Post by Vikas Gurjar on Oct 28, 2012 16:19:03 GMT 5.5
The historical records of the country have showed it clearly that a significant role was played by the Gujjars in Indian Army. Their bravery and sacrifices have protected the country several times from foreign invaders.
According to the great and elaborate history of the country, tremendous role was contributed by the Gujjars in Indian Army. The Indian National Army (INA) or Azad Hind Fauj was the army of the Arzi Hukumat-e-Azad Hind (the Provisional Government of free India) that fought along with the Japanese 15th Army and in the battle of Imphal, during the Second World War. It consisted mostly of Indian prisoners of war who, in the course of service in the British Army, had been captured by Axis forces. Gujjar soldiers played a significant role in the Indian Army.
Gujjar soldiers as well as officers were in great numbers in Azad Hind Fauj. Among which Captain Mukhram Singh, Captain Surajmal and Col. Man Singh are the most mentionable names. Captain Surajmal fought many successful battles and won the confidence of Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose and General Shah Nawaz Khan. Col. Man Singh also impressed everyone with his intelligence and bravery. Gujjar soldiers did not give up even in unfavourable conditions. Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose himself appreciated their bravery and patriotism. Even after the partition of India on the basis of religion; Indian army was also divided thus dividing the Gujjar soldiers.
After the Second World War and before partition, British rulers permitted the formation of the Gurjar regiment in the Indian Army, after looking at the great bravery and sacrifices of the Gujjars in the war, but this issue was not being able to complete because of the partition of India. Gujjar Company of the Rajput regiment on every opportunity proved themselves as great fighters. When foreign forces invaders entered into Kashmir and occupied a wide area then the Rajput regiment with Gujjar companies was posted to protect the region. Gujjar soldiers fought with great courage under the commands of Col. Girdhari Singh Gurjar and saved most of the region. More than 10 lakh Gurjars revolted and supported the Indian army.
In the year 1962, China attacked India and war began between the two nations. In this war also, brave Gurjar soldiers and officers of Rajput regiment fought with their full strength. Post the war, bravery and sacrifices of the Gujjar soldiers are remembered. Many Gujjar soldiers won medals for their sacrifices. Moreover, Kargil Hills were also won by the Gujjar soldiers of Rajput regiment. Thus, every time, in the moments of crisis, Gujjar soldiers of different regiments of the Indian Army proved themselves as the greatest of fighters and protectors of the country.