President’s Comments in the Visitors Book During Inauguration of Centenary Commemorative Exhibition on India’…

The President of India, Shri Pranab Mukherjee inaugurated today (March 10, 2015) the Centenary commemorative exhibition on India’s Contribution in World War I highlighting the sacrifice and gallantry of the Indian soldiers. He also recorded in a Visitors Book the following views:

"The sacrifices made by the Indian Soldiers during World War-I in alien lands, fighting an unknown enemy, across alien cultures is indeed commendable. Sustaining and continuing to maintain one’s motivation over a period of more than four years could not have been possible without the faith and heritage of Indian soldierly values. The saga of unparalleled gallantry displayed by the Indians on the battle field ensured the victory of the Allies during the War.

With over seventy thousand martyrs and an equal number maimed and injured, the Indians have left an everlasting impression for the future warriors of the Indian Armed Forces. This Centenary Commemoration is an apt recognition for the individual and collective sacrifices made by Indian soldiers. I commend the Indian Army for their superlative effort.”

The President yesterday (March 09, 2015) inaugurated the Centenary commemorative celebrations by placing a wreath at Amar Jawan Jyoti (India Gate, New Delhi).

After the ceremony, he recorded in a Visitors Book the following:-

"On the centenary commemoration of World War-I, I join my fellow countrymen in paying homage to the brave and valiant sons of mother India, who laid down their lives in the line of duty. I am sure that our great nation will continue to draw inspiration from the sacrifice of these brave hearts”.

This release issued at 1700 hrs