Students rely on Class 7 English Extra Questions and Class 7 English Chapter 13 A Homage to Our Brave Soldiers Extra Questions and Answers to improve their grades.
A Homage to Our Brave Soldiers Extra Question Answer Class 7 English Chapter 13
A Homage to Our Brave Soldiers Short Questions and Answers
Question 1.
Why do you think the National War Memorial is designed with four concentric circles? How do they symbolize different aspects of soldiers’ sacrifices?
Answer:
The four circles represent the journey of a soldier’s duty and sacrifice. The Amar Chakra symbolizes immortality through the eternal flame, the Veerta Chakra highlights courage in battle, the Tyag Chakra honors personal sacrifice, and the Raksha Chakra signifies protection and security for the nation. This design ensures that the memory of fallen soldiers remains eternal.
Question 2.
How does the Amar Jawan Jyoti at the National War Memorial differ from the one at India Gate? What does this shift in memorialization indicate?
Answer:
The original Amar Jawan Jyoti at India Gate was a tribute to unknown soldiers of the 1971 war, whereas the new flame at the National War Memorial integrates the memory of all postindependence war heroes. This shift indicates India’s evolving focus on recognizing its own modern military history rather than its colonial past.
Question 3.
Why do you think it is important for students to visit war memorials? How does such an experience shape their perspective?
Answer:
Vișiting war memorials instills patriotism, respect for soldiers’ sacrifices, and a deeper understanding of national security. It helps students appreciate the value of freedom and the cost paid by soldiers to protect it. This experience fosters responsibility and gratitude toward the armed forces.
Question 4.
In what ways do war memorials contribute to national identity and unity?
Answer:
War memorials serve as reminders of collective sacrifice, reinforcing national pride and unity. They honour soldiers from diverse backgrounds, highlighting that national defense is a shared responsibility beyond regional or cultural differences.
A Homage to Our Brave Soldiers Long Questions and Answers
Question 1.
How does the National War Memorial inspire a sense of responsibility among Indian citizens?
Answer:
The National War Memorial inspires responsibility among citizens by commemorating the sacrifices of soldiers who laid down their lives for the nation. It serves as a reminder of the cost of freedom, encouraging individuals to contribute positively to society.
The four concentric circles represent different aspects of military service, reinforcing values like courage, commitment, and sacrifice. By educating visitors about historic battles such as the 1962 Indo-China War, 1971 Indo-Pak War, and Kargil War, the memorial instills national pride and responsibility. It also fosters civic duty, reminding citizens to uphold the nation’s unity and integrity.
Question 2.
What leadership and resilience lessons can be learned from the war heroes commemorated at the memorial?
Answer:
The National War Memorial honours soldiers who displayed extraordinary leadership and resilience. Leaders like Major Shaitan Singh (Battle of Rezang La, 1962) and Captain Vikram Batra (Kargil War, 1999) demonstrated decision-making under pressure, a crucial skill for leadership. The Battle of Tololing showcased teamwork and the importance of collective success over individual efforts.
The harsh conditions of the Siachen conflict highlighted resilience, as soldiers endured extreme weather to protect the nation. War heroes like Flying Officer Nirmal Jit Singh Sekhon (1971) proved that commitment to duty defines true leadership. These lessons apply beyond the battlefield, influencing leaders in business, governance, and daily life.
Question 3.
How does the National War Memorial differ from India Gate in its historical significance?
Answer:
India Gate, built in 1931, was a British-era monument honoring Indian soldiers who fought in World War I and the Third Anglo-Afghan War. It did not recognize the contributions of independent India’s armed forces. The Amar Jawan Jyoti, added in 1972 after the 1971 Indo-Pak War, partially addressed this gap, but a dedicated war memorial was still needed.
The National War Memorial (2019) was built to honor soldiers who fought in postindependence conflicts, including the 1962, 1965, and 1971 wars, the Kargil War (1999), and counter-insurgency operations. Unlike India Gate, which symbolizes colonial rule, the NWM represents India’s independent military legacy, ensuring that the sacrifices of Indian soldiers are honoured with a monument of their own.
Question 4.
What does the Tyag Chakra represent, and how does it reflect the sacrifices made for national security?
