Forest Department Initiative Blends Art, Conservation and Tourism Vision
Ram Nagar, Feb 27: One of the most scenic beaches of the Andaman & Nicobar Islands, Ram Nagar Beach, acquired a new dimension on Friday with the unveiling of two artistic statues of Lord Buddha, symbolising harmony between humanity and nature.
A towering cement statue installed at the entrance of the beach complex was virtually unveiled by the Chief Conservator of Forests, Territorial Circle, Andaman & Nicobar Islands, Dr. A. Anil Kumar (IFS). Addressing the gathering, he said Ram Nagar Beach is steadily gaining popularity in the region, comparable to the renowned Ross and Smith Islands.
Emphasising the ecological importance of the beach, Dr. Kumar said the installation of the Buddha statue would convey a strong message of peaceful coexistence with nature. He noted that the beach attracts turtles from distant regions for nesting and stressed that ensuring their safety and survival is a collective responsibility.
Congratulating Divisional Forest Officer, North Andaman, Dr. S.H.K. Murti (IFS) and his team for conceptualising and executing the initiative, he described the installation as a milestone in promoting compassion towards the fragile flora and fauna of the Islands. He also appreciated the cooperation extended by Panchayati Raj Institutions in wildlife conservation efforts and acknowledged their role in maintaining the beach’s rich biodiversity.
Visitors witnessed another artistic attraction nearly 500 metres inside the beach complex, a unique statue carved from the stem of a dead tree. The sculpture was unveiled by Dr. Murti, who expressed confidence that Ram Nagar Beach is likely to achieve the prestigious Blue Flag certification in the near future.
He said such recognition would transform the beach into an internationally important site for study and research on biodiversity, while also opening avenues for sustainable economic activities through eco-tourism.
Highlighting the dedication of noted senior Island artist Shri Mahananda Gumashta, Dr. Murti said the sculptor worked tirelessly for several hours every day during the creation process. Sharing the inspiration behind the project, he said the idea of installing Buddha statues symbolised the journey of Gautam Buddha becoming one with nature, conveying a timeless message of respect and conservation of the environment.
Thanking Ram Nagar Panchayat Pradhan Shri Mithun Das, he acknowledged his significant contribution towards maintaining cleanliness and promoting the beach as a model eco-tourism destination. He urged local residents to continue supporting biodiversity and wildlife conservation initiatives.
Speaking on the occasion, senior Islands artist Shri Mahananda Gumashta said it had always been his dream to contribute something meaningful to his native village, where he was born and brought up. Describing the sculptures as one of the most memorable achievements of his life, he credited the constant encouragement and constructive support extended by the DFO and his team.
Panchayat Pradhan Shri Mithun Das said the beach has witnessed remarkable transformation during Dr. Murti’s tenure, particularly in cleanliness drives and biodiversity conservation. He called it a proud moment for the villagers to witness an outstanding artistic creation by a renowned artist belonging to their own village and urged people to imbibe the values of compassion taught by Lord Buddha.
DFO (Wildlife), Mayabunder, Shri A.C. Tilak, Subhashgram Panchayat Pradhan Shri P.R. Singaram and Dr. Shipra Mistry also addressed the gathering.
Proposing the vote of thanks, Assistant Conservator of Forests Shri Shivendra said the objective behind installing the Buddha statues was to offer visitors peace and spiritual solace amidst the pressures of modern life while strengthening awareness towards conservation. Shri Malay Kumar Mondal and Ms Esther John compered the programme.
A large number of villagers, officials from various government departments, Panchayati Raj Institution members and students attended the event, making it a memorable occasion.