Indian History has witnessed a plethora of remarkable battles, making it a crucial topic for the UPSC exams. From ancient times to modern eras, the subcontinent has been the backdrop for countless conflicts. Some notable battles include the First Battle of Panipat, the Battle of Plassey, and the Battle of the Ten Kings. These engagements serve as pivotal moments in India’s history, often becoming exam questions for IAS aspirants.

1. In 326 BCE, Alexander the Great faced off against Indian King Porus in what is now Pakistan at the Battle of the Hydaspes. This clash ended with a triumph for Alexander, but it also marked the conclusion of his conquests in India.
2. The Battle of Kalinga in 261 BCE saw Mauryan Emperor Ashoka pitted against the kingdom of Kalinga in eastern India. Ashoka emerged victorious, leading to the annexation of Kalinga. This event had a profound impact on Ashoka’s reign and the spread of Buddhism in India.
3. In 1526, the Battle of Panipat took place, where the Sultanate of Delhi confronted the Afghan ruler Babur. This pivotal battle led to the establishment of the Mughal Empire in India.
4. The Siege of Bajaur, which occurred in 1547, was a significant military campaign by Mughal Emperor Humayun against Afghan ruler Sher Shah Suri. It resulted in the recapture of the Bajaur fortress.
5. In 1565, the Battle of Talikota unfolded, with the Deccan sultanates clashing with the Vijayanagara Empire. This battle led to the defeat and fragmentation of the Vijayanagara Empire.
6. The Battle of Plassey in 1757 was a historic confrontation between the British East India Company and the Nawab of Bengal. It marked the beginning of British colonial rule in India.
7. The Siege of Lucknow, occurring during 1857-1858, was a critical episode in the Indian Rebellion of 1857, ultimately resulting in the recapture of Lucknow by British forces.
8. In 1897, the Battle of Saragarhi witnessed a small detachment of Sikh soldiers valiantly defending against Afghan tribesmen, leaving an indelible mark as a heroic last stand.
9. The Battle of Imphal in 1944 stands out as a significant Allied victory during World War II, ranking as one of the largest and most momentous battles fought in India.
10. The Indo-Pakistani War of 1971 was a major conflict between India and Pakistan, ultimately leading to the independence of Bangladesh and the defeat of Pakistan.

Read Also: 10 Major Facts on Indian Constituent Assembly