Answer:
The Tyag Chakra (Circle of Sacrifice) represents the selfless sacrifices made by Indian soldiers for national security. Engraved with the names of 25,942 fallen heroes, it serves as a permanent tribute to their courage. Sacrifice is not just about dying in battle; it includes enduring harsh conditions, staying away from family, and facing extreme danger daily.
The Siachen conflict, where soldiers withstand temperatures of -50° C, is a powerful example of their sacrifices. The Tyag Chakra inspires citizens to recognize that national security is a shared responsibility, reinforcing the idea that peace and sovereignty come at a great cost.
Question 5.
How does the National War Memorial serve as an educational platform for citizens and students?
Answer:
The National War Memorial is more than a monument-it is an educational institution. Many citizens are unaware of India’s military history, including lesser-known conflicts like the 1962 Indo-China War and the 1987 Operation Pawan (Sri Lanka).
By providing detailed information about battles, soldiers’ sacrifices, and strategic military decisions, the memorial helps bridge the knowledge gap in history textbooks. Interactive displays, murals, and guided tours further enhance learning. The memorial also instills patriotism by narrating the personal stories of soldiers, ensuring that their legacy inspires future generations.
Question 6.
Why was the Amar Jawan Jyoti merged with the National War Memorial flame?
Answer:
The Amar Jawan Jyoti, originally established under India Gate in 1972, symbolized respect for soldiers who died in post-independence wars. However, it was separate from the National War Memorial, which was built in 2019 as India’s official war tribute. In 2022 , the eternal flame was merged with the NWM, marking a transition from colonial-era commemorations to an independent Indiacentric recognition of military sacrifices. This shift ensured that all war heroes, from 1947 to the present, are honored at one unified location.
Question 7.
What do the four concentric circles of the National War Memorial represent?
Answer:
The memorial consists of four concentric circles, each symbolizing a unique aspect of military service:
- Amar Chakra (Circle of Immortality): Represents the eternal spirit of fallen soldiers through the eternal flame.
- Veerta Chakra (Circle of Bravery): Showcases acts of valour through battle murals.
- Tyag Chakra (Circle of Sacrifice): Lists the names of soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice.
- Raksha Chakra (Circle of Protection): Features trees symbolizing the protection provided by the armed forces.
Question 8.
How does the National War Memorial recognize the role of women in the armed forces?
Answer:
Women have played a crucial role in the Indian Armed Forces, but their contributions have often been overlooked. The National War Memorial acknowledges female officers who have displayed exceptional courage, such as those in the Army Medical Corps and Air Force. The increasing inclusion of women in combat roles, including fighter pilots and infantry positions, reflects the changing gender dynamics in national security. Their stories at the memorial serve as an inspiration for future generations, encouraging more women to join the armed forces.
Question 9.
How does the National War Memorial influence India’s global military recognition?
Answer:
The National War Memorial enhances India’s diplomatic and military standing. International dignitaries visiting the site strengthen defense partnerships and acknowledge India’s military achievements. The memorial also recognizes India’s peacekeeping missions under the United Nations, reinforcing its image as a responsible global power. Additionally, by commemorating military history, it showcases India’s commitment to honoring its soldiers, inspiring respect worldwide.
Question 10.
How does the National War Memorial uphold the concept of martyrdom in Indian military tradition?
Answer:
The concept of martyrdom in Indian military tradition dates back centuries, from ancient warriors like Chhatrapati Shivaji’s army to modern-day soldiers like Colonel Santosh Babu (Galwan conflict, 2020). The National War Memorial ensures that this legacy is preserved for future generations. It reminds citizens that the spirit of self-sacrifice is deeply ingrained in India’s military history, fostering national pride and respect for the armed forces.
A Homage to Our Brave Soldiers Extract Based Questions and Answers
Read the given extracts and answer the questions that follow:
1. Our visit to the National War Memorial began with our teacher explaining that even after Independence, India has had to fight many wars to protect herself, and the freedom and security we enjoy today is because of the many brave men and women who have served in the Indian Armed Forces over decades. Sadly, she said, war always takes its toll, and therefore, many brave soldiers have had to sacrifice their lives for the country even after our Independence in 1947.
