NCERT Solutions Class 7 English Unit 5 Bravehearts Chapter 13 A Homage to Our Brave Soldiers (Tribute Essay)

Question. Homage means 'something that is said or done to show respect publicly for someone'. Whom should every Indian pay homage to?
Answer: Every Indian must pay homage to the soldiers who gave their lives defending the country. We do this by remembering them, honouring their sacrifice, and speaking with pride about their bravery.
In simple words: Soldiers died to protect our country. We should remember them, respect what they did, and tell others how brave they were.

Exam Tip: When answering questions about homage, always mention the specific group (soldiers) and include at least two ways we show respect (remembering, honouring their sacrifice).

Question. Work in pairs to complete the table by writing any three ways in which we can celebrate the victories and honour the sacrifices of the soldiers.
Answer:

Exam Tip: Any three valid ways from either column (or combined) are acceptable. Focus on actions that show public recognition and respect.

Question. Complete the table given below. An example has been done for you.
Answer:

Exam Tip: Match each soldier's name with the correct war year and award. Pay attention to which award was given - Param Vir Chakra is the highest, followed by Maha Vir Chakra.

Question. Find the paragraph(s) and sentences in the text that evoke the feelings given below.
Answer:
1. Feeling of Wonder: Paragraph 1 (Page 180) - After independence, our country had to fight several wars to protect its borders, territorial integrity, and its people. This made me wonder, who were these brave Indian People.
2. Heartening: Paragraph 6 (Page 181) - It was heartening to know that our government has recognised the sacrifice of brave soldiers.
3. Sense of Motivation: Paragraph 9 (Page 182) - It touched my heart and also motivated him.
4. Pride: Paragraph 12 (Page 183) - It truly is a majestic site filled me with pride for our nation.
5. Visually Inspiring: Paragraph 19 (Page 185) - The over-all environment created an emotive experience that was visually inspiring.
6. Sadness: Paragraph 20 (Page 185) - It was sad to think about the massive devastation and loss of life caused by wars.
7. Gratitude: Paragraph 22 (Page 185) - I am going to give a presentation on the story of Major Padmapani Achaiya, who fought for India in the 1999 Kargil War and was awarded Maha Vir Chakra.
8. Inspiration: Paragraph 25 (Page 187) - I have written a long letter as I could not help sharing this inspiring experience to you.
In simple words: Different parts of the text make us feel different emotions. Some parts make us proud of our soldiers, while others make us sad thinking about the cost of war.

Exam Tip: When finding sentences that evoke feelings, always cite the paragraph number and page reference. Include the exact sentence to support your answer.

Question. Which is India's highest gallantry award?
Answer: India's highest gallantry award is the Param Vir Chakra (PVC).
In simple words: The Param Vir Chakra is the biggest award India gives to soldiers who show the most bravery.

Exam Tip: Remember the full name and abbreviation. This is a direct factual question - memorise the ranking of gallantry awards.

Question. How would Ananda feel after reading this letter?
Answer: Ananda would find joy in reading the letter and would enjoy learning about Soumya's experience at the National War Memorial in Delhi.
In simple words: Ananda would be happy to read about Soumya's visit and all the exciting things she saw there.

Exam Tip: Base your answer on the characters' relationship and Ananda's interests mentioned in the text (like stamp collecting and learning from Soumya).

Question. Do you think Soumya enjoyed writing this letter? Why or why not?
Answer: Yes, Soumya enjoyed writing this letter. She was very excited to share her inspiring experience with her friend Ananda.
In simple words: Soumya was happy to write the letter because she wanted to tell Ananda about the wonderful things she saw at the war memorial.

Exam Tip: Look for clues in the text that show a character's emotion. Phrases like "I could not help sharing" indicate enthusiasm and enjoyment.

