Description

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Context

PM Modi and President Macron honour Indian soldiers' sacrifices at Mazargues War Cemetery in France, recognizing their contributions in both World Wars.

Role played by Indian soldiers in World War I

Indian soldiers served on diverse fronts during World War I across Europe, Mediterranean, Middle East and Africa. However, they fought mostly against German Empire in the Western Front.

For instance, in the Battle of Neuve Chapelle (1915), the Indian Corps provided half the attacking force.

Ottoman Empire	The 29th Indian Infantry Brigade played a crucial role in the Gallipoli Campaign against the Ottoman Empire in 1915
Middle East	The Siege of Kut (1915-1916) in Mesopotamia saw significant participation from the Indian Army
Africa	27th Bangalore Brigade fought courageously in the Battle of Tanga in 1914

India gained from its participation in world war I in the following way:

Indian army received more than 9000 decorations including Victoria Crosses (Highest military award in the British Empire)
They got exposed to modern warfare thereby increasing their military experience.

However, it is noteworthy to mention India’s losses due to its participation:

Cost of living increased due to inflation.
Several Indian soldiers after returning from the war found themselves jobless.
India’s resources were used to finance the war.
A total of 74187 Indian soldiers lost their life and another 67000 were wounded.

Role played by Indian soldiers in World War II

The decision to make India part of World War II was made without consulting the senior leaders of Indian freedom struggle.
However, as a member of Allied Nations, India sent over 2.5 million soldiers to fight under the British flag against the Axis powers.
During the course of the war, in 1942, Gandhi launched Quit India movement, demanding the end of British rule.
Indian troops were deployed in: Europe – Germany, Italy; Southeast Asia – Japan
By the end of the war, almost 87000 Indian troops lose their lives
However, Subhas Chandra Bose and Indian National Army fought against British with the help of enemies of Britain.

Seventy-five years after Independence, it is time to honour India's immense contribution to the world wars and move it from a footnote in another country's history to the main stage, where it belongs. These were India's wars too.

Sources:

https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-history/pm-modi-war-cemetery-france-world-war-indian-soldiers-9832158/

PRACTICE QUESTION

Q. Where did PM Modi pay tribute to Indian soldiers who fought in the World Wars during his visit to France?

A) Normandy American Cemetery

B) Mazargues War Cemetery

C) Arlington National Cemetery

D) Thiepval Memorial

Answer: (b)

Explanation:

PM Narendra Modi, along with French President Emmanuel Macron, visited the Mazargues War Cemetery in Marseille to honor Indian soldiers who fought in the World Wars. The cemetery is a significant memorial site for Indian troops who served and sacrificed their lives, particularly in World War I and II, strengthening the historical ties between India and France.