This is what makes monuments like the National War Memorial extremely important,-so that we should never forget the cost of freedom. We are aware, always, of the pain and horrors of war. We learnt that each brick of the memorial is called a tablet, and it bears the names of soldiers who fought for India and made the supreme sacrifice in different wars from 1947 till date, including the Indo-China conflict of 1962, the Indo Pak Wars in 1965 & 1971 and the Kargil War in 1999. There are 29,000 tablets on which more than 26,000 names of fallen soldiers have been etched.
Question i.
Why is the National War Memorial considered an important monument?
(a) It serves as a tourist attraction
(b) It helps people remember the sacrifices made for India’s freedom and security
(c) It is the oldest war memorial in the world
(d) It showcases India’s military weapons
Answer:
(b) It helps people remember the sacrifices made for India’s freedom and security
Question ii.
Fill in the blanks appropriately.
The National War Memorial contains _____ tablets on which more than 26,000 names of fallen soldiers are etched.
Answer:
29,000
Question iii.
State whether the following statement is true or false.
The National War Memorial only commemorates soldiers who fought before India’s Independence in 1947.
Answer:
False
Question iv.
What does each brick of the National War Memorial represent?
Answer:
Each brick, called a tablet, bears the name of a soldier who sacrificed their life for India.
2. It was heartening to know that our government has recognised the sacrifice of brave soldiers. Our teacher told us about the 21 bravehearts who were awarded the Param Vir Chakra (PVC), India’s highest wartime gallantry medal, for their service to, the nation. She also told us about Maha Vir Chakra (MVC), Kirti Chakra (KC), Vir Chakra (VrC), and Shaurya Chakra (SC).
Major Somnath Sharma was posthumously awarded India’s first PVC in the Battle of Badgam in 1947. Later some more PVCs were awarded for exceptional gallantry during the India China Conflict of 1962, and the India-Pakistan War of 1965. Besides, a PVC was also awarded for service during the UN Peace Keeping Operations in Congo.
Question i.
Why was Major Somnath Sharma awarded the Param Vir Chakra (PVC)?
(a) For his role in the Kargil War
(b) For his bravery in the Battle of Badgam in 1947
(c) For leading the UN Peacekeeping mission in Congo
(d) For his service during the Indo-China Conflict of 1962
Answer:
(b) For his bravery in the Battle of Badgam in 1947
Question ii.
Fill in the blanks appropriately.
The _______ is India’s highest wartime gallantry medal.
Answer:
Param Vir Chakra (PVC)
Question iii.
State whether the following statement is true or false.
The Param Vir Chakra has only been awarded for battles fought within India.
Answer:
False
Question iv.
How many soldiers have been awarded the Param Vir Chakra (PVC)?
Answer:
21 soldiers have been awarded the Param Vir Chakra (PVC).
3. In the 1971 war, some of the heroes who were awarded the PVC (posthumously) include Lance Naik Albert Ekka, Flying Officer Nirmal Jit Singh Sekhon, Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal, and Major Hoshiar Singh. Some Navy personnel including Captain Mahendra Nath Mulla were also awarded MVC for their exemplary courage and leadership.
Then the teacher shared with us the citation of Param Vir Chakra awardee Lance Naik Albert Ekka. It touched my heart and also motivated me. We were awestruck and humbled by his bravery. I aspire to be courageous like him when I join the army!
Question i.
Which of the following Param Vir Chakra (PVC) awardees fought in the 1971 war?
(a) Major Somnath Sharma
(b) Flying Officer Nirmal Jit Singh Sekhon
(c) Captain Mahendra Nath Mulla
(d) Naik Jadunath Singh
Answer:
(b) Flying Officer Nirmal Jit Singh Sekhon
Question ii.
Fill in the blanks appropriately.
Lance Naik Albert Ekka was awarded the _______ for his bravery in the 1971 war.
Answer:
Param Vir Chakra (PVC)
Question iii.
State whether the following statement is true or false.
Captain Mahendra Nath Mulla was awarded the Param Vir Chakra (PVC) for his service in the Navy.
Answer:
False
Question iv.
Name any two soldiers who were awarded the PVC posthumously in the 1971 war.
Answer:
Lance Naik Albert Ekka and Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal.
