Indian Defence Review

Further north, in Punjab, 8 Sikh Light Infantry fought bravely under the inspired leadership of Lieutenant Colonel HC Pathak who earned an MVC for rare courage in command of his battalion. In the battle of Basantar, Lieutenant Colonel VP Ghai led 16 MADRAS to success in a determined attack even after sustaining wounds. He was posthumously awarded MVC. In the same battle, on 16/ 17 December 1971, Major Hoshiar Singh of 3 GRENADIERS beat back a number of counter attacks with grit and determination. Though wounded he refused to be evacuated and continued to inspire his men. He became the only infantryman in the western theatre to be decorated with PVC.