On the auspicious occasion of Diwali, I extend my warm greetings and good wishes to all my respected Islanders.

I am happy that the Festival of lights is being celebrated across Andaman & Nicobar Islands along with the rest of the Country, irrespective of caste, colour and creed which is a strong re-affirmation of the Island's secular traditions.

Diwali symbolizes the victory of good over evil. The festival encourages all of us to adopt goodness, make sacrifices for humanity and adopt an enlightened approach in pursuance of knowledge and truth. This festival is also associated with cleanliness and underscores the need of maintaining our homes and surroundings in immaculate conditions at all times.

May this festival of lights banish darkness from the society and bring light and joy in the homes of each and every individual in the society.

Kuldeep Rai Sharma,

Member of Parliament,

Andaman and Nicobar Islands