Effective immediately, the Indian Navy has ceased the practice of requiring its personnel to carry batons, in accordance with the government's initiative to eradicate colonial legacies.
In a communication issued by the force, the Indian Navy said: "With the passage of time, carrying of batons by naval personnel has become a norm. The symbolism of authority or power pot heated through the holding of a baton is a colonial legacy that is out of place in a transformed navy of Amrit Kaal."
In light of this, "Carrying of batons by all personnel including those from the provost be discontinued with immediate effect," the letter said.
As per the Navy's new directive, a ceremonial baton will be placed in the office of the head of every unit, while the traditional practice of carrying batons by personnel has been discontinued.
The Navy has clarified that the ceremonial handover of the baton can only be conducted within the office during a change of command ceremony.
The Indian Defence forces have implemented various measures to eliminate remnants of colonialism, and one such step taken by the Indian Navy was to change its insignia to a new 'Nishaan'. Inspired by the seal of Chhatrapati Shivaji, the new ensign was unveiled by Prime Minister Narendra Modi last year to reflect the country's rich maritime heritage.
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