Port Blair Renamed to Sri Vijaya Puram: Boost for Tourism and Cultural Heritage

Andaman Association of Tour Operators President, Mohan Vinod, thanked the Union government for renaming Port Blair to 'Sri Vijaya Puram'. The move is expected to boost tourism and preserve cultural heritage. He appreciated the recognition of Andaman and Nicobar Islands' significance in India's history.

In a significant move aimed at boosting tourism and preserving cultural heritage, the Union government has renamed Port Blair to 'Sri Vijaya Puram'. Mohan Vinod, President of the Andaman Association of Tour Operators, expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the Government of India, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and Union Home Minister Amit Shah for this historic decision.

'This decision is a game-changer for our tourism industry. The new name, Sri Vijaya Puram, will not only boost tourism but also preserve the rich history and cultural heritage of our islands,' Vinod said, praising the government's efforts in recognizing the unique identity of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

Vinod noted that the old name carried a colonial legacy, which has now been left behind. 'For a long time, our capital's name was attached to the Britishers. Now it has been changed to the name of a warrior, and for that, I thank the Prime Minister and Home Minister,' he added. Home Minister Amit Shah tweeted that while the old name had colonial roots, the new name symbolizes the victory achieved in the freedom struggle and the unparalleled place of the islands in India's history.

The renaming is expected to attract more tourists, creating new opportunities for local businesses. The Andaman Association of Tour Operators is optimistic about working with the government to promote the islands' new identity.

(With inputs from agencies.)