NEW DELHI, March 20 -- India is commemorating the centenary of participation of Indian soldiers in World War I (WWI) as part of the British Army to highlight the legacy of the Indian military, said local daily Economic Times Friday.

This is also the first time for India to hold a national celebration of the country's role in WWI since its independence in 1947. In the past, Delhi has shunned such celebrations due to its deep British connections.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited last week an exhibition on the war organized by the Indian Army. He also appealed to the public and schools to organize visits to the exhibition.

Indian President Pranab Mukherjee and many political leaders and lawmakers have either congratulated or visited the exhibition.

Over 1.5 million Indian soldiers fought for the British Empire in WWI in Europe and the Middle East 100 years ago.