Swaraj Dweep, Nov. 24: The first day of the three-day Reef Festival 2025, organised by Andaman Nicobar Environment Team (ANET)/Dakshin Foundation with support from Axis Cares, was held on 22nd November 2025 at Swaraj Dweep. The festival celebrates the rich marine ecosystems of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands and promotes a sense of shared responsibility for the oceans. It brings together island residents, especially children, as well as members of fishing communities, dive centres, and other stakeholders.
Reef Festival at Swaraj Dweep featured a range of interactive and ecosystem-themed activities. Children explored game stalls based on island ecosystems, tried out scuba gear under supervision to spark curiosity about the underwater world, and enjoyed ocean-themed temporary tattoos. The beach came alive with laughter during the ocean-inspired races, where children mimicked crabs, jellyfish, and other marine creatures.
A major highlight was the intertidal walk led by Dakshin Foundation’s marine biologists. Children learned about the unique adaptations of intertidal species using bingo cards to identify and record animals they encountered. They also received prizes for their engagement and enthusiasm across the activities. The event saw active participation from middle-school students, their parents, and teachers, many of whom expressed appreciation for the hands-on learning opportunities and the chance for children to connect directly with their island’s marine heritage. Researchers from Dakshin Foundation also organised a workshop on coral reef conservation for dive professionals from Swaraj Dweep.
The second day of the Reef Festival will be a closed event for children, scheduled for November 28, 2025, at Wandoor.
The third and final day of the Reef Festival (Sagar Mela) will take place on November 29, 2025, at Lal Bagh Eco-Friendly Resort, Bathu Basti, from 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm. Dakshin Foundation warmly invites ocean enthusiasts to attend the event with friends and family. Visitors can look forward to cultural performances, a discussion with fisherfolk diving deep into their memories, interactive game stalls, a Seafood Masterchef competition, a photography exhibition, a painting competition for children and a special talk by renowned wildlife photographer Dhritiman Mukherjee, along with many more engaging activities. For further details about the event and to register for the Seafood MasterChef and photography competition, please contact K. Irfan Ali at +91 9531932018.