The battle drew its significance from the success of the solitary company of 4th Battalion, Kumaon Regiment, led by Major Somnath Sharma,[15][16] in halting the momentum of advancing tribal "Lashkars",[6] though being heavily outnumbered.

The Indian Air Force served as an accompaniment to the army's efforts in the battle, contributing to the majority of the casualties inflicted on the Pakistani lashkars.

[17] The battle took place at a point when Indian troops had just begun their fly-in into Srinagar airfield during the opening stages of the war.

At that moment, only a weak brigade of Indian troops, withdrawn from refugee protection duties in Punjab and hastily airlifted, stood between groups of tribal Lashkars advancing towards Srinagar.

[8]: 51–69 Brigadier L.P. Sen, newly arrived commander of 161 Infantry Brigade decided to send a strong fighting patrol to the hills overseeing Badgam village 5 km west of it.

Sharma correctly surmised the movement in Badgam village was meant to divert attention while the attack would come in from the west.

Sharma's company was soon surrounded by the enemy from three sides and sustained heavy casualties from the ensuing mortar bombardment.

Sharma realized the importance of holding onto his position as both the city of Srinagar and the airport would be vulnerable if it were lost.

"Spurred by his gallantry, Sepoy Dewan Singh Danu attacked the enemy fearlessly before losing his life.

[12][23] Afterwards, 1 Punjab recaptured Badgam and secured the airfield and the remaining Lashkar tribal forces had to abandon their advance as heavy casualties occurred on their side.

[8]: 75  The Pakistani raiders made no attempt to exploit the vulnerabilities that night and move to the airfield or to Srinagar city.

It is surmised that the incapacitation of the leader, the heavy losses, and reports of movement of 1 Punjab into the area had caused the Lashkar raiders to misjudge the tactical situation.