Begum Pasha Shah: A Trailblazer in Indian Military History
Begum Pasha Shah etched her name in history as the first Muslim woman to join the Women’s Auxiliary Corps (WAC) in India.
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This passion, coupled with the encouragement of British political officer Sir Basil Gould, led him to join the Indian Air Force Volunteer Reserve (IAFVR) in 1940, becoming the first and only pilot in his family.
The IAFVR trained pilots in stages. Paljor, part of the 5th Course, began his journey in Lahore in November 1940 with basic training. After four months, the group moved to Ambala for flying school. There, they honed their skills on Tiger Moth biplanes before advancing to more complex aircraft like the Hawker Audax and Westland Wapiti. August 1941 saw Paljor participating in a training trip to Karachi for Air Traffic Control and navigation. He further diversified his training with tactical exercises in Jullundur, including dive bombing, interceptions, and reconnaissance.
Early flying training in the IAF was demanding, with many not completing the course. Lacking radios in training aircraft, pilots relied solely on compasses and maps for navigation. Despite the challenges, Paljor persevered and earned his wings in September 1941. He was assigned to No. 1 Squadron IAF, one of the first to be equipped with the new Lysander II aircraft.
Tragically, flying a new and unfamiliar aircraft proved risky. On December 20, 1941, Paljor became the first pilot to lose his life flying the Lysander. The cause was determined to be a landing undershoot. While his observer escaped with minor injuries, they later left flying duties. News of the Crown Prince’s passing brought condolences from the Viceroy of India and the British government. Paljor’s remains were flown back to Sikkim for a cremation filled with honours.
Pilot Officer Paljor Namgyal’s story serves as a testament to the dedication displayed by individuals from across the Commonwealth during the Second World War. It also highlights the dangers faced by early aviators and the sacrifices made by those who took to the skies in service of their nations.
Credit for the story of Prince Paljor Namgyal: Tenzin C Tashi
To remember the service and sacrifice of those from the Buddhist faith in the Armed Forces, the Royal British Legion has made a new addition to its range of wooden tributes. A Buddhist poppy tribute is now available at: Tributes | Buy a Poppy | Poppy Shop UK
Begum Pasha Shah etched her name in history as the first Muslim woman to join the Women’s Auxiliary Corps (WAC) in India.
Gaje Ghale was born on 1 August 1918 in Barpak, Gorkha District, Nepal. Barpak, a small village nestled in the rugged terrains of the Himalayas, is in a region that has produced some of the most esteemed soldiers to have served in the armed forces.
Records indicate that no Victoria Crosses were awarded to Indian soldiers specifically for their actions at Monte Cassino during The Second World War. However, Indian soldiers played a significant role in the gruelling battles for Monte Cassino, with many displaying exceptional bravery. One soldier, Sepoy Kamal Ram of the 8th Punjab Regiment, did receive the Victoria Cross for his actions at the Garigliano River in Italy in May 1944.
The George Cross (GC) is the highest civilian gallantry award given in the United Kingdom and the Commonwealth.
The first of the Trust’s projects is the South Asian Heritage Month (SAHM), which first took place in 2020 and runs from the 18th of July to the 17th of August each year.
SAHM seeks to commemorate, mark and celebrate South Asian cultures, histories, and communities.
It seeks to understand the diverse heritage and cultures that continue to link the UK with South Asia.
© South Asian Heritage Trust | All Rights Reserved
