On this auspicious occasion of the 73rd Independence Day, I convey my heartiest greetings and best wishes to all the residents of A&N Islands. Today, we pay our homage to all freedom fighters and countrymen, who sacrificed their lives for the Independence of our Nation.

In the history of our freedom struggle, the Islands played a significant role and the Cellular Jail has been a silent witness of the sacrifices of our martyrs and freedom fighters. It was on the soil of the A&N Islands only, where the tri-color was hoisted for the first time by Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose on 30th December, 1943.

In recent years, the Islands are witnessing focused progress with the efforts of the Islands Development Agency and complete support of Central Government and the A&N Administration.

On this pious day, let's come forward, drawing inspiration from the sacrifices and struggles of unsung heroes of India, to commit ourselves for ushering these Islands towards happiness, prosperity and development to realize the vision of New Andamans.

Jai Hind !

Admiral D K Joshi

PVSM, AVSM, YSM, NM, VSM (Retd.)

Lt Governor, A&N Islands & 

Vice-Chairman, Islands Development Agency