Port Blair to be renamed as Sri Vijaya Puram

16-09-2024

Port Blair, the capital of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, has been renamed Sri Vijaya Puram by the Government of India. This decision is part of a broader effort to move beyond colonial legacies and to honor the historical and strategic significance of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, particularly their connections to the Srivijaya Empire and the Indian freedom struggle.

About Renaming of Cities and States in India

Historical Context

Beginning: The renaming of cities in India began in 1947, following the end of British rule.
Notable Renamings:
1. Travancore-Cochin: Renamed Kerala in 1956.
2. Union Territory of Pondicherry: Renamed Puducherry in 2006.
3. Orissa: Renamed Odisha in 2011.

Legal Framework

Article 3 of the Indian Constitution:
1. Authorizes Parliament to establish new states, modify the boundaries of existing states, and change their names.
Approval Authority:
1. The Union Government has the final authority to approve renaming proposals.

Process of Renaming a State

1. Initiation of the Proposal

By State Legislature:
1. The State Legislature can propose renaming or boundary changes.
2. A resolution must be passed with a simple majority.
By Parliament:
1. Parliament can propose changes in response to petitions or political demands.
2. Initiation can come from the central government or Members of Parliament (MPs).

2. Preparation of the Bill

A Bill is drafted by the Ministry of Home Affairs or the relevant State Ministry to include the proposed changes.

3. Introduction and Discussion

Introduction:
1. The Bill is introduced in either the Lok Sabha or Rajya Sabha.
State Legislative Assembly Review:
1. If the Bill involves a state, it is sent to the State Legislative Assembly for review and feedback.

4. Approval Process

Approval by Parliament:
1. The Bill must be passed by both houses (Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha) with a simple majority in each.
Presidential Assent:
1. The Bill is sent to the President for assent.
2. Once approved by the President, the Bill becomes law.

5. Implementation

Official Notification:
1. An official notification is issued to announce the name change or boundary alteration.
Updating Records:
1. Legal documents, maps, records, and signage are updated accordingly.

Historical Background of Port Blair:

Original Name and Naming: Port Blair was named after Archibald Blair, a British naval surveyor and lieutenant in the Bombay Marine, who conducted the first detailed survey of the Andaman Islands.
Blair’s Early Career: Blair began his service in 1771, undertaking surveys across various regions, including India, Iran, and Arabia. His expertise in navigation and surveying earned him notable assignments, including the exploration of the Andaman Islands.

Survey and Naming of Port Blair

Survey Mission: In December 1778, Blair embarked on an expedition to the Andaman Islands aboard the Elizabeth and the Viper. He surveyed the islands, identifying a natural harbor initially named Port Cornwallis in honor of William Cornwallis, then Commander-in-Chief of the British Indian Army.
Colonial Significance: Blair’s findings were reported to the East India Company (EIC), which recognized the strategic importance of the location. This led to the establishment of a British settlement.

Colonization and Decline

Early Colonization: The EIC colonized the Andaman Islands to establish a base against Malay pirates and as a refuge for shipwrecked sailors. The region was also used as a penal colony.
First Colony Decline: In 1792, the original colony was relocated, and the new settlement was again named Port Cornwallis. However, this colony struggled with disease outbreaks and was eventually abandoned by 1796.

Port Blair’s Role Post-1857 Revolt

Post-Revolt Penal Colony: After the Revolt of 1857, Port Blair was revitalized as a penal colony for Indian prisoners. The harsh conditions and high mortality rates marked this period.
Cellular Jail: In 1906, the British constructed the infamous Cellular Jail, known as Kaala Paani, which became a symbol of colonial oppression and housed many Indian freedom fighters, including Veer Damodar Savarkar.

Historical Significance and Name Change

Historical Ties with Srivijaya: The Andaman Islands have historical ties with the Srivijaya Empire. In the 11th century, the Chola emperor Rajendra I used the islands as a base for a military campaign against Srivijaya (present-day Indonesia).
Strategic Importance: The Andaman Islands served as a strategic location for naval expeditions, with inscriptions referring to them as Ma-Nakkavaram, which later influenced the British name Nicobar.

Port Blair’s Role in the Indian Freedom Struggle

Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose’s Visit: On December 30, 1943, Netaji Bose hoisted the national flag at Port Blair, marking it as the first liberated Indian territory during World War II. This event symbolized a significant moment in the Indian independence movement.
Azad Hind Government: During World War II, Port Blair served as the headquarters of the Azad Hind government under Bose, before British forces reclaimed the islands in October 1945.

About Sri Vijaya Puram (Formerly Port Blair)

Current Status: Sri Vijaya Puram is the capital of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, serving as the administrative and strategic hub of the region.
Strategic Installations: It houses significant military installations, including the Indian Navy’s major base INS Jarawa, Indian Coast Guard bases, and the Andaman and Nicobar Command.

Rajendra Chola I and His Conquests

Reign and Achievements: Rajendra Chola I, who reigned from 1014 to 1044 CE, expanded the Chola Empire significantly. His conquests included victories over the Western Chalukyas and campaigns into northern India, enhancing Chola dominance.
Invasion of Srivijaya: Rajendra I’s naval campaign against Srivijaya was a notable event, reflecting the Chola Empire’s power and influence in Southeast Asia. The conquest of Srivijaya marked a peak in Chola naval strength and expanded their control over important maritime trade routes.

Conclusion

The renaming of Port Blair to Sri Vijaya Puram is a significant step in acknowledging the rich historical and cultural heritage of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. This change not only addresses the colonial legacy but also highlights the islands' historical ties with the Srivijaya Empire and their pivotal role in India's freedom struggle. By commemorating this rich history, the renaming reflects India's commitment to honoring its past and recognizing the significant contributions of various historical figures and events in shaping its present and future.