Port Blair, Sept. 22: As part of the celebration of World Tourism Day-2023 on Sept. 27 with the theme ‘Tourism and Green Investment’, the Tourism Department, A&N Administration in association with tourism stakeholders, line departments and India Tourism is organizing various events. The celebration kick started this morning with the three days World Tourism Day Knockout Beach Volleyball Tournament, which got underway at the picturesque Corbyn’s Cove Beach.

The Secretary (IP&T), Shri Binay Bhushan, IAS, inaugurated the event by cutting the ribbon in the presence of the guest of honour, Shri Mohd. Jadwet, Chairman, IATO. The Secretary also interacted with the players and wished them luck for the tournaments. He initiated the tournament by tossing the coin for the teams and making the first service, marking the inaugural match. Shri Simson, President, ANTOA and Member, Shri Rajesh Philip, sports lovers and leading tourism stakeholders of the Islands were also present on the occasion.

In the inaugural match played today (Men’s), Seva Bharat-A defeated TGCE -A while in (Women’s), TGCE defeated Diglipur. The matches went on till late in the evening.

The tournament received overwhelming response with teams from Diglipur in the North to Kamorta in South participating in the event. Altogether 38 men’s team and 11 women’s team from colleges like TGCE, JNRM, ANCOL and Departments like IP&T and Police team (Ladies) are participating in the tournament. Light shower coupled with cool breeze and azure blue sea, weaved a perfect atmosphere for the players as they indulged in the game, showcasing their true sporting talent.

The finals will be held on Sept. 24 at the same venue, during which, the prize distribution ceremony will also be held. The prize money for the winners of the 1st, 2nd& 3rd positions are Rs. 20,000, Rs. 15,000 & Rs. 10,000 respectively along with trophies and certificates.