Port Blair Renamed as 'Sri Vijaya Puram' to Reclaim Historical Identity

The renaming of Port Blair to 'Sri Vijaya Puram' marks a historic step towards embracing a future free from colonial legacies. Union Ministers JP Nadda and Amit Shah highlight the new name's significance in honoring India's freedom fighters and preserving the Andaman and Nicobar Islands' rich cultural heritage.

The Indian government has renamed Port Blair, the capital city of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, as 'Sri Vijaya Puram,' in a bid to shed its colonial past. Union Minister JP Nadda stated that the renaming is in line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of erasing colonial legacies and reclaiming India's historical identity.

In a social media post, Nadda said, 'The decision to rename Port Blair as Sri Vijaya Puram embodies PM Shri Narendra Modi Ji's vision of erasing colonial legacies and reclaiming our historical identity.' He added that the old name carried colonial echoes whereas 'Sri Vijaya Puram' honors India's freedom fighters who fought against colonial rule.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah also announced that the new name symbolizes the victory achieved in the freedom struggle. 'Inspired by the vision of PM Narendra Modi Ji to free the nation from colonial imprints, today we have decided to rename Port Blair as 'Sri Vijaya Puram,'' Shah posted. The Andaman and Nicobar Islands' strategic and cultural significance were highlighted, with contributions from notable personalities such as Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose and Veer Savarkar commemorated.

Key figures like Andaman Association of Tour Operators President Mohan Vinod and Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami welcomed the decision. Vinod called it a 'game-changer for tourism,' while Dhami expressed that it highlights the Union Territory's historical importance. The move aims to promote the unique identity and rich heritage of the islands.

Sanjay Kumar Singh, Vice President of BJP in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, lauded the leadership of PM Modi and Amit Shah for their commitment to preserving India's cultural heritage through this 'historic gesture.'

(With inputs from agencies.)