New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep sorrow over the death of Havaldar (Retd) Baldev Singh, a veteran soldier who fought in four wars against Pakistan. He praised Singh as a symbol of courage and resilience.
“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 wrote on X.
Modi reminisced about meeting Singh in Nowshera a few years back and extended his condolences to Singh’s family and admirers.
Singh, a celebrated war hero, passed away at his home in the Rajouri district of Jammu and Kashmir on Monday at the age of 93. Earlier on Wednesday, BJP President JP Nadda also expressed his condolences to Singh’s family.
Nadda stated on X, “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 for the Bal Sena Force at just 16 during the 1947-48 battles of Naushera and Jhangar. The Bal Sena, consisting of local boys aged 12 to 16, acted as dispatch runners for the Indian Army during crucial moments in these conflicts. In recognition of their bravery, then-Prime Minister Jawahar Lal Nehru honored the Bal Sainiks with gramophones, watches, and opportunities to join the Army.
Singh enlisted in the Army on November 14, 1950, serving with dedication for nearly three decades across multiple wars, including those in 1961, 1962, and 1965 against Pakistan. After retiring in October 1969, he was recalled during the 1971 India-Pakistan war, serving an additional eight months with the 11 JAT Battalion (25 Infantry Division) before returning to civilian life.
Throughout his career, Singh received numerous accolades for his service, earning recognition from leaders such as Nehru, PM Modi, former Vice-President Hamid Ansari, and many others.