NEWS – Port Blair Renamed as Sri Vijaya Puram

HIGHLIGHTS

Historical Background of Port Blair

• Original Name: Named after Archibald Blair, a naval surveyor in the Bombay Marine.
• Blair’s Survey (1778): Conducted a thorough survey of the Andaman Islands.
• Colonial Purpose: Initially a penal colony and a strategic British harbour to counter Malay pirates and host convicts (famous as Kala Pani – Cellular Jail).

Strategic Importance for the British

• Harbour Use: The islands served as a safe harbour and strategic naval base for British military and commercial interests.
• Post-1857 Role: Became a key site for imprisoning freedom fighters during the Indian Independence Movement.
• Geographical Location: In the Bay of Bengal, providing strategic access to maritime routes and proximity to Southeast Asia.

Chola Empire’s Connection to Andaman

• Rajendra I’s Invasion: The 11th-century Chola emperor used the islands as a naval base to attack the Srivijaya Empire (present-day Indonesia).
• Historical Record: Thanjavur inscription (1050 CE) refers to the islands as “Ma-Nakkavaram,” contributing to the modern name of Nicobar.
• Strategic Expansion: The Chola naval campaign was aimed at securing maritime supremacy over Southeast Asia, adding to their imperial influence.

Geostrategic Importance of Sri Vijaya Puram

• Geography: Positioned in the Bay of Bengal, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands control key shipping lanes connecting the Indian Ocean and the Pacific.
• Modern Strategic Hub: Hosts the Indian Navy’s major base, INS Jarawa, and the first integrated tri-command between the Indian Armed Forces.
• Proximity: Well-connected to the Indian mainland by air (Veer Savarkar International Airport) and sea, ensuring its strategic importance in the region.

Cultural and Strategic Legacy

• Key Monuments: Cellular Jail, museums, and small surrounding islands (Corbyn’s Cove, Ross Island) highlight the historical significance.
• Naval Base Role: As home to the Indian Coast Guard and naval command, it retains military relevance in controlling maritime boundaries.