History

The India General Service Medal (1908-1935) was sanctioned by King Edward VII, King of England, by Army Order on January 1st, 1909. The Medal is awarded to Officers and men of British and Indian armies in recognition of service in minor campaigns and operations in India before and after the First World War. Up until 1919, Silver Medals were issued to combatants while native bearers and servants received Bronze Medals. Following 1919, all awards were issued in Silver.

Each campaign was represented by a clasp, and the Medal was never issued without a clasp. Only the 2 clasps, "NORTH WEST FRONTIER 1908" and "ABOR 1911-12" were authorized for wear with the Bronze Medal:

There are 2 different versions of the Bronze Medal which vary by the obverse design of the reigning monarch. Medals manufactured by Royal Mint feature an ornate claw suspension while Medals manufactured by Calcutta Mint feature a plain claw suspension.