Indian Army Replaces Colonial-Era Names Across 246 Sites
NEW DELHI — The Indian Army has announced the renaming of 246 roads, buildings, and facilities across its nationwide establishments as part of an extensive initiative to phase out colonial era legacies. According to army officials, the transition includes 124 roads, 77 residential colonies, 27 buildings, and 18 miscellaneous assets such as parks, training areas, sports grounds, gates, and helipads.
The move is intended to reinforce an institutional identity rooted in the history, military traditions, and ethos of India. By replacing British era names with those reflecting Indian valor and sacrifice, the army aims to honor gallantry awardees, war heroes, and distinguished military leaders. This initiative aligns with national efforts to commemorate service and includes dedicated recognitions of Param Vir Chakra awardees.
Several prominent changes have already been implemented across various cantonments. In Delhi Cantonment, the officers accommodation formerly known as Kirby Place has been renamed Kenugurse Vihar, while Mall Road has become Arun Khetrapal Marg. Ambala Cantonment now features Dhan Singh Thapa Enclave in place of the Patterson Road Quarters, and Mathura Cantonment has redesignated New Horn Line as Abdul Hamid Lines.
The restructuring extends to other major military stations. In Jaipur, Queens Line Road is now Sundar Singh Marg. Bareilly Cantonment has renamed New Birdwood Line as Thimayya Colony, and Mhow Cantonment has transformed Malcolm Lines into Piru Singh Lines. At the Indian Military Academy in Dehradun, the colonial designations of Colins Block and Kingsway Block have been replaced by Nubra Block and Kargil Block.
In eastern India, the historic Fort William in Kolkata has been renamed Vijay Durg. Other notable changes in the region include the renaming of the Rangapahar Military Station sports complex to the Laishram Jyotin Singh Sports Complex and the transition of Spear Lake Marg at Zakhama Military Station to Hangpan Dada Marg.
The Indian Army stated that these names commemorate exemplary courage and service across multiple campaigns while recognizing eminent military leadership. Officials emphasized that the initiative underscores a commitment to preserving national sovereignty and ensuring that the spaces where soldiers and their families live and train reflect the legacy and values of Indian heroes. (with IANS and ANI inputs)
