Major Bhupinder Singh was born on 19 September 1928 in Punjab. He was the son of Shri Sajan Singh and was commissioned into Hodson’s Horse, also known as the 4th Horse, on 11 December 1949.
During the 1965 India–Pakistan War, he commanded B Squadron of 4th Horse. His squadron was tasked with cutting the enemy’s line of retreat along the Gadgor–Phillora road and providing fire support for the Indian attack on Phillora.
Between 11 and 19 September 1965, Major Bhupinder Singh led his squadron in the battles of Phillora and Sodreke. His leadership and skilful deployment contributed to the destruction of enemy tanks and equipment. Despite repeated hits on his own tank, he remained in command and encouraged his men to continue fighting. When the regiment’s commander was forced to abandon his tank, Major Singh also took charge of leading the regiment.
On 19 September, during the battle of Sodreke, his tank was hit and caught fire. While evacuating the tank, he sustained severe burns. He was evacuated but later succumbed to his injuries. For his gallantry, leadership and devotion to duty, he was posthumously awarded the Maha Vir Chakra.