Some Indian soldiers are set to become household names in Haifa in northern Israel after figuring in history textbooks taught at schools for their contribution in liberating this city in 1918.

The municipality of Haifa has gone ahead with its decision to immortalise the sacrifices made by Indian soldiers, many of whom are buried in the cemetery here, by including the stories of their valiant efforts in liberating the coastal city during the First World War in the school curricula as part of the history textbooks.

"The move is a part of Haifa municipalities efforts to preserve the city's history and heritage," said Hedva Almog, Deputy Mayor of Haifa. Haifa Historical Society has done an extensive research on the role of the Indian army in the region. As per their findings, a large number of Indian soldiers sacrificed their lives in this region during the First World War and nearly 900 are cremated or buried in cemeteries across Israel. Charge de Affaires at the Indian mission in Tel Aviv, Vani Rao, reacted positively to the news.

The Indian Army commemorates September 23rd every year as 'Haifa Day', to pay respects to the two Indian Cavalry Regiments that helped liberate the city in 1918 following a cavalry action by the 15th Imperial Service Cavalry Brigade.

Captain Aman Singh Bahadur and Dafadar Jor Singh were awarded the Indian Order of Merit and Captain Anop Singh and 2nd Lt Sagat Singh were awarded the Military Cross as recognition for their bravery in this battle. Major Dalpat Singh is known in the annals of history as the 'Hero of Haifa' for his critical role in liberation of the city.

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