Peter Wright

India During the Second World War Peter Wright

This publication comprises four articles originally published by the (British) Army Bureau of Current Affairs between 1942 and 1945. These provide a fascinating insight into how India was viewed during the Second World War by at least part of the British establishment. The political situation at the time, particularly the drive for independence, is discussed, as well as the country's economic and social conditions. Not unnaturally, India's position in relation to the war is also covered, with one article being entirely devoted to the Indian Army, its structure and composition.

"India is a far-off country, but it is one which occupies a vital position in our war effort. Not only has it become a bastion against the westward advance of Japanese aggression, it has become a test of the sincerity of our claims to be fighting this war for the freedom of mankind. In India the armed forces of the United Nations - America, Britain and India herself - combine to resist the common enemy of civilisation in the east. In India I had the high honour of placing before the leaders of that great country the British Government's far-reaching offer of freedom and self-government." - Stafford Cripps.



CONTENTS

"India Faces Total War" by Colonel D. H. Cole "My Mission to India" by Sir Stafford Cripps "The Indian Army" by An Indian Army Officer "Indian Background" by Captain Peter Wright The cover features the post-independence flag of India because although independence was not finally achieved until 1947 the Second World War was the immediate prelude to it. In the centre is a picture of men from the 4th Indian Division holding a captured German flag in North Africa.