Jemadar Facts for Kids

Jemadar or jamadar is a special title. It was used for different military officers and other important leaders in the Indian subcontinent, which includes countries like India, Pakistan, and Nepal.

Where the Word Comes From
Jemadars in the Past
- Before British Rule
- In the British Indian Army
Jemadars Today
Other Uses of the Title
See also

Where the Word Comes From

The word "Jemadar" comes from the Urdu language (جمعدار). It has roots in older Persian and Arabic words. It means something like "holder of a group" or "leader of a gathering."

Jemadars in the Past

Before British Rule

Long ago, before the British came to India, a Jemadar was a military leader. They worked for powerful land owners called zamindars. These zamindars were like feudal lords who owned large areas of land.

A Jemadar's job was to lead soldiers and manage battles. They often helped control people who rebelled against the land owner. This title was also used by some groups of people who attacked travelers. The leader of such a group was often called a Jemadar.

In the British Indian Army

Later, the British started using the title "Jemadar" in their British Indian Army. It was the lowest rank for an Indian officer. These officers were called Viceroy's Commissioned Officers.

Jemadars would often lead small groups of soldiers, like platoons or troops. They also helped their British commanders. Sometimes, they had other important jobs in the army, like helping with supplies (jemadar quartermaster) or managing records (jemadar adjutant).

Jemadars Today

After India and Pakistan became independent countries, the rank of Jemadar changed. In the Indian Army, it was used until 1965. It was the lowest rank for a junior commissioned officer.

Today, the rank of Jemadar has a new name in both the Indian Army and the Pakistan Army. It is now called naib subedar for soldiers who fight on foot (infantry). For soldiers in cavalry or armored units (like tanks), it is called naib risaldar. The title "Jemadar" is still used as a warrant officer rank in the Nepal Army.

Other Uses of the Title

The title "Jemadar" was sometimes used for Indian "captains" or leaders in other groups. For example, it was used for the leaders of groups who attacked travelers.
In the Shanghai Municipal Police, "Jemadar" was a rank for an Indian inspector.
The name "Jemadar" also inspired the name of a warrior race called the "Jem'Hadar" in the TV show Star Trek.
In the future world of Edgar Rice Burroughs' book The Moon Men, "Jemadar" was a title for a ruler. This title was thought to have been brought to Earth by invaders from the Moon.

Jemadar facts for kids

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