Indian soldiers who took part in World War I will be honoured by the United Kingdom through a a series of events commemorating the 100th anniversary of the conflict this year.
The British High Commission along with United Service Institution of India have planned a series of events to commemorate Indian involvement in the war which began in 1914.
"One million Indian soldiers fought the war and over 70,000 Indian servicemen died. We intend to honour their memory this year with an important series of events," UK High Commissioner to India James Bevan told reporters here today.
Also Read
"For us, this will be a commemoration not a celebration. Our aim is to show respect and gratitude to those who died and to their families, to ensure that today's young people learn the facts and the lessons of that conflict and to promote a common resolve among all nations involved in WWI to ensure a peaceful and just world for future generations," Bevan said.
British High Commission officials said the commemorative events to be organised in the UK, India and around the world will see the participation of representatives from every country whose soldiers took part in the historic war.
Besides the role of army men, the Indian Navy also played a significant role during the war. Indians also served in the Army Flying Corps and several won military honours including the highest military honour, Victoria Cross, they said.
Between 2014-18, the British government plans to honour the memory of all who participated in the war irrespective of the side they fought on, the High Commissioner said.
One of the major commemorative event would be organised at the British High Commissioner's residence here on October 30 in which leading dignitaries and representatives from India, UK and other countries involved in WWI will be invited.
"A programme to honour the soldiers who won Victoria Crosses will also be held. A total of 11 VCs were awarded to soldiers hailing from United India - six from today's India, three from now Pakistan and two Nepalese nationals," Bevan said.
