REPUBLIC OF INDIA
NAVAL ENSIGNS, FLAGS & PENNANTS • 2001-04
In 2001, the Indian Navy decided to change the ensign and commissioning pennant it has flown since 1950, replacing the Cross of St. George with the naval badge, an anchor within a frame surmounted by the state emblem, the Sarnath Lion Capital. The naval rank flags were also changed, since they too had previously displayed the Cross of St. George. The new rank flags, with the naval badge at the hoist and stars according to rank in the fly, were similar to those used by Pakistan. The national flag continued to serve as the Indian naval jack, and the naval reserve ensign was not changed.
The rank of Admiral of the Fleet is actually an honorific that is bestowed for exceptional service, usually during wartime. To date it has never actually been conferred.
The new naval ensign and rank flags proved unpopular with the Navy, and in 2004 they were abolished. The 1950-2001 rank flags and commissioning pennant were reinstated, and the 1950-2001 naval ensign, modified by the addition of the Sarnath Lion Capital at the intersection of the cross, was taken back into use as well.
Adoption/Abolition Dates: The new ensign, commissioning pennant and rank flags were officially adopted on 15 August 2001 and abolished in 2004.
Flag Proportions: Proportions of ensigns, jacks and rank flags were 2:3. The commodore's broad pennant and the Senior Officer pennant had 1:2 proportions.
