CBSE Class 8 Annual Assessment

Chapter 2: Values and Dispositions

Summary

Unit 2 of Poorvi explores courage, sacrifice and compassion. Its main prose reading, “A Tale of Valour: Major Somnath Sharma and the Battle of Badgam”, pays tribute to Major Somnath Sharma of the Kumaon Regiment, India’s first recipient of the Param Vir Chakra. In November 1947, soon after Independence, infiltrators tried to capture the Kashmir Valley and advance towards Srinagar airfield. Despite a fractured arm in plaster, Major Sharma led his company at Badgam against a vastly larger enemy force. Refusing to retreat, he held the position to protect Srinagar, personally carrying ammunition and directing fire until he was killed in action. His leadership delayed the enemy long enough to save the airfield, and his last message—that he would not withdraw even to the last man and the last round—became legendary. The unit links his sacrifice to symbols of national gratitude such as the Param Vir Chakra and the National War Memorial. It is paired with Mary Dow Brine’s poem “Somebody’s Mother”, in which a kind schoolboy helps a poor, old woman cross a snowy street, reminding readers that bravery includes everyday acts of kindness and empathy. Together the readings teach patriotism, selflessness, respect for elders and the values that shape good character.

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