4. The National War Memorial now includes Amar Jawan Jyoti in the obelisk, which is surrounded by four Chakras. During the inauguration, the Prime Minister lit a new flame to commemorate the fallen heroes. Later, the old flame at India Gate was also merged with the new flame at the National War Memorial. Here is a picture of the new Amar Jawan Jyoti if you haven’t seen it.
You can see the obelisk surrounded by wreaths that have been placed as a mark of respect. The lighting design is planned in such a way that it transforms the monument’s landscape as sunlight changes from dawn to dusk. It truly is a majestic site that filled me with pride for our nation. I was also overwhelmed by the interminable flame as a metaphor for eternal stories of courage and valour.
Question i.
What significant change was made to the Amar Jawan Jyoti at India Gate?
(a) It was relocated to the Rashtrapati Bhavan
(b) It was extinguished permanently
(c) It was merged with the new flame at the National War Memorial
(d) It was replaced with an electronic flame
Answer:
(c) It was merged with the new flame at the National War Memorial
Question ii.
Fill in the blanks appropriately.
The _______ at the National War Memorial is surrounded by four Chakras.
Answer:
obelisk
Question iii.
State whether the following statement is true or false.
The lighting design of the National War Memorial remains the same throughout the day without any changes.
Answer:
False
Question iv.
What does the interminable flame at the National War Memorial symbolize?
Answer:
It symbolizes eternal stories of courage and valour.
5. The National War Memorial consists of four concentric circles. Which are known as Amar Chakra, Veerta Chakra, Tyag Chakra and Raksha Chakra around a 15 -metre-tall central obelisk with the eternal flame-the Amar Jawan Jyoti, It also houses bronze and stone murals and graphic panels. Isn’t it amazing!
The innermost circle represents the Amar Chakra, also known as the ‘Circle of Immortality’. This has the Obelisk with Eternal Flame. The Amar Jawan Jyoti flame symbolises the immortality of the spirit of fallen soldiers with the assurance that the nation will never forget their sacrifice.
Question i.
What does the Amar Chakra at the National War Memorial represent?
(a) The bravery of soldiers
(b) The sacrifices made by soldiers
(c) The protection provided by the armed forces
(d) The immortality of the spirit of fallen soldiers
Answer:
(d) The immortality of the spirit of fallen soldiers
Question ii.
Fill in the blanks appropriately.
The National War Memorial consists of four concentric circles known as _______, _______, ______, and _______.
Answer:
Amar Chakra, Veerta Chakra, Tyag Chakra, and Raksha Chakra
Question iii.
State whether the following statement is true or false.
The Amar Jawan Jyoti at the National War Memorial represents the temporary remembrance of soldiers.
Answer:
False
Question iv.
What is the height of the central obelisk at the National War Memorial?
Answer:
15 metres
6. The outermost circle represents the Raksha Chakra, which is also known as the ‘Circle of Protection’. In this chakra the row of trees is a reassurance to the citizens of the country about their safety against any threat. Each tree represents the soldiers who ensure the territorial integrity of the nation.
We spent the whole day, from morning to evening, at the National War Memorial and the surrounding areas, marked by majestic lawns and grand buildings of Kartavyapath. We were immersed in the ambience that was solemn and a reminder of what a free nation could achieve. The overall environment created an emotive experience that was visually inspiring. I felt as if I had developed a bond with the place.
I learnt a lot, but I also have to admit that the various discourses during the day brought tears to my eyes. It was sad to think about the massive devastation and loss of life caused by wars. It motivated me to live a life worthy of the sacrifices of our heroes.
Question i.
What does the Raksha Chakra at the National War Memorial symbolize?
(a) The bravery of soldiers
(b) The protection and safety of the nation
(c) The history of wars fought by India
(d) The sacrifices made by martyrs
Answer:
(b) The protection and safety of the nation
Question ii.
Fill in the blanks appropriately.
Each tree in the Raksha Chakra represents the _____ who ensure the territorial integrity of the nation.
Answer:
soldiers
Question iii.
State whether the following statement is true or false.
The visit to the National War Memorial was an uninspiring experience for the narrator.
Answer:
False
Question iv.
What was the narrator’s emotional reaction to the visit?
Answer:
The narrator was deeply moved, felt a bond with the place, and was motivated to live a life worthy of the soldiers’ sacrifices.
