The participation of Indians in the SA military

The South African Indian Legion (Sail) of Military Veterans have encapsulated the roles and success of Indians in the military, spanning from the Anglo-Zulu War to present.

- 

This is currently part of a new exhibition at the Ditsong National Museum of Military History in Saxonwold, Johannesburg. The non-profit organisation researches, documents and creates awareness of the South African Indian military history.

THE SOUTH AFRICAN WAR

ANGLO-ZULU WAR (1879)

The first recorded military involvement of Indians in South Africa was during the Anglo-Zulu war of 1879. Indian soldiers, drawn from the Indian Army, played a supporting role, primarily serving as sentries to safeguard garrisons and storage facilities in Natal. The British initially deployed a small contingency of 22 Indian men, which grew in size as the war progressed. This early involvement marked the beginning of Indian participation in the military in South Africa.

ANGLO-BOER WAR (1899 - 1902)

During the Anglo-Boer War, Indians made significant contributions through various roles. An Indian army contingent was deployed, accompanied by camp followers and the Indian Stretcher Bearer Corps, which provided crucial medical support. Indian traders also offered financial backing to the war effort.

Indian contingent in the war

The British deployed a contingent from the Indian Army as auxiliary forces, primarily stationed at garrisons and remount camps across the country. Although their role was largely supportive, Indian soldiers occasionally found themselves in direct combat situations with Boer forces. The Indian contingent consisted of over 7 000 non-combatants providing essential support throughout the conflict. Their contributions played a vital part in the war effort. The Indian contingent comprised three cavalry regiments, four infantry battalions, three field batteries, ammunition column and one field hospital.

Gallantry in the Battle of Sanna's Post