The Nihang, taking their name from a Persian word meaning crocodile, are a Sikh warrior order originating from India. Traditionally constituting an important part of the Sikh Empire’s armed forces, their role in modern society is mainly ceremonial – though they are still duty-bound to protect the public against crime. Known for their striking uniforms, which have remained unchanged for over 300 years, their attire consists of an electric blue robe, high turbans adorned with military symbols, and an assortment of weapons including swords, spears and daggers.

Every year, during the Hola Mohalla festival, Nihang from all over travel to the city of Anandpur Sahib to showcase their dress, and skill in martial arts. It was for this that New York-based photographer, Mark Hartman, made his way to Indiaadvice to the government in May, but it has only now been made public.

The legislation would help people who have been unable to work and earn their own pension due to severe and permanent physical and psychological injuries as a result of the conflict.

Mr Weir suffered his injuries when the IRA detonated a bomb as his patrol drove past a bus stop near Rosslea in County Fermanagh on 17 July 1979.

Sylvia Crowe, a church missionary who was waiting at the bus stop with two other women, was killed.

'Beyond belief'

Mr Weir, who was 22 when he was attacked, is cared for by his family, including his sisters Debbie Palmer and Michele Nixon.

Image caption Grant's sisters Debbie (left) and Michele (right) say it is "beyond belief" that paramilitaries could be