The Indian Army has initiated a process to rename 246 roads, buildings, and other facilities across cantonments, garrisons, and camps in India. The renaming began as part of an effort to discontinue names associated with the colonial period.
Officials stated that the renaming process has been completed in some locations, while it is ongoing in others. The changes are intended to reflect India’s own military history, traditions, and ethos, and to recognise gallantry awardees, war heroes, and distinguished military leaders.
Scope of Renaming
The renaming exercise covers the following categories of infrastructure:
- 124 roads
- 77 residential colonies
- 27 buildings and other military facilities
- 18 miscellaneous facilities, including parks, training areas, sports grounds, gates, and helipads
Examples of Renamed Roads and Structures
In various cantonments across India, several names have already been changed:
- Kirby Place (Officers Accommodation) in Delhi Cantonment has been renamed Kenuguruse Vihar.
- Mall Road in Delhi Cantonment is now Arun Khetrapal Marg.
- Patterson Road Quarters in Ambala Cantonment has been renamed Dhan Singh Thapa Enclave.
- New Horn Line in Mathura Cantonment is now Abdul Hamid Lines.
- Queens Line Road in Jaipur Cantonment is renamed Sundar Singh Marg.
- New Birdwood Line in Bareilly Cantonment is now Thimayya Colony.
- Malcolm Lines in Mhow Cantonment has been renamed Piru Singh Lines.
Renaming at Training and Military Institutions
Changes have also been implemented at training establishments and military stations:
- Indian Military Academy, Dehradun:
- Colins Block renamed Nubra Block.
- Kingsway Block renamed Kargil Block.
- Fort William, Kolkata was renamed Vijay Durg.
- The Sports Complex at Rangapahar Military Station was renamed Laishram Jyotin Singh Sports Complex.
- Spear Lake Marg at Zakhama Military Station was renamed Hangpan Dada Marg.
Purpose of Renaming
Officials stated that the renaming exercise is intended to:
- Discontinue colonial-era naming conventions in Army establishments.
- Reinforce an institutional identity anchored in Indian military history and traditions.
- Honour military personnel recognised for gallantry, leadership, and sacrifice.