India’s Contribution to World War II:
WW2:
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World War II, also called Second World War, was a conflict that involved virtually every part of the world during the years 1939–45.
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The principal belligerents were:
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Axis powers: Germany, Italy, and Japan.
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Allies: France, Great Britain, the United States, the Soviet Union, and, to a lesser extent, China.
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India sacrificed too much for the war. In the end the promised independence was also not granted. Indian contribution was hence largely neglected by the allied powers.
Troops:
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Approximately 2.5 million Indian soldiers served in World War 2.
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Over 36,000 Indian soldiers lost their lives, 34,000 were wounded and 67,000 were taken prisoners of war.
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Their exploits were seen in East and North Africa, Italy, Burma, and as far out as Singapore, Malay Peninsula, Guam, and Indo China.
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The roles played by Air Force pilots from India are legendary and well documented.
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In the East, the Indian soldiers, as part of the British Indian Army, fought against the Japanese and were responsible for ultimately securing South East Asia that included Singapore, the Malay Peninsula and Burma.
Other Supplies:
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Indian doctors and nurses were also involved on the British soil and other countries.
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India supplied over 1.7 million food packets to soldiers and Asian prisoners of war, besides putting together warm clothes and other supplies.