Fadnavis Lauds Renaming of Port Blair, Highlights Boon for Farmers

Maharashtra Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis praised the renaming of Port Blair as 'Sri Vijaya Puram' and discussed benefits for farmers from recent hikes in customs duties on sunflower oil and export policy changes for onions and basmati rice.

Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis expressed gratitude towards the Modi government for renaming Port Blair as 'Sri Vijaya Puram,' asserting the importance of eradicating colonial imprints. "The signs of colonialism need to be eradicated. I thank the Modi government for doing this," Fadnavis remarked.

The announcement came via Union Home Minister Amit Shah, who on Friday emphasized the renaming as part of PM Modi's vision to remove colonial imprints. Shah highlighted the historic significance of the island territory, noting its unique role in India's freedom struggle. "While the earlier name had a colonial legacy, Sri Vijaya Puram symbolizes the victory in our freedom struggle," Shah stated.

Fadnavis also discussed recent agricultural benefits, noting the government's hike in customs duties on crude and refined sunflower oil to 20% and 32.5%, respectively. He mentioned that soybean farmers will benefit directly. He also highlighted reductions in export duties for onions and basmati rice, ensuring higher profitability for farmers.

(With inputs from agencies.)