PORT BLAIR RENAMED AS SRI VIJAYAPURAM
On September 13, 2024, Union Minister Amit Shah announced that Port Blair, the capital of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, will be renamed as Sri Vijaya Puram.
- Reason for Change: Union Minister Amit Shah stated that the renaming is inspired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision to “free the nation from colonial imprints.”
- Amit Shah emphasized that the new name symbolizes victory in the freedom struggle and acknowledges the Andaman and Nicobar Islands’ unique role in this context.
- The new name reflects the historical and cultural significance of the region, connecting it with India’s imperial past.
HISTORY OF PORT BLAIR
- Original Naming: Port Blair was named after Archibald Blair, a naval surveyor in the Bombay Marine.
- Survey Significance: Blair’s detailed survey of the Andaman Islands was crucial for the city’s establishment.
Archibald Blair’s Early Career and Survey Missions:
- Career Start: Blair began his service in the Bombay Marine in 1771, undertaking surveys along the coasts of India, Iran, and Arabia.
- Notable Surveys: His missions included the Chagos Archipelago, Diamond Harbour, and the Hooghly River.
History of Imperial Chola Engagement with the Andaman Islands and Srivijaya:
- Chola Campaign: In the 11th century, Chola emperor Rajendra I used the Andaman Islands as a base for his campaign against the Srivijaya Empire in present-day Indonesia.
- Strategic Importance: The Cholas referred to the islands as Ma-Nakkavaram, which influenced the modern name Nicobar.
- Invasion: Rajendra I’s campaign against Srivijaya marked a rare direct conflict in India’s otherwise peaceful interactions with Southeast Asia.
In Indian Freedom Struggle:
- Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose: On December 29, 1943, Bose arrived at Port Blair, hoisting the national flag for the first time on Indian soil and declaring the Andaman and Nicobar Islands as India’s first liberated territory.
- Sankalp Smarak: A memorial dedicated to this event was established on December 29, 2021, marking 78 years since Bose’s historic visit.
FACTS ABOUT PORT BLAIR & OTHER ISLANDS
- Role: Port Blair, now Sri Vijaya Puram, is the capital of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands and the headquarters of the South Andaman district.
- Military Importance: It hosts major military installations, including the Indian Navy’s INS Jarawa and various bases for the Indian Coast Guard and other forces.
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