In a bold move aimed at breaking colonial legacy ties, Union Home Minister Amit Shah announced on Friday that Port Blair, the capital of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, has been officially renamed as Sri Vijaya Puram.
Renaming Port Blair: Why Sri Vijaya Puram?
Amit Shah explained the decision was inspired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision to eliminate colonial imprints. The shift from Port Blair, a name tied to British history, to Sri Vijaya Puram reflects India’s determination to reclaim its cultural and historical identity. Shah remarked, “Sri Vijaya Puram symbolizes the victory we achieved in our freedom struggle and the Andaman & Nicobar Islands’ critical role in that history.”
Andaman and Nicobar’s Historical Significance
The Union Territory holds a special place in the heart of India’s fight for independence. The Andaman and Nicobar Islands served as a critical naval base during the Chola Empire, a fact Shah emphasized during the announcement. Additionally, it was here that Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose first unfurled the Tiranga (Indian Flag), and it is home to the infamous Cellular Jail, where freedom fighters like Veer Savarkar were imprisoned during the British Raj.
Strategic Role of Sri Vijaya Puram in Modern India
Besides its rich history, Sri Vijaya Puram is poised to play a pivotal role in India’s strategic and developmental aspirations. Amit Shah described the renamed capital as a “crucial base” for India’s defense and future growth in the region.
The ₹72,000 Crore Great Nicobar Project: A Balancing Act
The renaming of Port Blair isn’t the only major development in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands. The Great Nicobar Project, valued at ₹72,000 crore, has stirred debate due to potential displacement of the indigenous Shompen tribe. The Shompens, a nomadic tribe with a population of 244, live predominantly in uncontacted communities on Nicobar Island.
Authorities, however, have clarified that the project is set in an area unaffected by the Shompens, who relocated to deeper parts of the jungle after the 2004 tsunami. The government aims to strike a balance between economic development and preserving indigenous rights.
Honoring India’s Heroes: 21 Islands Named After Param Vir Chakra Awardees
In a separate but related move, Prime Minister Narendra Modi earlier this year named 21 unnamed islands in the Andaman & Nicobar region after Param Vir Chakra awardees. This renaming took place during Parakram Diwas, an event honoring Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose.
Additionally, the National Memorial dedicated to Netaji, to be constructed on Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Dweep (formerly Ross Island), was also unveiled by the Prime Minister. This memorial will serve as a permanent tribute to Netaji’s contributions to India’s freedom movement.
Sri Vijaya Puram – A Step Toward India’s Future
With the renaming of Port Blair to Sri Vijaya Puram, the government has taken a significant step toward shedding the remnants of colonialism while reinforcing the islands’ unique historical and strategic value. The renaming serves as a symbol of India’s independence and its growing role in regional development.
Key Takeaways
- Port Blair renamed as Sri Vijaya Puram to break free from colonial history.
- The Andaman and Nicobar Islands played a crucial role in India’s freedom struggle.
- The ₹72,000 crore Great Nicobar Project faces concerns about the indigenous Shompen tribe.
- Prime Minister Narendra Modi previously named 21 islands after Param Vir Chakra awardees.
- The Netaji Memorial will be built on Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Dweep.
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