France & Belgium

Indian Soldiers in France and Belgium – The Western Front (1914–1918)

The First World War (1914–1918) marked a turning point in world history, reshaping nations and global politics. Although India was under British rule, it played a vital role in supporting the Allied forces, contributing significantly in men, material, and morale. Nearly 1.4 million Indian soldiers served overseas, of whom around 74,000 made the supreme sacrifice. Their service was recognised through over 9,200 gallantry awards, including 11 Victoria Crosses.

Indian Expeditionary Force ‘A

In September 1914, the Indian Expeditionary Force ‘A’ arrived in Europe to reinforce the British Army fighting on the Western Front. It comprised two infantry and two cavalry divisions, including about 85,000 Indian soldiers under 1,500 British officers, supported by 26,000 Indian non-combatants who provided logistical and medical support.

This marked the first time that Indian soldiers fought in the harsh European climate, far from home, amidst the trenches and mechanised warfare of France and Belgium. Despite the severe cold, language barriers, and unfamiliar terrain, they fought with unmatched courage and determination.

Battles in France and Belgium

The Indian Corps served with distinction in some of the most intense and decisive battles of the Western Front. They fought bravely in the battles of Ypres, Festubert, Givenchy, Neuve Chapelle, Second Ypres, Cambrai, and Loos.

At the Battle of Neuve Chapelle (March 1915), Indian troops led the assault, achieving early success despite heavy casualties. Their performance was widely praised by Allied commanders for their discipline, courage, and endurance.

In Ypres, Belgian territory, Indian soldiers held their ground against relentless enemy attacks, often under poison gas and artillery fire. Their steadfastness in these engagements helped prevent German advances and played a decisive role in maintaining the Allied defensive line.

By the end of the campaign, Indian troops had suffered over 34,000 casualties in France and Belgium, a testament to their sacrifice and commitment to duty.

Courage in Adversity

Life on the Western Front was brutal, but Indian soldiers displayed remarkable fortitude. They endured freezing winters, constant shellfire, and disease, while maintaining morale and camaraderie. Letters written home spoke of hardship and longing but also of honour in serving the motherland and pride in fighting for freedom and justice.

Their bravery earned the respect of the local French and Belgian populations, who came to regard them with deep admiration and affection.

Neuve Chapelle Memorial – A Symbol of Remembrance

In honour of the Indian soldiers who laid down their lives in France and Belgium with no known graves, the Neuve Chapelle Memorial was inaugurated on 7 October 1927 in France.

Designed to commemorate the fallen, the memorial bears the names of thousands of Indian soldiers who fought on the Western Front. It stands as a symbol of India’s contribution to global peace and as a solemn reminder of the shared history between India, France, and Belgium.

Legacy and Commemoration

The heroism of Indian soldiers in France and Belgium established India’s place among the nations that shaped the outcome of the First World War. Their courage, discipline, and sacrifice continue to inspire generations and remain an enduring part of both Indian and European history.

In recognition of their valour, a commemorative postage stamp has been issued to honour the Indian Expeditionary Force in France and Belgium, paying tribute to the soldiers who fought bravely on foreign soil and laid the foundations of India’s distinguished military legacy.