The Battle of Naushera in 1947, marked by the courage and determination of Indian forces, is a significant chapter in the region's history. Naushera, nestled in Jammu and Kashmir, is a picturesque haven, surrounded by the majestic Pir Panjal range. The landscape is adorned with lush meadows, dense forests, and tranquil rivers, while vibrant wildflowers bloom in spring and summer, contrasting beautifully with the snow-covered peaks. The crystal-clear streams mirror the area's untouched beauty, and the forests are abundant with wildlife, making Naushera an ideal retreat for nature enthusiasts seeking peace and serenity.
The Battle of Naushera in 1947-48 was a defining moment in the First Indo-Pak War, with the commander of the 50th Parachute Brigade Brigadier Mohd Usman playing a pivotal role in defending key positions in Jammu and Kashmir. After Pakistani forces captured Jhangar on December 25, 1947, a strategic location at the junction of roads from Mirpur and Kotli, the Brigade Commander vowed to recapture Jhangar. In January and February 1948, the brigade, faced overwhelming odds as Pakistani forces launched fierce attacks on Naushera and Jhangar, both vital to the defense of the region. Despite the enemy’s numerical superiority, the Indian forces inflicted heavy casualties on the Pakistanis. The successful defence of Naushera earned the Brigade, Commander Brigadier Mohd Usman the title "Lion of Naushera". This determination to recapture Jhangar was crucial in stabilising the front lines and thwarting the enemy’s advances. The Indian forces eventually drove the enemy out and Jhangar was recaptured, marking a significant victory and strengthening the defence of Jammu and Kashmir.
CITATION
Naik Jadunath Singh
1 RAJPUT (NO 27373)
At No 2 picquet on Taindhar on 6 February 1948, No 27373 Naik Jadunath Singh was in command of a forward section post, which bore the full brunt of the enemy attack. Nine men against overwhelming odds garrisoned the little post. The enemy launched its attack in successive waves and with great ferocity to overcome this post. The first wave swept up to the post in a furious attack. Displaying great valour and superb qualities of leadership Naidk Jadunath Singh so used the small force at his disposal that the enemy retired in utter confusion. Four of his men were wounded but Naik Jadunath Singh again showed his qualities of good leadership by reorganizing the battered force under him, for meeting another onslaught. His coolness and courage were of such an order that the men rallied and were ready for the second attack which came with greater determination and in larger number than the preceding one. Though hopelessly outnumbered, this post under the gallant leadership of Naik Jadunath Singh resisted. All were wounded, and Naik Jadunath Singh, though wounded in the right arm, personally took over the Bren gun from the wounded Bren gunner. The enemy was right on the walls of the post but Naid Jadunath Singh once again showed outstanding ability and valour of the highest order in action. By his complete disregard for his personal safety and example of coolness and courage, he encouraged his men to fight. His fire was so devastating, that what looked like impending defeat was turned into a victory and the enemy retreated in chaos leaving the dead and wounded littered on the ground. With this act of supreme heroism and outstanding example of leadership and determination, Naik Jadunath Singh saved the post from the second assault. By this time, all men in the post were casualties. The enemy put in his third and final attack in undiminished numbers and determination to capture this post. Naik Jadunath Singh, now wounded, prepared literally single-handed to give battle for the third time. With great courage and determination, he came out of the sangar and finally with the Sten gun, made a most magnificent single-handed charge on the advancing enemy, who, completely taken by surprise, fled in disorder. Naik Jadunath Singh, however, met his gallant death in his third and last charge when two bullets hit him in the head and chest. Thus, charging single-handedly at the advancing enemy, this Non-Commissioned Officer, performed the highest act of gallantry and self-sacrifice and by so doing saved his section-nay, his whole picquet from being overrun by the enemy at the most critical stage in the battle for the defence of Nushera.
Jammu Airport ⇌ Naushera (112km)