Question. Why was Ananda reminded of the poem 'Pushp ki Abhilasha'?
Answer: While visiting Bougainvillea Garden in Sector 3 at Chandigarh, Ananda observed people placing flowers and prayers in honour of the soldiers at the War Memorial. This sight of people making offerings brought to her mind the poem 'Pushp ki Abhilasha'.
In simple words: Ananda saw people offering flowers at the war memorial, which reminded her of the poem about flowers and sacrifice.

Exam Tip: Connect the visual action (offering flowers) with the literary reference (the poem). Show how the real-life scene links to the text studied.

Question. How does Soumya's letter help Ananda in pursuing her hobby?
Answer: Ananda's favourite hobby is collecting stamps, which is called philately. The envelopes of Soumya's letters had beautiful stamps that made Ananda's collection richer and more valuable. In this way, Soumya's letters supported Ananda in pursuing her stamp-collecting hobby.
In simple words: Soumya's letters had pretty stamps on them. Ananda likes collecting stamps, so these stamps helped her hobby grow.

Exam Tip: Identify the specific hobby (philately - stamp collecting) and show how Soumya's letters directly benefit this hobby through the stamps on the envelopes.

Question. Ananda is inspired to act after reading the letter from Soumya. What actions does she intend to take up?
Answer:

Exam Tip: The question asks what Ananda "intends" to do - these are her planned or future actions inspired by Soumya's letter, not things she has already done.

Question 1. 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 filed me with pride for our nation. I was also overwhelmed by the interminable flame as a metaphor for eternal stories of courage and valour.
Answer:
(i) Complete the analogy with a word from the extract. flame: valour:: wreath: ______________
homage
(ii) How does the lighting design make the monument visually appealing?
The lighting changes the monument's landscape as sunlight shifts from dawn to dusk. This makes the monument visually appealing.
(iii) State whether the following sentence is a fact or an opinion. It truly is a majestic site…
An opinion.
(iv) What does the everlasting flame suggest?
The everlasting flame suggests that the stories of courage and valour of our soldiers are also everlasting.
(v) Choose the correct option to complete the sentence.
Admiring
In simple words: The monument is beautiful and has lights that change. The flame burning forever means we remember soldiers' bravery always.

Exam Tip: For analogy questions, find the relationship between the first pair and apply it to find the missing word. For fact vs opinion, look for subjective language like "truly", "I felt", etc.

Question 2. 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 might see a war memorial as just a monument, statue, an edifice to celebrate a war or victory and commemorate those who sacrificed 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.
Answer:
(i) Choose a line from the extract which shows that Ananda was aware about the National War Memorial.
The line is, "I have heard a lot about it."
(ii) What might be the most likely reason for people to consider a war memorial as a monument?
People consider the War Memorial as a monument because it is an expression of deep gratitude for the supreme sacrifice made by soldiers defending the sovereignty and integrity of our country.
(iii) Fill in the blank with a suitable word from the extract. We conduct special competitions at school to ______________ our Independence day.
celebrate
(iv) Select a phrase from the extract showing that Ananda is expressing an opinion.
The phrase is 'in my view'.
(v) Complete the sentence with a suitable reason. Ananda refers to the sacrifice of soldiers as 'supreme' sacrifice because ______________
The soldiers gave their lives defending the country.
In simple words: Ananda thinks war memorials are important because they show we are grateful to soldiers who died protecting our nation.

Exam Tip: Look for signal words that show opinion ("in my view", "I think", "in my opinion") versus fact. Always cite the exact phrase or line from the passage.

Question. What is the significance of the National War Memorial?
Answer: The National War Memorial tells the stories of brave soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice while defending the country. It serves as a place where we remember and honour their contributions to our nation's freedom and security.
In simple words: The war memorial helps us remember the soldiers who died to protect our country.

Exam Tip: When answering about significance, explain not just what the monument is, but why it matters - focus on its role in honouring soldiers and educating people.

