New Delhi, Feb 6: As part of a wider effort to move away from colonial-era symbols, the Indian Army has renamed 246 roads, buildings, and military structures across the country that earlier carried names linked to British rule.
The initiative reflects the government’s broader push to revisit inherited colonial practices and restore recognition to India’s own military heroes, freedom fighters, and national icons. Defence officials said the renaming exercise covers cantonments and military stations nationwide and has gained momentum in recent years.
According to official details, the renamed sites include 124 roads, 77 residential areas, 27 buildings and military facilities, and 18 other structures such as training grounds, parks, gates, and helipads. Each new name has been chosen to honour gallantry award recipients, war veterans, freedom fighters, and distinguished leaders who contributed to India’s military and national history.
Several prominent cantonments have seen notable changes. In Delhi Cantonment, Kirby Place has been renamed Kenuguruse Vihar, while the well-known Mall Road is now Arun Khetarpal Marg, commemorating the Param Vir Chakra awardee. In Ambala Cantonment, Patterson Road Quarters has been renamed Dhan Singh Thapa Enclave, recognising the bravery of another decorated soldier.
In Mathura, New Horn Line is now known as Veer Abdul Hamid Lines, while Queens Line Road in Jaipur Cantonment has been renamed Sundar Singh Marg. Other changes include Thimayya Colony in Bareilly, earlier called New Birdwood Line, and Piru Singh Lines in Mhow Cantonment, previously known as Malcolm Lines.
The renaming drive has also extended to major military institutions. At the Indian Military Academy, Dehradun, Collins Block has been renamed Nubra Block, and Kingsway Block is now Kargil Block, recalling India’s legacy of courage in high-altitude warfare. At Rangapahar Military Station, the sports complex has been renamed Lashram Jyotin Singh Sports Complex, while Hangpan Dada Marg now replaces Spear Lake Road at Jakhama Military Station.
The idea of renaming colonial-era structures was formally proposed in 2021 by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh during the Foundation Day celebrations of the Defence Estates Directorate General. He had noted that many cantonment roads and buildings were named after British officers and soldiers and suggested that these should instead reflect India’s own heroes and historical legacy.
At the same time, the Defence Minister emphasised the need for historical balance, stating that contributions made by British-era officials to local communities should be documented and preserved for reference, even as colonial symbols are phased out.
One of the most symbolic changes has taken place in Kolkata, where Fort William, the headquarters of the Army’s Eastern Command, has been renamed Vijay Durg. The George Gate is now Shivaji Dwar, while Kitchener House has been renamed Field Marshal Manekshaw Bhavan. Dalhousie Barracks has been rechristened Netaji Barracks, and the Russell Block now bears the name of freedom fighter Bagha Jatin.
Officials said the initiative is part of a continuing process aimed at strengthening national identity within the armed forces while honouring India’s military heritage and sacrifices.