Sri Vijaya Puram, Sept. 16: As part of the upcoming World Tourism Day 2025 celebrations on 27th September, the Department of Tourism, A&N Administration, in collaboration with various line Departments and tourism stakeholders, has planned a series of engaging events to mark the occasion in a vibrant and inclusive manner. The theme for this year, as declared by the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), is “Tourism & Sustainable Transformation”, emphasizing the importance of sustainability in tourism practices and development.
A major highlight of the celebrations will be a week-long Underwater Photography Contest, scheduled to be held from 20th to 25th September, 2025. This contest invites enthusiasts to showcase the breath-taking marine biodiversity of the Andaman Sea through their lens.
Another major event is the Volleyball Tournament, which will take place at Mini Stadium at Wimberlygunj on 25th and 26th September, 2025 from 9 AM to 5 PM. The tournament will be organized by Directorate of Education and the RD & Panchayat Department in association with Tourism Department. This event aims to promote sports tourism and engage the local youth in a healthy, competitive environment. The winners of the volleyball tournament will be awarded cash prizes of Rs. 7,000/- (Winner) and Rs. 5,000/- (Runner-up), along with trophies sponsored by the Department of Tourism. The entry to the same is open for all from Sept. 16 and will close by Sept. 25.
In line with this year’s theme, “Tourism & Sustainable Transformation,” a Thematic Seminar will also be organized at the TGCE Auditorium on 27th September, 2025, starting at 10 AM for 2 hours which will be coordinated by JNRM. The event will feature presentations by experts who will share their insights and expertise on sustainable development, eco-tourism, and community-based tourism models. The seminar will also include an interactive session, allowing participants to engage directly with the speakers, raise queries, and exchange ideas.
To showcase the Islands’ rich culinary heritage, a Cuisine of India Festival will also be organized at ITF Ground, Sri Vijaya Puram on 27th September, 2025, from 3 PM to 10 PM in association with Food Safety Department. The best three food vendors will be selected and awarded suitably based on quality, presentation, and taste.
The Department of Tourism encourages residents, tourists, entrepreneurs, photographers, and sportspersons to actively participate in these events and join in the celebration of World Tourism Day 2025, which reflects the spirit of sustainable development, community engagement, and cultural pride. For underwater photography & Volleyball Tournament kindly contact – Asst. Manager (AWSC), Mob: No. 9434290132 & In-charge Purchase Section, Mob. No.:9434291002 & Cuisine of India Festival at ITF, HK Asst. Manager, Mob No. 9434282324. For further queries/ information, one may visit Office of the Director (IP&T), SVP during office hrs. i.e. from 9 AM to 5 PM or can contact – Manager (Operational – 9933255364).