Overview:
In October 2022, a groundbreaking project titled ‘Royal Indian Army Service Corps and The British Army – A Shared Heritage’ was launched. Funded by the Welsh Government and supported by the British Army, this initiative aimed to delve into the historical collaboration between the British Army and the Royal Indian Army Service Corps (RIASC). This project was a collective effort, with substantial support from Glamorgan Archive, Museum Wales, National Library Wales, British Legion, and Peoples Collections Wales.

Project Objectives:
The project aimed to investigate and document the cooperation between the British Army and RIASC, focusing particularly on the experiences of five Indian soldiers who arrived in Dunkirk with the mule regiment to fight a common enemy. When the battle was lost, these soldiers were evacuated to the UK, leaving their mules behind in France. Eventually, 12 soldiers were brought back to Wales, where they lived until their deaths and were buried.

Research and Methodology:
KIRAN Cymru played a pivotal role in researching and decolonising the content, ensuring the narrative was unbiased and accurate. The research team, managed by a competent project manager, engaged community members in the research process. This collaborative approach not only enriched the research but also fostered a deeper understanding and connection within the community.

Key Findings:
1. Historical Cooperation: The project uncovered significant details about the collaboration between the British Army and RIASC during World War II, highlighting the crucial role played by Indian soldiers in the war effort.
2. Human Stories: By focusing on the individual stories of the five soldiers, the project brought to light the personal sacrifices and contributions of these men who fought alongside British forces and later integrated into Welsh society.
3. Decolonisation of History: Through meticulous research, KIRAN Cymru successfully decolonised the historical narrative, presenting a more balanced and inclusive account of the past.

Outcomes:
The project culminated in the creation of two scrapbooks and a compelling video story, capturing the essence of the soldiers’ experiences and the shared heritage between the British and Indian armies. These resources were exhibited at five locations across Wales, making the research accessible to a broad audience and contributing to an anti-racist Wales.

Impact:
The success of this project has had a profound impact on community awareness and understanding of shared military heritage. It has also played a crucial role in promoting anti-racist values by acknowledging and celebrating the contributions of Indian soldiers in the British Army. The project stands as a testament to the power of collaborative research in rewriting history through an unbiased lens.

Conclusion:
‘The Royal Indian Army Service Corps and The British Army – A Shared Heritage’ project has been a resounding success. It not only documented and preserved an important piece of history but also fostered community engagement and promoted anti-racist values. Through the efforts of KIRAN Cymru and the support of various institutions, this project has contributed significantly to the making of an anti-racist Wales and has ensured that the legacy of these brave soldiers is remembered and honoured.