The Battle of Basantar, a crucial engagement in the Shakargarh sector during the Indo-Pakistani War of 1971, witnessed an act of extraordinary courage and sacrifice by Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal of the Indian Army's 17 Poona Horse regiment. On December 16, 1971, his actions not only decimated Pakistani forces but also helped turn the tide of battle, solidifying his place as a national hero.

In December 1971, as tensions escalated between India and Pakistan, the Indian Army was supporting the Bangladeshi resistance movement. The 17 Poona Horse, part of the 47th Infantry Brigade, was tasked with establishing a bridgehead across the Basantar River, a strategically important objective in the Shakargarh sector. By the evening of December 15th, the brigade had achieved its objective, but the area was heavily mined, hindering the deployment of tanks.

Early on December 16th, Pakistani armor launched a counter-attack at Jarpal, targeting the Poona Horse. Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal, despite being in a different squadron, volunteered to assist, understanding the gravity of the situation. As Khetarpal and his troops advanced, they faced intense fire from enemy strongholds and anti-tank gun positions. Undeterred, they retaliated fiercely, destroying enemy tanks and capturing gun nests.

During the ensuing battle, Khetarpal's troop commander was killed, leaving him in charge. He continued the attack,破ing through to the 'B' Squadron position just as the enemy began to retreat after an initial probing attack. Fueled by the heat of battle, Khetarpal pursued the withdrawing tanks, successfully destroying one.

The Pakistani forces regrouped and launched a counter-attack. Khetarpal, with only two remaining tanks in his command, faced the brunt of the enemy assault. A fierce tank battle ensued, and Khetarpal's bravery shone through as he fought relentlessly, destroying several Pakistani Patton tanks.

Even after his tank was hit and set ablaze, and severely wounded, Khetarpal refused to abandon his position. Ignoring orders to withdraw, he famously declared, "No, Sir, I will not abandon my tank. My main gun is still working, and I will get these bastards!". He continued to engage the enemy, destroying another tank before finally succumbing to enemy fire.

Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal's extraordinary courage and selflessness in the face of overwhelming odds significantly hampered the Pakistani advance. It is believed that he destroyed between 7 and 10 Pakistani tanks during the battle. His actions that day played a crucial role in India's victory in the Battle of Basantar and the wider 1971 war.

For his exceptional valor and sacrifice, Arun Khetarpal was posthumously awarded the Param Vir Chakra, India's highest military decoration. He was the youngest recipient of the award. His legacy continues to inspire generations of soldiers. His tank, "Famagusta," is preserved at the Armed Corps Center and School in Ahmednagar as a symbol of his courage and dedication.

Even a Pakistani Brigadier, Naser, acknowledged Khetarpal's bravery. In a chance meeting years later with Khetarpal's father, Brigadier Naser revealed that he was the one who fired the shot that destroyed Arun's tank, and sought forgiveness. This poignant encounter underscores the respect that Khetarpal's courage earned, even from his enemies.