Question. Lance Naik Albert Ekka is an example of selflessness, determination, and exceptional courage. Elaborate.
Answer: Lance Naik Albert Ekka showed selflessness by charging the enemy bunker without caring about his own safety. His determination was evident when he charged the bunker, killed two soldiers, and silenced the light machine gun. His exceptional courage was displayed because even though he was wounded, he continued fighting alongside his comrades with complete bravery.
In simple words: Albert Ekka was brave because he attacked the enemy even though it was dangerous. He kept fighting even when he was hurt.

Exam Tip: For character elaboration questions, provide three separate examples - one for each quality mentioned. Use evidence from the text to support each point.

Question. Explain how the National War Memorial and Museum app will be helpful in spreading awareness about war heroes.
Answer: Through the National War Memorial and Museum app, people can learn how many individuals laid down their lives while defending the country. This digital platform makes information about war heroes accessible to everyone, helping spread awareness and appreciation for their sacrifices far and wide.
In simple words: The app lets people learn about heroes who died for the country. It helps more people know about these brave soldiers.

Exam Tip: Explain how technology (the app) serves as a tool to reach more people and make information easily available compared to visiting the physical memorial.

Question. Why is it our duty to pay homage to our brave soldiers?
Answer: These soldiers gave their lives so that we can live in peace and freedom. Therefore, it is our responsibility to honour them and show our gratitude for their ultimate sacrifice.
In simple words: Soldiers died so we can be safe and live happy lives. We must say thank you to them for what they did.

Exam Tip: Answer duty-based questions by explaining the cause-and-effect relationship - soldiers sacrificed for us, therefore we owe them respect and remembrance.

Question. What is the main idea of this text? How does it justify the title, 'A Homage to our Brave Soldiers'?
Answer: The main idea of this text is to celebrate and draw inspiration from the brave deeds of our soldiers. The title 'A Homage to our Brave Soldiers' is justified because the entire text is dedicated to showing respect to soldiers, recounting their achievements, and encouraging readers to honour their memory and follow their example.
In simple words: The text wants us to respect and learn from soldiers. The title fits perfectly because the whole story is about saying thank you to brave soldiers.

Exam Tip: For questions asking you to justify a title, explain how the content of the text matches and supports the title's central message.

Question. Why were the students awestruck and humbled? Explain in your own words.
Answer: The students were awestruck when they learned about the bravery displayed by war heroes. They felt humbled realising that these courageous individuals gave up their lives so that others in the country could live in peace and safety.
In simple words: The students were amazed and moved learning that soldiers died so we could be safe.

Exam Tip: When asked to explain emotions, connect them to the specific cause - what made them feel this way and why those feelings are justified.

Question. Match the prefixes with their meanings and the root words to create a new word in the table given below.
Answer:

Exam Tip: Learn common prefixes and their meanings. Practice matching them with root words to understand how new words are formed.

Question. Now, complete the paragraph by using the new words created in the table.
Answer: Soldiers undergo (i) extraordinary training to prepare for their challenging duties. They learn to (ii) deactivate explosives and handle (iii) undefined equipment with precision. They stand as a powerful force against (iv) anti-social elements, displaying (v) unquestionable bravery. (vi) Ex-service members often share their experiences to inspire new recruits. Their service can continually (vii) redefine the essence of commitment and sacrifice.
In simple words: Soldiers get special training and learn many skills. They work hard and bravely to protect people from bad things. Old soldiers help teach new ones.

Exam Tip: When filling blanks with prefix words, ensure the word fits grammatically and makes sense in context. Read the complete sentence aloud to check.

Question. Find words associated with 'brave' by filling in the missing vowels in the boxes given below.
Answer:
courage, valiant, valour, gallant, fearless, bold, daring, undaunted, heroic
In simple words: These are all words that mean the same thing as brave - they describe people who are not scared and face danger with strength.

Exam Tip: Build a word bank of synonyms for common words like "brave". This helps you use varied vocabulary in your writing and answers.

