In a significant move to align military traditions with post-Independence ethos, several training companies at the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Dehradun, which previously bore names of battles fought during the British era, are set to be renamed after battles in which Indian forces have distinguished themselves since 1947.
Sources indicate that this initiative is part of the government’s broader endeavour to do away with colonial vestiges in the armed forces and to highlight Indian heritage and culture.
Phasing Out Colonial-Era Names
Over half of the IMA’s 12 training companies currently carry names drawn from World War-era engagements in which Indian troops fought under the British Indian Army: Kohima, Al Alamein, Meiktila, Sangro, Imphal, Karen, and Cassino. These companies commemorate key military victories and distinguished service by Indian soldiers; however, they are in the process of being re-designated with names such as Dograi, Nathu La, Chushul, Bagdam, Dras, Basantar, and Walong—sites of decisive battles fought by the Indian Army after Independence.
The move is meant to resonate with the national narrative post-1947, and to reflect the Indian Army’s own legacy, free from the shadows of colonial rule. Several existing company names, including Naushera, Poonch, Zoji La, Jessore, and Sinhgarh, already commemorate battles fought after Independence, ensuring part of this transition had long been in place.
Structure of the IMA
The Indian Military Academy has four training battalions—Cariappa, Manekshaw, Thimmaya, and Bhagat—each comprising three companies. While three of these battalions are named after former Indian Army Chiefs, the Bhagat Battalion is named in honour of Lieutenant General PS Bhagat, who was awarded the Victoria Cross during World War II and later served as the first General Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Northern Command.
It is within these battalions that the renaming exercise is taking shape, replacing companies such as Al Alamein and Cassino with names resonating with post-Independence gallantry and operations undertaken by Indian soldiers.
Decolonising Military Traditions
As the Indian armed forces trace many of their traditions—uniforms, regimental customs, ceremonies, and social etiquettes—to their British past, there has been a growing push from the government and military leadership to review and revise these practices. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in a recent address to top military leadership, underscored the need for the armed forces to rid themselves of legacy structures and systems that have outlived their utility and relevance in modern India.
Several notable steps have already been taken to align the forces with indigenous traditions:
- New Naval Ensign: The Indian Navy replaced the Saint George’s Cross with an emblem inspired by the royal seal of Maratha emperor Chhatrapati Shivaji.
- Revised Dress Code: Traditional Indian attire, like kurta-pyjama, has been permitted in officers’ messes across the Navy.
- Beating Retreat Ceremony: Western tunes have been phased out, giving way to exclusively Indian musical compositions, augmented by indigenous instruments such as the tabla and harmonium.
The NDA’s Structure and Post-1971 Changes
Unlike the IMA, the tri-service National Defence Academy (NDA) at Khadakwasla organizes its training cadets into 18 squadrons named using the phonetic alphabetic code (Alpha, Bravo, Charlie, etc.), rather than historical battles. While the NDA’s squadrons have not been tied to colonial battles, the overarching trend in the armed forces is to ensure traditions are more in tune with India’s cultural and historical milestones.
Following the prime minister’s call, the armed forces are currently reviewing more than 75 legacy laws, practices, and procedures. There is also a renewed interest in integrating ancient Indian texts and philosophies—such as Chanakya’s Arthashastra—into strategic studies and military training curricula.
Symbolic Shifts in Military Iconography
Reflecting the changing ethos, the Army Headquarters recently replaced an iconic painting of the 1971 Indo-Pak war surrender with a new painting titled ‘Karam Kshetra.’ The new artwork depicts tanks and helicopters on the banks of Pangong Lake in Ladakh, accompanied by symbolic imagery of a charioted warrior, a saffron-clad monk, and a bird. Officials suggest that this change aligns with an evolving narrative of self-reliance and Indian martial philosophy.
With the renaming of IMA training companies, the Indian Army continues its conscious effort to shape a post-colonial military identity. By honouring battles and heroes of Independent India, these changes signify a deeper cultural shift within the armed forces—one focused on self-reliance, national pride, and respect for indigenous heritage. As more institutions follow suit, it marks a new chapter in the ongoing narrative of decolonising Indian military traditions.
