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Indian Army Renames 246 Colonial-Era Roads and Facilities to Honour War Heroes

The drive follows a 2022 review launched after Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged the services in 2021 to shed colonial-era practices.

Overview

  • The exercise spans 124 roads, 77 residential colonies, 27 buildings and military facilities, and 18 other sites such as parks, training areas, gates and helipads.
  • British-era names are being replaced with those of gallantry awardees and military leaders, reflecting values of courage, sacrifice and leadership.
  • Examples include Delhi Cantonment’s Mall Road becoming Arun Khetrapal Marg and Kirby Place becoming Kenuguruse Vihar, with similar changes in Ambala, Mathura, Jaipur, Bareilly and Mhow.
  • Fort William in Kolkata has been renamed Vijay Durg, and updates at institutions include new names for blocks at the Indian Military Academy and facilities at Rangapahar and Zakhama.
  • Officials say the renaming is part of a wider decolonisation push that also reviews uniforms, accoutrements, regimental nomenclature and ceremonial practices.