During the First World War, approximately 850,000 Indian soldiers served, with 49,000 losing their lives in combat. India played a significant role beyond troops, contributing materially to the war effort by producing 555 million bullets and over a million shells. The involvement of Indian soldiers was critical to the Allied powers' success, and their sacrifices have historical importance.

Additionally, more than 55,000 Indians joined the Indian Labour Corps, taking on essential but often dangerous jobs like butchers, bakers, and carpenters close to the front lines. In Delhi, a monumental arch commemorates the substantial loss of Indian lives during the conflict, symbolizing the country's significant contribution to the Allied military efforts.