About this stamp
Indians in the First World War
The First World War (1914–1918) witnessed an extraordinary contribution from India, despite being a colony at the time. Nearly 1.4 million Indian soldiers served overseas, demonstrating courage and resilience in some of the most critical battlefields of the war. These soldiers, including over 26,000 Imperial Service troops from semi-autonomous Princely States, earned more than 9,200 gallantry awards, including 11 Victoria Crosses, highlighting their exceptional valor.
India’s participation spanned multiple major battle theatres, each of which showcased the strategic importance and sacrifice of Indian forces.
Mesopotamia – The Capture of Baghdad
In Mesopotamia, Indian forces played a decisive role under the Indian Expeditionary Force ‘D’. Despite early setbacks, their operations culminated in the capture of Baghdad, transforming the military situation and having far-reaching political consequences.
India contributed over three-quarters of the troops, nearly all the cavalry squadrons, and the entire river and railway transport system that made these operations possible. For their bravery, three Indian soldiers were awarded the Victoria Cross during this campaign.
France and Belgium – The Western Front
The Indian Corps, designated Expeditionary Force ‘A’, served in France and Belgium from September 1914. Comprising two infantry and two cavalry divisions, about 85,000 Indian soldiers and 26,000 non-combatants fought in key battles including Ypres, Festubert, Givenchy, Neuve Chapelle, Second Ypres, Cambrai, and Loos.
The corps suffered 34,252 casualties, yet their contribution significantly strengthened the Allied positions on the Western Front and showcased India’s commitment to global peace.
Gallipoli – The Dardanelles Campaign
The Gallipoli Campaign aimed to secure the Dardanelles and open a naval route to Constantinople, pressuring Turkey to surrender. Though the Indian Expeditionary Force ‘G’ was small in number, its impact was significant.
Notable acts of heroism include the 14th Sikhs at the Third Battle of Krithia and the 1/6th Gurkhas at the Battle of Sari Bair, demonstrating the indomitable spirit of Indian soldiers in one of the most challenging theatres of the war.
Legacy of Indian Soldiers in Major Battle Theatres
The service of Indian troops across these battlefields cemented their reputation for bravery, discipline, and loyalty. Their contribution not only helped the Allied forces in strategic victories but also elevated India’s international stature, ultimately contributing to its representation at the Paris Peace Conference, 1919, and entry into the League of Nations.
Philatelic commemorations, such as the Major Battle Theatres Stamp Series, honour these sacrifices, preserving the stories of Indian soldiers who shaped history on distant battlefields.
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