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Jashne Kashmir Steals the Show
Port Blair, Jan 14: The much longed for ten-day long Island Tourism Festival (ITF) - 2014 began on 14th Jan. 2014 at the ITF Grounds, Port Blair. The Festival was inaugurated by the Chief Secretary, Anand Prakash by lighting of the traditional lamp in presence of the Member of Parliament, Bishnu Pada Ray and other dignitaries. On the occasion, Anand Prakash read out the message of the Lt. Governor AK Singh who had to suddenly leave for New Delhi on account of the sad demise of his sister. The Lt. Governor however conveyed his best wishes to the Islanders on the occasion of the Festival. He has also assured to reach by the last leg of the festival.
Addressing the gathering on the occasion, the Chief Secretary appreciated the Tourism Department for organising this annual event and hoped that the 10-day event will surely entertain the islanders and the tourists as well.
In his brief speech, the Member of Parliament, Bishnu Pada Ray expressed his happiness over the conduct of the annual event and said that the islanders will able to witness the performances of the artistes starting from Kashmir to Kanyakumari and these islands as well during the fortnight.
Organized under the aegis of Tourism Department of the A&N Administration, the festival aims at showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the Islands. The enthralling performances by local as well as artists from mainland dressed in colourful costumes was the highlight of the opening ceremony. The cultural programme started with an impressive welcome song presented by the artistes of Sur – Saptak. Besides mesmerizing performances by Jashne Kashmir, artists of South Zone Cultural Centre (SZCC), Chennai and Eastern Zone Cultural Centre (EZCC), Virasast- a multimedia presentation by the artistes of A&N Islands depicting the composite culture, unique blend of our cultural traditions and spirit of ‘unity in diversity’ prevailing in these islands left the audience spellbound.
The splendid display of fireworks that lit the night sky, added colour to the inaugural ceremony.
Informing about the 10 -day extravangza, the Director Tourism, Shri Viswakannan stated that the major attractions of this year’s mega event includes performances by eminent artists viz. Padmashree Pandit Vishwa Mohan Bhatt (Mohan Veena), dance presentation by renowned dancer and film actress, Ms. Shamna Kassim, performance by well known Indian Percussionist Shivamani and a musical programme by well known artists Ms. Shruti Rane, singer & ‘Rerum’ a well known band from New Delhi.
Cultural programmes will also be held in outer islands. Shri Viswakannan also proposed the vote of thanks.
Today’s inaugural function was telecast live all over the world by DD Bharti. Among others, the function was also attended by the Chairperson PBMC, Shri K. Ganeshan, Chairperson, SSWB, Smt. Ratna Kannan Municipal Councillors, PRI members and senior officers from the civil Administration and Defence establishment.
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Car Nicobar, Jan 13: The President of India, Pranab Mukherjee was accorded a befitting send off when he left for mainland this afternoon on completion of his three-day visit to the Islands. The President was seen-off at the Car Nicobar Airport by the Lt. Governor, AK Singh, Commander-in-Chief, A&N Command, Air Marshal P K Roy, Chief Secretary, Anand Prakash, Deputy Commissioner, Nicobars, Ms. Shakshi Mittal, Chairman, Tribal Council and a host of senior officers from Defence and Civil Administration.
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Port Blair, Jan. 12: The President of India, Shri Pranab Mukherjee was hosted a Civic Reception by the Port Blair Municipal Council at Netaji Stadium at Port Blair today (January 11, 2014).
Speaking on the occasion, the President said his visit to Andaman and Nicobar Islands is an opportunity to pay homage to freedom fighters who in this hallowed territory underwent great hardship and suffering to secure India’s independence. He said the National Memorial, the Cellular Jail bears testimony to the sacrifices made by them. It stands as a symbol of the burning patriotism of many freedom fighters who spent their youthful lives here in incarceration.
The President said Andaman and Nicobar Islands lie at the important junction of South Asia and South East Asia. Around 30 percent of India's Exclusive Economic Zone and concomitant marine resources are around these Islands. These Islands are not only the maritime gateway to the Bay of Bengal but also overlook major international sea routes. These islands have the potential to be a spring board for India's engagement with South East Asia and the Pacific region. They can be developed as a significant trading, shipping and tourist hub.
The President said the Andaman and Nicobar Islands are the home of some of most precious tribal communities. These communities are equal partners in the nation’s efforts at progress through modernization. He said “progress must come to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands but it must come with deference to the local people, their traditions and the ecology. People working amongst the tribals must take up the task of development with a spirit of dedication as well as a spirit of understanding and sympathy.
Among the dignitaries present on the occasion were Lt. General (Retd) AK Singh, Lt. Governor of Andaman & Nicobar Islands, Shri Bishnu Pada Ray, Member of Parliament (Lok Sabha), Air Marshall P K Roy , Commander in Chief of Andaman and Nicobar Commandand and K. Ganeshan, Chairperson of Port Blair Municipal Council.
Earlier on the day the President laid a wreath at Martyr’s Column at the National Memorial Cellular Jail. (PIB)