Question. Fill in the blanks with the correct opposite words of 'brave' from the box.
Answer:
1. Ajay's cowardly refusal to stand up for his friend was disappointing to everyone.
2. The timid child hid behind his mother, too scared to meet the new teacher.
3. Anjali's fear of heights prevented her from climbing the tall ladder.
4. Sushma felt afraid as she entered the dark, abandoned building alone.
In simple words: These words describe people who are not brave - they are scared, shy, or don't want to do brave things.

Exam Tip: Learn pairs of opposite words (antonyms). When filling blanks, check which word fits the context and grammatical structure best.

Question. Read the following sentences from the text and divide them into two parts.
Answer:

Exam Tip: Look for subordinating conjunctions (when, because, though, so that) - they connect the two parts and show the relationship between them.

Question. Combine the following pairs of sentences using suitable subordinating conjunctions given in the box below.
Answer:
1. Wasi burst into tears when he heard the good news.
2. Though Himani was very nervous, she delivered a great presentation.
3. This is the place where I was born.
4. The students performed very well because they studied diligently.
5. Unless you water the plants, they will die.
In simple words: Subordinating conjunctions join two ideas together and show how they connect - by time, reason, condition, or contrast.

Exam Tip: Choose the conjunction that shows the correct relationship between the two sentences. "When" shows time, "because" shows reason, "unless" shows condition, and "though" shows contrast.

Question. Complete the following sentences with suitable main clause or subordinate clause.
Answer:
1. Farheen was late to work because she missed the bus. (Subordinate clause)
2. The dog started barking when it heard a noise outside. (Subordinate clause)
3. She completed the marathon although she was injured. (Subordinate clause)
4. They remained silent (Main clause) while they were hiking in the mountains.
5. Abhishek received a promotion after he completed the important project. (Subordinate clause)
6. She submitted the report (Main clause) before the deadline approached.
7. We waited in the car until the rain stopped (Subordinate clause).
8. The children screamed with joy (Main clause) as the waves rushed to the shore.
In simple words: A complete sentence needs a main clause. You can add a subordinate clause to give more information about when, why, or under what conditions something happens.

Exam Tip: Make sure the completed sentence makes sense and the subordinate clause logically connects to the main clause.

Question. What type of job does Gunjan think the Armed Forces is?
Answer: Gunjan believes the Armed Forces is the most honourable job one can have.
In simple words: Gunjan thinks working in the Armed Forces is the best and most respected job.

Exam Tip: This is a listening comprehension question. Answer in exact words or close paraphrasing from what was heard in the audio.

Question. What feature of the Armed Forces fills Gunjan with pride?
Answer: Wearing the uniform fills Gunjan with pride.
In simple words: Gunjan feels very proud when she wears the Armed Forces uniform.

Exam Tip: Listen carefully for specific details. The answer should be brief and directly address what creates the feeling of pride.

Question. How does the disciplined life of the Armed Forces impact the body and mind, according to Gunjan?
Answer: According to Gunjan, the disciplined life of the Armed Forces impacts the body and mind through regular exercise and training.
In simple words: Gunjan says that exercise and training in the Armed Forces keep your body and mind strong and fit.

Exam Tip: Connect the disciplinary aspect directly to its effects. The answer should show cause and effect clearly.

Question. List any one aspect about a job in the Armed Forces that Gunjan feels helps someone grow.
Answer: New challenges help someone grow in a job in the Armed Forces, according to Gunjan.
In simple words: Gunjan thinks that facing new and difficult tasks in the Armed Forces helps people become stronger and better.

Exam Tip: The question asks for "any one" aspect, so a single valid answer is sufficient. Make your answer specific and clear.

Question. State any two things that Gunjan feels life in the Armed Forces teaches.
Answer: According to Gunjan, life in the Armed Forces teaches loyalty, duty, service, and honesty.
In simple words: Gunjan believes that being in the Armed Forces teaches you to be loyal to your country, do your duty well, serve others, and always be honest.

Exam Tip: The question asks for "any two", but providing more values is acceptable and shows comprehensive understanding from the listening passage.

