United Kingdom. An Indian General Service Medal to Pte. G. Stewart, 1st Battalion King’s Own Scottish Borderers, with Chin-Lushai 1889-90 Clasp

 An Indian General Service Medal, in silver, rim engraved 1454 Pte. G. Stewart 1st Bn. K. O. Sco. Bord., original ribbon, with clasp CHIN-LUSHAI 1889-90, dark patina, minor wear, extremely fine condition. 

Footnote:  Stewart is on the medal roll for the India General Service Medal with the 1st Battalion King’s Own Scottish Borderers.

The 1st Battalion, King’s Own Scottish Borderers played a significant role in the Chin-Lushai Expedition of 1889–1890, a British military campaign aimed at subduing the resistant tribal populations of the Chin and Lushai Hills, located along the border of northeast India and Burma (now Myanmar). The battalion was part of a larger British force sent to punish local tribes who had conducted raids into British-controlled territories and to bring the region under firmer colonial control. Operating in extremely challenging conditions, the KOSB faced dense jungle, rugged mountainous terrain, poor weather, and limited supplies. Despite these hardships, they were at the forefront of military operations—engaging in skirmishes, securing key positions, and advancing through hostile territory. In addition to combat duties, the battalion contributed to road-building and the establishment of outposts, which were crucial for maintaining a British presence and securing logistical routes. Their efforts helped suppress local resistance and paved the way for British administrative consolidation of the area, marking the expedition as a strategic success for the British Empire.