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Britain to honour WW-I Indian soldiers
Tribune News Service

New Delhi, March 14
Indian soldiers who fought World War I (1914-1918) will be honoured by the United Kingdom through a series of events commemorating the 100th anniversary of the battle this year.

The British High Commission, along with the United Service Institution (USI) of India, has planned a series of events. One of the biggest events will be at the British High Commissioner's residence here on October 30. Leading dignitaries and representatives from India, UK and other countries involved in WW-I will be invited.

Said High Commissioner of Britain to India, Sir James Bevan, "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.”

Events will be organised in the UK, India and around the world and will see the participation of representatives from every country whose soldiers took part in the historic war. The tribute will include publication of regimental diaries.

“This will be a commemoration, not a celebration. Our aim is to show respect and gratitude to those who died and to their families and 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 WW-I to ensure a peaceful and just world for future generations,” the High Commissioner said.

Besides the Indian Army, the Navy also played a significant role in the war. Indians also served in the Army Flying Corps and several won military honours, including the highest military honour, Victoria Cross, an official said.