Indian Navy: The Indian Navy has introduced new epaulettes for its top officers, which will be worn on the uniform. Epaulettes are a type of decorative insignia worn on the shoulder of the uniform worn by naval officers. Taking inspiration from the Rajmudra of Chhatrapati Shivaji, the Navy has launched a new design of epaulettes, which now have to be worn by officers. Shahsuno: Shivsyaisha Mudra Bhadray Rajate was written in Sanskrit on the royal seal.
Actually, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had announced the introduction of the new design of epaulettes on Navy Day on 4 December in Sindhudurg, Maharashtra. Newly designed epaulettes have been issued for the ranks of Admiral, Vice-Admiral and Rear Admiral. These are the three highest ranks in the Navy. PM Modi has already said that signs of slavery mentality will be discarded in the times to come. This is a step taken in that direction.
Navy said- epaulettes show our maritime heritage
The new epaulettes reflect the maritime heritage of Maratha ruler Shivaji and are an attempt to abandon the mentality of slavery. With this mentality in the new design, there is also a Nelson Ring, which talks about freedom from the slavery of the British. Sharing pictures of the epaulettes, the Navy said that the new design has been taken from the Naval Ensign and inspired by the coat of arms of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. It reflects our rich maritime heritage.
As we usher in the new year #2024, #IndianNavy proudly unveils the new Design of Admirals’ Epaulettes. Announced by @PMOIndia during #NavyDay2023 at Sindhudurg – the 🛑 in the new Design, drawn from the Naval Ensign & inspired from Rajmudra of #ChhatrapatiShivajiMaharajis a… pic.twitter.com/Ssxq8ZLOZd
— SpokespersonNavy (@indiannavy) December 29, 2023
What do the markings included in the design of the epaulettes mean?
- Golden Navy Button: This symbol reiterates the point of ending the mentality of slavery.
- Octagon: It shows eight directions, which serve to reflect the overall long-term vision of the Navy.
- Indian sword: This mark emphasizes on India becoming a leader in national power. Apart from this, it serves to emphasize the Navy’s objective of winning wars through dominance, defeating adversaries and dealing with upcoming challenges.
- Telescope: This mark symbolizes long-term vision, foresight and keeping an eye on the weather in a changing world.
At the same time, the Navy has also reviewed the ranks of the sailors inherited through the British. The Navy is working on a major campaign to end colonial military traditions. As a part of this, the ranks of sailors will be replaced with Indian names. In this way, more than 65 thousand sailors will get new ranks.