Question. Work in pairs and identify the different professions displayed in the picture.
Answer: Clockwise from left to right, the professions displayed in the picture are: carpenter, teacher, cricketer, pilot, farmer, chef, dancer, artist, and doctor.
In simple words: The picture shows nine different jobs - people who work with wood, teach in school, play cricket, fly planes, farm land, cook food, dance, paint, and treat sick people.

Exam Tip: When identifying items in a picture, start from a fixed point (like top-left) and move systematically. This ensures you don't miss any professions.

Question. Imagine that you dream of or wish to pursue some of these professions and vocations. Take turns to express this along with a reason. Do not forget to include what preparation would be required to fulfill the dream. Speak about all the given professions and vocations.
Answer:
Student A (Carpenter): I would like to learn carpentry because I enjoy creating beautiful furniture and craft items like designer tables and chairs. I want to open a chain of designer furniture stores worldwide. For this, I would need to learn carpentry skills, understand different types of wood, and develop my design sense.
Student B (Teacher): I dream of working as a teacher because I want to help students learn and grow. Teaching gives me a chance to share knowledge, inspire young minds, and make a difference in their lives. To become a teacher, I would have to complete my education and get a teaching qualification.
Student C (Cricketer): To become a cricketer has been a childhood dream because I love the game and want to represent my country. Playing cricket requires hard work and teamwork. I would need to join a cricket academy, practice regularly, and develop my batting and bowling skills.
Student D (Pilot): I would like to become an Air Force pilot because I want to serve my country and experience flying advanced aircraft. For this, I would have to pass difficult entrance exams, get military training, and meet physical fitness requirements.
Student E (Agricultural Engineer): I would like to become an agricultural engineer because I want to improve farming using modern techniques and help protect the environment. I am interested in organic farming to provide healthy food for everyone. I would need to study agriculture and engineering.
Student F (Chef): It would be great if I could work as a chef because it would let me express my love for cooking and create delicious dishes. For this, I would have to hone my cooking skills, work hard, and continuously learn new recipes and cooking techniques.
Student G (Dancer): I would like to become a classical dancer because I love expressing myself through dance. Classical dance is a beautiful art form, and I want to share its rich tradition with others while staying connected to my culture. I would need to train under a skilled guru and practice daily.
Student H (Artist): One day, I hope to become a famous painter because I love expressing my thoughts and feelings through art. Painting allows me to create beautiful images and share them with others. I would need to study art formally and practise drawing and painting regularly.
Student I (Doctor): One day, I hope to become a doctor. Then I would be able to help people stay healthy and save lives. However, first I would need to study medicine, gain practical experience in hospitals, and dedicate myself to learning about different treatments and procedures.
In simple words: Different people dream of different jobs. Each job needs practice and hard work to succeed. We should study hard and train to reach our dreams.

Exam Tip: Use the given prompts to structure your answer. Always include three elements: the profession, the reason for choosing it, and the preparation needed. This shows complete thinking.

Question. You have read about the sacrifices made by the Armed Forces during war. However, the Armed Forces also play a key role during peace time. Write a letter to your friend sharing how the Armed Forces contribute their service during the times of natural calamities (floods, earthquakes, etc.), infrastructure development (building bridges in remote areas etc.) and for welfare initiatives (medical camps, establishment of libraries, etc.)
Answer:
24, Civil Lines
Kanpur
5 September 2025

Dear Rohan,

I hope this letter finds you in the best of health and spirits. Today, I wanted to share something truly inspiring with you - the incredible contributions our armed forces make beyond the battlefield.

Did you know that during natural calamities like floods, earthquakes, or cyclones, the armed forces are often the first to reach the affected areas? They rescue people, provide food and shelter, and help restore normal life. Their courage and selflessness are truly admirable.

Apart from that, they also build bridges in remote and difficult terrains where even basic transport is a challenge. This helps villagers connect with nearby towns and access schools, hospitals, and markets. It's amazing how they serve the country in so many ways!

