Daijiworld Media Network - Sri Vijaya Puram

Sri Vijaya Puram, Jan 3: Union home minister Amit Shah on Saturday said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has launched a campaign to “free the country from symbols of slavery” by renaming islands in the Andaman and Nicobar archipelago to honor freedom fighters and brave soldiers.

Speaking at the inauguration and foundation laying of projects worth Rs 373 crore on Ross Island, Shah said, “The island has been named after Netaji Subhas Babu, Port Blair has been renamed Sri Vijaynagaram, and several islands now carry the names of our courageous soldiers.”

Shah urged locals and visitors to explore exhibitions based on new justice codes, aimed at abolishing outdated British-era laws and restoring the rights and dignity of Indian citizens. He said these initiatives reflect historic changes in India’s criminal justice system.

In a social media post, Shah recalled that Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose had declared an independent India and hoisted the Tricolour in this region on December 30. “In his honor, two islands have been named Shaheed and Swaraj, and other islands now commemorate India’s brave warriors,” he added.

The Union Minister emphasized the government’s commitment to promoting tourism, development, and security in smaller islands. “This archipelago represents freedom, sovereignty, maritime strength, and economic potential. The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are strategically vital in the Indo-Pacific region,” he said.

Shah also highlighted opportunities in the blue economy, tourism, and heritage preservation. “Once considered a drain on the national treasury, I am confident that within the next ten years, this island group will become a major contributor to India’s economy,” he said, signaling long-term development ambitions for the region.