Who was Lt Gen PS Bhagat? Victoria Cross recipient in WWII, ‘Defender of Lucknow’

New Delhi: The Indian Army on Wednesday paid tribute to one of its most illustrious officers, Lt Gen PS Bhagat, by organizing the first “Lt Gen PS Bhagat Memorial Lecture”. The lecture focused on the theme “Legacy of Lt. Gen. Prem Bhagat- A visionary and strategic leader”. The event was graced by General VP Malik (Retd), former Army Chief, who delivered a keynote address and shared several inspiring stories from the life and career of Lt Gen Bhagat. Chief of Army Staff General Manoj Pandey, former chiefs General VN Sharma (Retd) and General MM Naravane (Retd) along with senior veterans and serving officers and civilians also attended the lecture. The aim of the lecture was to honor the contribution of Lt Gen Bhagat and learn from his exemplary leadership and charisma.

Who was Lt Gen PS Bhagat?

Lieutenant General PS Bhagat was a great soldier who served as the first General Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the re-constituted Northern Command. He was also an outstanding professional and a prolific writer. He created history by becoming the first Indian soldier to receive the prestigious Victoria Cross in World War II, when he was a young second lieutenant. He displayed extraordinary courage and determination by clearing landmines under non-stop enemy fire for 96 hours despite suffering from ear injury and three mine explosions.

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‘Savior of Lucknow’

Lt Gen Bhagat was also known for his innovative and humane approach towards various challenges. He saved the city of Lucknow from flooding in September 1971 by using trucks laden with stones and boulders to fill a breach in the Gomti River. He earned the sobriquet “Saviour of Lucknow” from the local newspapers for this feat.

lenient treatment of Pak POWs after 1971 war

He treated 90,000 Pakistani prisoners of war after the Indo-Pak war of 1971 with dignity and respect, ensuring that they had all facilities and amenities under the Geneva Conventions. He even vacated the residences of some of his soldiers for them. His kind treatment of prisoners of war won his admiration and gratitude, and he wanted his officers to be as good as their Indian counterparts in taking care of their soldiers.

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Lt Gen Bhagat was a visionary and strategic leader who left an indelible mark on the history of the Indian Army. His legacy is a source of inspiration and pride for all Indians. The Indian Army salutes him and remembers him with reverence and respect.