Army renames 246 roads, facilities, colonies in bid to wipe colonial past

The Indian Army has renamed several roads, residential colonies and military facilities as part of its ongoing review of British influence on its culture and traditions, a move aimed at reinforcing an identity anchored in India's rich military heritage, officials aware of the matter said on Thursday.

- Rahul Singh

“The revised nomenclature of 246 roads, buildings and facilities recognises the contributions of India’s gallantry awardees, battle heroes and distinguished military leaders, reflecting values of courage, sacrifice and leadership,” said one of the officials cited above, asking not to be named.

The army announced the review in 2022 after Prime Minister Narendra Modi made a call for severing colonial customs in the armed forces in March 2021 during the Combined Commanders' Conference at Kevadia in Gujarat. He asked the three services to rid themselves of legacy practices that are no longer relevant.

The PM's remarks at the top conference were the first indication that many of the remaining colonial practices in the armed forces were on their way out. He underlined the importance of enhancing indigenisation in the national security system, not just in sourcing equipment and weapons but also in doctrines, procedures and customs.