CHANDIGARH: The Consulate General of Canada and the British Deputy high commission, Chandigarh, jointly observed the Remembrance Day ceremony to commemorate members of the armed forces of Canada, the UK, India and other countries who died in the line of duty during the World War 1 and 2.

HT PHOTODignitaries and military veterans during the Remembrance Day ceremony in Chandigarh on Wednesday.

Punjab governor and UT administrator VP Singh Badnore said 2.3 million soldiers manned the Indian army and 89,000 of them died in military service.

He added, “In Indian tradition, we also pay homage to all our soldiers who have sacrificed their lives while serving the nation. Today is symbolic to all those, irrespective of the countries, who fought in the two World Wars.”

Consul general of Canada Christopher Gibbins said since the end of World War I, Commonwealth Nations have remembered the men and women who served these countries during times of war, conflict and peace.

British deputy high commissioner David Lelliott OBE said, “I am pleased that we are once again co-hosting a Remembrance Day ceremony with our Canadian partners. Awareness of the role played by Indian troops in both World Wars alongside British, Canadian and other allied forces has grown considerably during the WW1 Centenary. It therefore seems fitting that we have established this tradition of coming together in Chandigarh to mark their sacrifice.”

Maj General, AD Western Command, Major General IJS Hundal recalled the contribution of the Indians during these Wars. “We also honour those who have worked to prevent the tragedies of war in international peacekeeping operations around the globe,” said Hundal.

Dignitaries and military veterans from the tricity attended the ceremony.