Asia Press Agency

Tag: Colonial Legacy

  • Batons Marks the End of Colonial Relics: Progressive

    Batons Marks the End of Colonial Relics: Progressive

    The decision taken by the Indian Navy to abolish the practice of carrying batons marks a significant step towards shedding the remnants of the colonial era. The use of batons by naval personnel had become a tradition, but the symbolism attached to them, representing authority and power from a bygone era, was no longer deemed appropriate for the modern and transformed navy of Amrit Kaal.

     

    In a formal communique released by the Indian Navy, it was announced that the carrying of batons marks, including by the provost personnel, would be immediately discontinued. This move is part of the broader efforts undertaken by the Indian Defence forces to break away from the legacies of colonialism and embrace a more progressive and independent future.

     

    The changes introduced in the Navy’s insignia further reinforce this commitment. The new Navy flag, unveiled by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the commissioning of India’s first indigenous aircraft carrier, INS Vikrant, presents a fresh design that represents India’s aspirations for a liberated and forward-looking nation. The flag features the National Flag in the upper left canton, and at the center of the fly side, there is a Navy Blue-Gold octagon. Within this octagon lies the golden National Emblem, resting gracefully atop an anchor and superimposed on a shield. Notably, the design within the octagon draws inspiration from the Indian Naval crest, where the traditional fouled anchor, emblematic of the colonial legacy, has been replaced with a clear anchor, symbolizing the steadfastness of the Indian Navy.

     

    By discarding the batons and updating its emblem, the Indian Navy showcases its dedication to progress and its commitment to leave behind the shadows of the past. This transformation aligns with the evolving identity of the nation, where it seeks to establish itself as a prominent global player in the maritime domain.

     

    Overall, this move by the Indian Navy to abolish batons and embrace a modern symbol represents a forward-looking approach and a resolute stance against the relics of the colonial era. It symbolizes India’s desire to shape its destiny and create a future that is free from the vestiges of the past.

  • Colonial Legacy Debate : Assam CM’s Remarks on India’s Name

    Colonial Legacy Debate : Assam CM’s Remarks on India’s Name

    On Wednesday, the Congress and the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) retaliated against Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, who had taken a swipe at the opposition coalition by stating that the British had named the country India. It sparked a Colonial Legacy debate among the parties.

     

    The Twitter War

    Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh took to Twitter on Wednesday to respond, stating that Sarma should convey this to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who had introduced names like ‘Skill India,’ ‘Start-up India,’ and ‘Digital India’ for various programs in the country. Ramesh wrote, “Is the Assam CM having a surplus of sour grapes in his mouth? His new mentor, Mr. Modi, gave us Skill India, Start-up India, and Digital India—all new names for ongoing programs.”

     

    Ramesh added, “He’s (Modi) asked CMs of different states to work together as ‘Team India.’ He even made an appeal to Vote India!” He further expressed that when 26 political parties formed their coalition with the name INDIA (Indian National Developmental, Inclusive Alliance), Sarma threw a fit and claimed that the use of India reflected a “colonial mentality.” Ramesh suggested that Sarma should convey his concerns to his own leader.

     

    Ramesh also shared an old video of Modi urging voters to “vote for India.” Sarma had initially tweeted, “Our civilizational conflict is pivoted around India and Bharat. The British named our country as India. We must strive to free ourselves from colonial legacies.” He emphasized the importance of fighting for “Bharat” while referring to the efforts of the forefathers.

     

    Congress spokesperson Supriya Shrinate also criticized Sarma on Twitter, stating, “Himanta, find a better tweet writer. This one makes you appear foolish. Your fight seems to begin with your geo-location on your Twitter bio??”

     

     

    The opposition parties, comprising 26 political parties, recently formed the INDIA grouping to collectively challenge the ruling NDA in the 2024 Lok Sabha campaign. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi emphasized that the fight would be “between INDIA and Prime Minister Narendra Modi.” However, on Wednesday, they chose ‘Jeetega Bharat’ (India will win) as the alliance’s tagline to defeat the BJP in the 2024 general elections. The decision was made following late-night deliberations, and the tagline is expected to be used in various regional languages.

     

    Echoing the sentiments of the Congress, Clyde Crasto, NCP spokesperson, questioned when the BJP would change its Twitter handle, stating, “Himanta Biswa Sarma says ‘British named our country India; we must free ourselves from colonial legacy.’