India Honors Brave Soldiers: 21 Islands of Andaman and Nicobar to be Named after Param Vir Chakra Awardees

In a historic move, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has named 21 of the largest islands in the Andaman and Nicobar archipelago after 21 Indian heroes. The decision was announced during a virtual event on January 23, 2023, in which the Prime Minister also unveiled the model of the National Memorial dedicated to Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, which will be built on Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Dweep, formerly known as Ross Islands.

The 21 islands that have been renamed include Havelock Island, now known as Swaraj Dweep, and Neil Island, now called Shaheed Dweep. Other islands that have been renamed include Viper Island, which will now be known as Veer Surendra Sai Island, and Chatham Island, which will now be called Subhash Chandra Bose Island.

The decision to rename the islands is a significant move towards recognizing the contributions of these Indian heroes and paying homage to their legacy. The move is also in line with the government’s efforts to create a sense of national pride and belonging among the people.

The Prime Minister also unveiled the model of the National Memorial dedicated to Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, which will be built on Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Dweep. The memorial, which is expected to be completed by 2025, will be a fitting tribute to the great leader and freedom fighter, who played a crucial role in India’s struggle for independence.

The move to rename the islands and the construction of the National Memorial dedicated to Netaji is a significant step towards recognizing the contributions of these Indian heroes and preserving their legacy for future generations. The decision has been welcomed by the people and is expected to boost tourism in the region.

In addition, the Prime Minister also announced the development of a maritime museum on Chatham Island, which will showcase the region’s rich maritime heritage and the role played by the Indian Navy in safeguarding the country’s maritime interests.

The Andaman and Nicobar Islands, located in the Bay of Bengal, are known for their picturesque beaches, lush green forests, and rich marine life. The islands are popular tourist destinations and are also home to several indigenous communities.