning the tide of battle. Their bravery and heroism continue to inspire generations of Indians who cherish their freedom, sovereignty, and the heroes who defend it