The armed forces also organise medical camps in far-off areas where healthcare is not easily available. These camps provide free checkups, medicines, and even minor surgeries. It shows how dedicated they are to the welfare of every citizen.

I really feel proud and grateful for their service. They are true heroes in every sense. I thought of writing to you because I know you'd appreciate this as much as I do.

Take care and write back soon.

Your friend,
Vikram Bhatia
In simple words: Soldiers do many helpful things even when there is no war. They save people in disasters, build roads, and run free health camps for poor people.

Exam Tip: A letter format requires date, greeting, body paragraphs, closing, and signature. Cover all three areas mentioned in the question - natural calamities, infrastructure, and welfare. Use a warm, personal tone appropriate for writing to a friend.

Every Branch of the Armed Forces has a Motto
Answer:

Exam Tip: Learn the mottos and their meanings. These reflect the core values and mission of each armed force branch - good to remember for exams.

Question. India has many other Forces that serve the nation. For example, Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF). Find out about such Forces and discuss with the teacher.
Answer: Yes, India has several other forces apart from the Army, Navy, and Air Force that serve and protect the nation in various ways:

1. CRPF (Central Reserve Police Force) - Maintains law and order, handles internal security, and assists in disaster relief operations.

2. BSF (Border Security Force) - Guards India's international borders and prevents cross-border crimes and smuggling.

3. CISF (Central Industrial Security Force) - Provides security to important government installations, airports, metro systems, and public sector enterprises.

4. ITBP (Indo-Tibetan Border Police) - Protects the border along the India-China border and operates in high-altitude mountainous areas.

5. SSB (Sashastra Seema Bal) - Guards India's borders with Nepal and Bhutan and prevents smuggling and human trafficking.

6. NSG (National Security Guard) - Also known as Black Cats, this elite force handles counter-terrorism and hostage rescue operations.

7. Assam Rifles - One of the oldest paramilitary forces, mainly responsible for maintaining peace in the Northeast region.

8. Coast Guard - Protects India's maritime interests and conducts search and rescue operations at sea.

These forces play crucial roles in keeping India safe and functioning smoothly.
In simple words: India has many police and military forces that work to keep people safe. Some guard borders, some stop crime, and some help during disasters.

Exam Tip: Memorise the full names and main functions of at least 4-5 of these forces. Understanding their specific roles helps you answer questions about national security.

Question. Create a collage capturing the lives and stories of people that inspire us. In groups of four, prepare a collage on a chart paper on any such person and present it in the class.
Answer: Do it yourself - this is a creative activity. Select an inspiring person (could be a historical figure, freedom fighter, scientist, sports player, or community helper), gather images and information about them, and create a visually appealing collage on chart paper showing their achievements and contributions.
In simple words: Choose someone you admire, find pictures and facts about them, and make a nice poster to show the class.

Exam Tip: When making a collage, ensure it is neat, well-organised, and includes key milestones or achievements of the person. A brief written caption explaining why this person inspires you adds value.

Question. Many women have joined the Armed Forces and are serving the nation. Have a discussion in the class with examples.
Answer: Many women have joined the armed forces and are proudly serving the nation with courage and dedication. They work in various roles such as pilots, engineers, doctors, and combat officers, proving their strength and skills alongside men. Their presence in the Army, Navy, and Air Force reflects progress towards gender equality and inspires young girls to dream big. These brave women not only protect the nation during wartime but also contribute significantly during peacetime through disaster relief and community welfare initiatives. Examples include female fighter pilots, army officers leading battalions, and naval personnel commanding ships. Their service demonstrates that bravery and dedication know no gender and that women are equally capable of serving and protecting the country.
In simple words: Many women now work as soldiers, pilots, and officers in the armed forces. They are just as brave and skilled as men. They help protect and serve our country.

Exam Tip: When discussing this topic, cite specific examples of notable women officers or roles. Highlight how their contributions challenge gender stereotypes and strengthen the armed forces.