Indian Navy abandons colonial practice of carrying batons with immediate effect

The Indian Navy made an announcement stating that it would put an end to the colonial practice of carrying batons with immediate effect. Instead, a ceremonial baton will be appropriately placed in the office of the head of each unit, to be handed over within the office during a change of command.

In their communication, the Indian Navy emphasized that the tradition of carrying batons by naval personnel had become customary over time. However, they considered it a colonial legacy that no longer suits the transformed navy of the present era. As a result, the navy has decided to discontinue the practice of carrying batons by all personnel, including those from the provost, effective immediately.

The Indian Navy has issued instructions for a ceremonial baton to be appropriately placed in the office of the head of each unit. The ceremonial handover of the baton will now take place exclusively within the office as part of a change of command, according to the navy’s directive.

The Indian Defence forces have been actively undertaking various measures to discard British-era practices. Last year, the Indian Navy made significant changes, including the unveiling of its new ensign or ‘Nishaan,’ which was done by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The new ensign eliminates the remnants of the colonial past and instead reflects the nation’s proud maritime heritage, taking inspiration from the seal of Chhatrapati Shivaji, as stated by the Navy in its official statement.

In the past, Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged the defense forces to abandon their colonial practices, considering that the country had been independent for more than 75 years as it entered Amrit Kaal.

The army is presently in the process of evaluating its British-era customs and intends to discontinue certain practices while preserving its valuable heritage.

In March 2021, during the Combined Commanders’ Conference held in Kevadia, Gujarat, Prime Minister Narendra Modi called upon the three services to relinquish legacy systems and practices that have lost their relevance, advocating for the elimination of colonial customs in the armed forces.