The government has officially renamed Port Blair, the capital of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, as Sri Vijaya Puram. This decision was announced by Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday, 12 September 2024. The move is part of India’s ongoing efforts to remove symbols of colonial rule and honor the country’s freedom struggle.
Why was Port Blair Renamed?
The name Port Blair is linked to British colonial history, a period that India seeks to move beyond. The new name, Sri Vijaya Puram, is a tribute to the victory of India’s freedom fighters and the crucial role the Andaman and Nicobar Islands played in the independence movement. These islands have a deep historical significance.
They were the site of the first hoisting of the Indian flag by Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose and were home to the infamous Cellular Jail, where many freedom fighters, including Veer Savarkar, were imprisoned.
Impact
Renaming Port Blair as Sri Vijaya Puram represents a significant step in India’s push to reclaim its cultural identity and break away from colonial legacies. This move also strengthens the island’s role in India’s strategic and developmental goals, as Andaman and Nicobar Islands hold key naval importance for India. The island’s new name will resonate globally, aligning with India’s vision of showcasing its rich historical heritage and decolonization efforts.
Motivation behind Renamed of Port Blair
This renaming is a part of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s broader vision to rid India of symbols tied to British rule. The goal is to honor the contributions of freedom fighters and reflect the true spirit of India’s independence. Sri Vijaya Puram symbolizes victory and the resilience of those who fought for freedom.
Key Historical Events
The renaming follows other similar efforts. In 2018, the names of three major islands were changed—Havelock Island became Swaraj Dweep, Neil Island was renamed Shaheed Dweep, and Ross Island became Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Island. Earlier this year, 21 other islands were renamed after Param Vir Chakra awardees, the highest military honor in India.
The name change aims to remove colonial symbols and honor India’s freedom fighters.
These islands were important during India’s freedom struggle, including being the site where Netaji first raised the Indian flag.
The new name reflects India’s strategic and cultural significance, reinforcing its heritage internationally.
In 2018, Havelock, Neil, and Ross Islands were renamed to Swaraj Dweep, Shaheed Dweep, and Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Island.
The name symbolizes victory, paying tribute to India’s freedom struggle and independence.
