Serving the Raj: The Indian Army and the War Effort of Rawalpindi in WWI

Abstract

The article deals with the war effort of Rawalpindi district during First
World War, primarily, with the supplying of manpower to the Indian Army
in which the district took lead in recruiting soldiers not only in Punjab but
across India. After annexation of the Punjab military dependence on Punjab
increased and the region emerged as a chief recruiting area for the Indian
Army. Punjab made a great contribution during First World War. All of its
districts were mobilised for generating recruits. But the Rawalpindi district
distinguished itself over and above. The changed system of recruitment
backed by civil administration proved helpful in recruiting campaign in the
district. Recruiting activities were intensified and the district provided the
maximum number of recruits. Like recruitment, the district earned
prominence in Punjab in receiving the greatest number of military awards
for devotion to duty and gallantry of its soldiers. The district was also
rewarded with generous civil awards for active collaboration of civilians
with the state in war services.