Taiwan Remembers, Pays Tribute to WWII Martyrs on Indian soil

RAMGARH, JHARKHAND, INDIA — A delegation from the Taipei Economic and Cultural Center (TECC) led by Ambassador Baushuan Ger recently paid tribute to 667 fallen soldiers of the Republic of China (now Taiwan) who fought alongside Allied forces during World War II.

The ceremony took place on April 4, 2025, at the historic cemetery in Ramgarh, once part of Bihar and now situated near Ranchi, Jharkhand.

The commemoration coincided with Taiwan’s Ching Ming Festival, also known as tomb-sweeping day. It falls 15 days after the spring equinox, somewhat resembling Pitru Paksha in India, though observed only on a single day in Taiwan. Officials and expatriates from Taiwan burned incense and paper money at the gravesites, a traditional gesture meant to ensure a peaceful afterlife.

They also repainted and cleaned tombstones, honoring the memory of soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice while defending against Japan’s push into South Asia.

The Ramgarh cemetery holds special historical significance. During 1941–1942, troops from the Republic of China fought side by side with the British at the Burma border. When Japan blocked the Burma Road in April 1942, some divisions fell back to the Ramgarh cantonment.

Many soldiers succumbed to malaria, snake bites, or cholera; among the 667 buried, only 40 plaques bear names and ranks. This location also became the first U.S. military training base outside America, where nearly 50,000 Republic of China troops received instruction alongside British and U.S. forces.

TECC emphasizes the enduring bond forged through shared history by upholding the tradition of tomb-sweeping in India. “Far away from their homes, Indian soils warmed their brave souls,” a TECC representative reflected, underscoring the poignant connection between Taiwan and India—one that continues to honor the valor and sacrifice of those who rest in Ramgarh.