Indian Navy to replace colonial ranks with Indianised designations and gender-neutral titles

• Indian Navy plans to replace colonial ranks with Indianised designations and introduce gender-neutral titles
• This reflects the Navy's commitment to discarding colonial military traditions 
• The revised ranks have been sent for approval to the defense ministry

The Indian Navy is embarking on a significant transformation by replacing ranks inherited from the British era with Indianised designations. This move is part of a broader initiative to discard colonial military traditions and will include the introduction of gender-neutral ranks.

The ranks targeted for transformation include even those held by navy personnel below officer rank (PBOR). This decision aligns with the Navy's recent induction of women sailors, aiming to create an inclusive service environment. The revised designations have been forwarded to the defense ministry for approval, which is expected soon.

Among the ranks set for change are Master Chief Petty Officer Ist Class, Master Chief Petty Officer IInd Class, Chief Petty Officer, Petty Officer, Leading Seaman, Seaman Ist Class, and Seaman 2nd Class.
The move to replace the traditional British-era ranks and introduce gender-neutral titles is in line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's call for erasing colonial customs and embracing Indian traditions in the armed forces.

This shift towards Indianisation has seen several changes over the past two years, including the adoption of a new ensign, dropping the Cross of St. George, and discontinuing the practice of senior officers carrying batons.