Port Blair Renamed Sri Vijaya Puram

The Indian government has officially renamed Port Blair, the capital of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, to 'Sri Vijaya Puram', a move praised by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah as a step toward overcoming colonial legacies. Shah emphasized that the new name symbolizes India's victory in its freedom struggle and reflects the islands' historical significance, including their role in the Chola Empire and as a site for key events in India's fight for independence. This renaming is expected to boost tourism and cultural heritage, according to local tourism leaders, who view it as a positive change that will help preserve the islands' unique identity. The decision aligns with Modi's vision to eliminate colonial imprints from India's narrative. The previous name, associated with British colonial history, has been replaced with one that honors the local heritage and history.