Hanut Singh (soldier) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Lieutenant General
Hanut Singh Rathore
PVSM, MVC
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| Born | 6 July 1933 Jasol, Jodhpur State, British India |
| Died | 10 April 2015 (aged 81) Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India |
| Allegiance |  India |
| Service/ |
 Indian Army |
| Years of service | 1952-1991 |
| Rank |  Lieutenant General |
| Service number | IC-6126 |
| Unit | The Poona Horse |
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Lieutenant General Hanut Singh Rathore (born July 6, 1933 – died April 10, 2015) was a brave Indian Army officer. He is famous for his courage during the Indo-Pakistani War of 1971. He received the Maha Vir Chakra, which is India's second-highest award for bravery in battle. This award was given to him for his amazing leadership in the Battle of Basantar.
Contents
Early Life and Education
Hanut Singh was born in a place called Jasol in Balotra district, India. His family belonged to the Rathore Rajput clan. His father, Lieutenant Colonel Arjun Singh, was also a soldier. He served in famous cavalry units like the Jodhpur Lancers and the Kachhawa Horse.
Hanut Singh went to the Colonel Brown Cambridge School in Dehradun. After that, he joined the first course of the Joint Services Wing. This wing is now known as the National Defence Academy. It's a special place where future officers of the Indian armed forces are trained.
A Career in the Army
After finishing his training at the Indian Military Academy in December 1952, Hanut Singh joined the Indian Army Armoured Corps. This part of the army uses tanks and other armored vehicles. He became an officer in a famous tank regiment called The Poona Horse.
He did not take part in the Indo-Pakistani War of 1965. At that time, he was working as a brigade major for the 66th Brigade. This job involves helping to plan and organize the brigade's operations.
Heroism in the 1971 War
Hanut Singh is best known for his role in the Indo-Pakistani War of 1971. He was in charge of The Poona Horse regiment during the important Battle of Basantar. This battle was a major event in the war.
During the battle, his regiment was sent into a dangerous area. They had to take positions ahead of the infantry soldiers. The enemy launched many strong attacks with their tanks on December 16 and 17.
Lieutenant Colonel Hanut Singh showed incredible bravery. Even with heavy enemy artillery and tank fire, he moved around the battlefield. He went to different areas where his soldiers were fighting. He did not care about his own safety. His presence and calm courage inspired his men. They stayed strong and performed many brave acts. For his outstanding leadership and bravery, he was awarded the Maha Vir Chakra.
Another brave soldier from Hanut Singh's regiment, Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal, also showed great courage in the same battle. He was given the Param Vir Chakra, India's highest military award, after he died in action.
Later in his career, Hanut Singh was promoted to major general in 1983. He became a lieutenant general in 1985. He then commanded the II Corps. This was during a time called Operation Brasstacks, when India and Pakistan almost went to war.
It is said that Pakistan also recognized his bravery after the 1971 war. They gave him the title "Fakhr-e-Hind," which means "Pride of India."
Life After Retirement
After retiring from the army, Hanut Singh chose to live a peaceful life in Dehradun. He spent his time meditating. He passed away on April 11, 2015. The Indian Army has announced plans to build a war memorial in his honor. This memorial will be built in his hometown of Jasol.
Military Awards
Hanut Singh received several important awards for his service to the nation.
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Param Vishisht Seva Medal
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Maha Vir Chakra
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Samar Seva Star
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Paschimi Star
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Raksha Medal
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Sangram Medal
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Sainya Seva Medal
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25th Anniversary of Independence Medal
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30 Years Long Service Medal
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20 Years Long Service Medal
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9 Years Long Service Medal
