Daijiworld Media Network – New Delhi

New Delhi, Jun 15: In a decisive move to shed its colonial legacy, the Indian Army has rolled out a new uniform code and banned several British-era customs, including the use of the term 'Royal'.

The initiative aligns with the central government's broader push to eliminate colonial-era practices and deeply integrate Indian cultural ethos into the armed forces.

Under the new uniform code, senior officers of the rank of brigadier and above will wear a common uniform. This change aims to promote a unified identity among the senior leadership, transcending their parent regiments. Consequently, regimental lanyards, distinctive headgear, shoulder badges, and specialized belts will no longer be worn by these high-ranking officers. The focus is to ensure that senior commanders represent a cohesive force rather than specific regimental affiliations.

The Army has also clamped down on various archaic customs that have been in practice since the British Raj. The use of the prefix 'Royal' in traditions, official correspondence, and unit practices has been strictly prohibited. Furthermore, colonial traditions such as officers carrying swagger sticks, the use of horse-drawn buggies during official ceremonies, and certain English tunes played by military pipe bands are being phased out.

Military messes and institutions have also been instructed to review their practices and eliminate customs that heavily reflect British heritage. The directive encourages replacing these with traditions that resonate with Indian values and heritage.

This ongoing transformation is seen as a major step in modernizing the identity of the armed forces, ensuring that its customs and traditions reflect the spirit of an independent and self-reliant India.