A new war memorial to commemorate the sacrifice of Sikh servicemen has been backed by the Government.

Hundreds of thousands of Sikh soldiers saw active service during the First and Second World Wars and subsequent conflicts.

More than 83,000 Sikhs died and over 100,000 were injured during the two world wars.

Labour MP Tan Dhesi - the first turban-wearing Sikh to be elected to the Commons - led the campaign for the memorial in London.

The Government will support Mr Dhesi in setting up a working group and finding a suitable location.

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Once an appropriate site has been identified and a memorial agreed on, the Government has agreed to provide funding towards the project as part of its work to commemorate the centenary of the end of the First World War.

Communities Secretary Sajid Javid said: "The part played by Sikh servicemen really stands out - a contribution that's all the more remarkable when you consider that these brave men travelled thousands of miles to fight for a country that wasn't their own.

"We are indebted to all those servicemen who volunteered to serve and fought to defend the freedoms we enjoy today.

"That's why a Sikh war memorial in our nation's capital will honour their sacrifice and ensure that this part of our shared history is never forgotten."

Slough MP Mr Dhesi said: "A staggering £375,000 has already been pledged by 15 generous donors, donating £25,000 each.

"Hopefully with the announced active support of the Government, the Mayor of London and the local authorities, we will in the very near future have a permanent national monument in a befitting central London location.

"It would have huge additional benefits for community cohesion and integration within our country - something which is very close to my heart."

Despite making up only 2% of the Indian population when the First World War broke out, Sikhs accounted for more than 20% of the Indian army's manpower.

Sikh soldiers from the Punjab and surrounding states saw action in Europe, Africa and the Middle East, most notably on the Western Front and at Gallipoli.

Bhai Amrik Singh, the Chair of the Sikh Federation (UK) said:
"This is a massive step forward to deliver one of the ten items in the Sikh Manifesto - A monument in central London to highlight Sikh Sacrifices in the World Wars.”

“Tanmanjeet Singh Dhesi and the All Party Parliamentary Group for British Sikhs should be congratulated on not only securing cross-party support, but pledges of £375,000 from the Sikh community at the launch this evening.”

“The monument when built will be a tribute to the sacrifices over 100 years ago by Sikh soldiers in World War One who were affectionately known as the Lions of the Great War.”

“The monument when built will attract visitors from across the globe and be a huge public statement in the heart of London regarding the distinct Sikh identity and contribution of the Sikh Nation.”