United Kingdom (Commonwealth Union)_ During a UK-India Week reception held at 10 Downing Street, British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak honored the 101-year-old Sikh soldier Rajindar Singh Dhatt, one of the few surviving Sikh soldiers who fought in World War II, by presenting him with a Points of Light honor for his lifetime achievements. Mr. Dhatt, aged 101, was honored for his lifetime service and efforts in leading the “Undivided Indian Ex-Servicemen’s Association,” an organization dedicated to bringing together British Indian war veterans.
Born in pre-Partition India in 1921, Mr. Dhatt fought alongside the Allied forces during the British colonial period. Expressing his gratitude for the Prime Minister’s recognition, Mr. Dhatt remarked, “It is an immense honor to receive this recognition from the Prime Minister, to whom I would like to extend my deepest appreciation for acknowledging the importance and impact of the ‘Undivided Indian Ex-Servicemen’s Association.”
Mr. Dhatt emphasized that the establishment of the association was driven by a profound sense of duty as an ex-serviceman towards a vision of promoting unity, support, and camaraderie. Mr. Dhatt also highlighted the tireless efforts of numerous individuals who have contributed to the association’s success and growth over the years, emphasizing their unwavering dedication and selfless service in improving the lives of ex-servicemen and their families.
Mr. Dhatt’s association recently established an online community for veterans, providing a platform for sharing personal stories and opportunities for connection. Mr. Dhatt continues to deliver speeches at memorial events and collaborate with war veteran charities, including the Royal British Legion and the Taxi Charity for Military Veterans. He shares stories through teaching materials and online resources.
On receiving the prestigious award, Mr. Dhatt expressed pride, saying that it is a momentous occasion that further motivates him to make productive contributions to society, even as he approaches his 102nd birthday. The Points of Light award, according to Downing Street, honors individuals who have made remarkable contributions to their communities and whose stories and experiences have the potential to inspire others to find innovative solutions to social challenges within and beyond their own communities.
The recognition of Mr. Dhatt’s accomplishments coincided with a Downing Street reception celebrating UK-India Week organized by the India Global Forum, highlighting the bilateral relationship between the two countries. During his speech, Prime Minister Sunak referred to Mr. Dhatt as an incredible man and expressed gratitude for his service as a member of the Indian diaspora, contributing to the living bridge between the two nations.
