One of the last surviving Sikh combatants from the Second World War, Rajinder Singh Dhatt, has received the renowned Points of Light award from British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak. At a special UK-India Week reception held at 10 Downing Street, the award was presented.
On June 28, Mr. Dhatt, who is 101 years old, was presented with this prestigious honor in recognition of his outstanding contribution during the war and his work as the organization’s leader. The group’s mission is to support and unite British Indian military veterans.
Mr. Dhatt, who has lived in Hounslow, southwest London, since 1963, was born in pre-Partition India in 1921. In the British colonial era, he bravely fought for the Allies.
Mr. Dhatt expressed his gratitude by saying, “It is a great honor to receive this award from the Prime Minister. I would like to express my sincere gratitude to him for recognizing the significance and influence of the ‘Undivided Indian Ex-Servicemen’s Association. As a former service member, I felt a strong sense of responsibility to start this organization with the goal of creating companionship, support, and solidarity. This honor honors the innumerable people who have worked nonstop over the years to further the prosperity and development of the organization.
Additionally, he said, “Their unwavering commitment and selfless service have played a pivotal role in bringing about positive change in the lives of our ex-servicemen and their families.”
Mr. Dhatt, who enlisted in the British Indian Army during World War II, showed outstanding dedication and quickly rose through the ranks, becoming a Havildar Major (Sergeant Major) in 1943. He was subsequently sent to the Far East campaign, where, according to Downing Street, he fought in Kohima, northeast India, to support the Allied Forces and assist in breaching the Japanese defenses. Mr. Dhatt briefly visited India after the war before relocating to London with his family.
Recently, the association headed by Mr. Dhatt established an online forum for veterans where members may share personal narratives and establish connections. Mr. Dhatt also continues to speak at memorial gatherings and work with organizations that support war veterans, such as the Royal British Legion and the Taxi Charity for Military Veterans. He makes sure that tales of bravery are conveyed to future generations through educational materials and online tools.
Even as he approaches his 102nd birthday, Mr. Dhatt views receiving this award as a “momentous occasion” that motivates him to keep making significant contributions to society.
According to Downing Street, the Points of Light award is given to extraordinary people whose service significantly improves their communities. Their experiences serve as an example for others, inspiring creative responses to societal problems on a local and international level.
Prime Minister Sunak praised Mr. Dhatt as an “incredible man” and thanked him for his service as a member of the Indian diaspora, referring to him as a “living bridge” between the two countries, during a Downing Street reception commemorating the UK-India Week organized by the India Global Forum.
