Sri Vijaya Puram, Oct. 8: The Directorate of Information, Publicity & Tourism (IP&T), Andaman & Nicobar Administration, in collaboration with allied departments, is organising the 3rd Edition of the Island Coconut Carnival–2026 at the ITF Ground, Sri Vijaya Puram, on 17th and 18th October, 2026, from 4 PM to 9 PM. Following the overwhelming response received during the previous editions, the Carnival aims to celebrate the rich cultural, culinary and creative traditions of the Islands through a vibrant showcase of coconut-based cuisine, handicrafts, traditional arts, folk performances and locally produced products. The event will also provide a platform for Self-Help Groups (SHGs), artisans, local entrepreneurs, food operators, hoteliers, restaurant owners and other stakeholders to showcase their products interact with visitors and explore opportunities for income generation and livelihood enhancement. Applications are invited from hoteliers, restaurant owners, individuals, associations, SHGs, NGOs, artisans, food stall operators and other interested participants for participation in the Carnival.
Interested participants may collect the prescribed application forms from the Operational Unit of the Directorate of IP&T. As part of the Carnival, a series of competitions will also be organised, including Coconut-based Art & Handicraft Competition, Coconut De-husking Competition for Men, and Coconut De-husking Competition for Women and Coconut Cooking Competition. Winners of the various competitions will be suitably awarded. Interested participants may contact Shri Chander Rao, HK Assistant Manager (Phone No. 9434282324) and Shri Emlus Lakra (Phone No. 9474200066) regarding participation and the competitions. The last date for submission of applications is 14th October, 2026 up to 4 PM. For any further clarification, one may contact Manager, Directorate of IP&T (Phone No. 9933255364).
The Directorate of IP&T has invited Islanders, visitors, artisans, entrepreneurs, food enthusiasts and the general public to come together and celebrate the spirit of the Islands through coconut—our symbol of tradition, flavour, creativity and craftsmanship.