British Forces Could Not Face Gorkha Soldiers, Were Forced Into Treaty: Yogi Adityanath

PTI |  September 05, 2025,  Gorakhpur (UP) : Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Thursday inaugurated the beautification of the historic Gorkha War Memorial and laid the foundation for a new museum in Gorakhpur, describing it as a tribute to the sacrifice and bravery of Gorkha soldiers. The Rs 45-crore project aims to preserve and showcase the regiment's 200-year-old martial legacy while strengthening the cultural and historical ties between India and Nepal, officials said.

The event, attended by Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Anil Chauhan, featured the screening of a short film on the Gorkha Recruiting Depot, along with performances by soldiers. Families of soldiers who died in conflict were also honoured during the occasion.

Addressing the gathering, Adityanath praised the Gorkha regiment as a symbol of unparalleled courage. He remarked, "Even the British could not face the Gorkha soldiers and were forced to sign a treaty in 1816. Later, these warriors proved their mettle in the British Army. In independent India, they compelled enemies to retreat on multiple fronts."

The Chief Minister further mentioned that the 100-year-old war memorial will be redeveloped into a grand museum, featuring vintage uniforms, weapons, and artefacts related to the regiment's glorious history.

He also paid homage to poet Ramdhari Singh Dinkar's famous verses and reiterated Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s five pledges, focusing on pride in heritage, respect for soldiers, and unity. Adityanath took the opportunity to highlight his government's welfare measures for soldiers, including a Rs 50 lakh assistance for martyrs' families, job opportunities, and the naming of memorials. He also pointed out a 20 percent reservation in the police force for Agniveers who complete their service.

General Chauhan spoke about the civil-military fusion that the project represents, honouring the selfless service of Gorkha soldiers, over 20,000 of whom died during World War I. Established in 1886, the Gorkha Recruiting Depot holds a storied history, with the memorial built in 1925 now set to undergo modernisation.

"The museum will present the regiment's saga digitally, with sound-and-light shows, 7D theatre, murals, and documentaries," General Chauhan added. "This vision will inspire future generations while strengthening the historic ties between India and Nepal."

The project promises to be an important cultural and historical milestone, preserving the rich legacy of the Gorkha soldiers while inspiring future generations to honour their sacrifices.