The Indian Navy has made important changes taking inspiration from the legacy of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.
Now the Admiral’s shoulder plaque (Admiral’s Epaulette) will be seen in the new design. The shoulder plaque, worn to denote an officer’s rank, was unveiled on Friday.
Three weeks before this, Prime Minister Narendra Modi himself had announced this. Modi had expressed happiness over this in his address at the Navy Day celebrations in Sindhudurg, Maharashtra on December 4.
He had said that the ‘epaulettes’ worn by Naval officers will now reflect the legacy and heritage of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.
The Navy said on social media platform X, ‘As we enter the New Year (2024). Indian Navy proudly unveils the new design of ‘Admirals Epaulet’.
From January 1, the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admirals and Rear Admirals will start wearing the new epaulettes. There are 5 changes made in this new epaulet as compared to the previous one.
In the new design, the navy has removed the crown-inspired red background on which the national emblem appears. It has been replaced with an octagon derived from the Rajmudra or royal seal of a Maratha king.
It was told by the Navy that the octagon represents 8 major directions, which is an indication of all-round long-term vision.
Names of ranks under Indian traditions in the Navy
PM Modi had said that the Navy will name its ranks as per Indian traditions. He said that the country is moving forward leaving behind the mentality of slavery. Modi recalled the unveiling of the naval flag last year.
The Prime Minister said the founder of the great Maratha Empire knew the importance of naval power for the country and built a strong sea power during his reign.
He said that taking inspiration from Chhatrapati Shivaji, India is leaving behind the mentality of slavery and moving forward on all fronts.
Modi said, ‘Today India is setting big goals for itself and is using its full potential to achieve those goals.’