WWI Centenary: PM Modi remembers Indian soldiers who fought for the ‘cause of peace’

On the occasion of First World War (WWI) centenary, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday remembered Indian soldiers who fought for the “cause of peace” and sacrificed their lives despite India’s any direct involvement.

“India remembers our brave soldiers who fought in WW-1 This was a war in which India was not directly involved yet our soldiers fought world over, just for the cause of peace,” Modi wrote on Twitter.

In another Tweet, the prime minister reiterated India’s commitment towards the world peace and pledged to promote an atmosphere of harmony and brotherhood.

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“Today, as we mark one hundred years since the end of the horrific First World War, we reiterate our commitment towards world peace and pledge to work to further an atmosphere of harmony and brotherhood so that the trail of death and destruction caused by wars does not occur,” Modi wrote.

Meanwhile, Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu represented India at events commemorating the centenary of the signing of the armistice ending World War I in France.

Armistice Centenary activities begin in Paris

VP @MVenkaiahNaidu is received by Culture Minister @franckriester & Director @MuseeOrsay Laurence des Cars as he arrives at a reception hosted by President @EmmanuelMacron for world leaders participating at the commemoration ceremony pic.twitter.com/vimRm1lasX

— Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) November 10, 2018

Indian Army role in World War I

Despite having any direct involvement, India had played a significant role in the first world war. The Indian Army contributed a large number of divisions and independent brigades of over one million troops to the European, Mediterranean and the Middle East theatres of war.

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The Indian soldiers fought against the German Empire in German East Africa and on the Western Front. Some divisions were also sent to Egypt, Gallipoli and Mesopotamia. In World War I, more than 74,000 Indian soldiers gave their supreme sacrifice.