7. It was such a pleasure to receive your letter. I enjoyed reading your experience of the visit to the National War Memorial in Delhi, as well as your observations and feelings during the visit. You really have an eye for detail, and being the sensitive person that you are, you have been able to capture the essence of the emotions associated with this’ memorial.
I was happy to hear that you got an opportunity to visit the National War Memorial. I have heard a lot about it. Some people mlght see a war memorial as just a monument, statue, an edifice to celebrate our war heroes or victory and commemorate those who lost their lives or got injured in the war. In my view, it is also an expression of deep gratitude for the supreme sacrifice made by our brave soldiers defending the sovereignty and integrity of the country. I feel motivated and I am seriously thinking of joining the Armed Forces to serve my motherland.
Question i.
According to the letter, what does the writer believe a war memorial represents?
(a) A place to celebrate war victories
(b) A tribute to brave soldiers and their sacrifices
(c) A historical monument with statues
(d) A reminder of past conflicts
Answer:
(b) A tribute to brave soldiers and their sacrifices
Question ii.
Fill in the blanks appropriately.
The writer feels _______ after reading about the visit to the National War Memorial and is seriously considering joining the Armed Forces.
Answer:
motivated
Question iii.
State whether the following statement is true or false.
The writer thinks that a war memorial is just a monument to celebrate victories.
Answer:
False (The writer sees it as an expression of deep gratitude for the sacrifices of soldiers.)
Question iv.
Why does the writer feel inspired after reading about the visit to the National War Memorial?
Answer:
The writer feels a deep sense of gratitude for the soldiers’ sacrifices and is inspired to join the Armed Forces to serve the country.
A Homage to Our Brave Soldiers Extra Questions for Practice
Read the given extract and answer the questions that follow:
1. I also feel it is our duty to periodically visit such places to honour our valiant soldiers, who have made great sacrifices for us. Their sacrifices enable us to walk freely in our country without fear of enemy threats. It is nice of your teacher and school to arrange this visit to give you all a chance to learn about India’s heroes and also pay your respect to them. The idea of your class to make a presentation at the school and make everyone a part of your experience is wonderful! Best of luck for your presentation, I hope it goes well and motivates the school students to join the Indian Armed Forces.
Your letter has reminded me of a time when we visited the war memorial in our city. While visiting one of Chandigarh’s gardens, we saw a lot of activity around the Bougainvillea Garden in Sector 3. As we approached the garden, we saw people offering flowers and prayers. We joined the group out of curiosity and quickly realised that they were all there to pay respect to the soldiers at the War Memorial located in the heart of the garden.
Question i.
What does the writer suggest as a way to honour soldiers?
(a) By arranging school trips to different places
(b) By periodically visiting war memorials and paying respects
(c) By celebrating war victories with grand ceremonies
(d) By joining the Armed Forces compulsorily
Question ii.
Fill in the blanks appropriately.
The writer appreciates the school’s initiative to arrange a visit to the National War Memorial and believes that such experiences help students to ______ .
Question iii.
State whether the following statement is true or false.
The writer discourages students from joining the Armed Forces.
Question iv.
Where did the writer see people paying respects to soldiers in Chandigarh?
Short Answer type Questions
Question 1.
How does the portrayal of Lance Naik Albert Ekka’s bravery at the memorial inspire citizens?
Question 2.
Why do you think the Tyag Chakra is named the ‘Circle of Sacrifice’? What message does it convey?
Question 3.
What do the bronze murals at the Veerta Chakra represent? How do they help visitors understand the history of India’s military achievements?
Question 4.
Why do you think trees are used in the Raksha Chakra? How does this design choice contribute to the memorial’s message?
Question 5.
How does the National War Memorial help in educating younger generations about India’s military history?
Question 6.
What values can individuals learn from the soldiers commemorated at the National War Memorial?
Long Answer type Questions
Question 1.
Why is the Kargil War (1999) a significant part of the National War Memorial?
Question 2.
How are paramilitary forces honoured at the National War Memorial?
Question 3.
How does the memorial promote unity among Indian citizens?
Question 4.
What role do inscriptions and murals play in the memorial’s storytelling?
Question 5.
How does the National War Memorial serve as a guardian of India’s military history?