Sri Vijaya Puram, Sept. 27: World Tourism Day celebration-2026 in A&N Islands witnessed myriad activities organized by the Tourism Department, A&N Administration. The theme of this year’s celebration was ‘Digital Agenda and Artificial Intelligence to Redesign Tourism.’ As part of the celebration, the Directorate of Information, Publicity & Tourism (IP&T), A&N Administration, in close collaboration with tourism stakeholders, including the Andaman Association of Tour Operators (AATO) and Andaman Nicobar Tour Operators Association (ANTOA), and with the support of allied Departments of the A&N Administration, has undertaken a series of diverse, inclusive and engaging programmes across various locations in the Islands from 21st to 27th September, 2026.
The week-long celebrations culminated in a vibrant Grand Finale held at the picturesque Corbyn’s Cove Beach which bought together sports, culture and recognition of talent and participation. The Secretary, IP&T, Shri Vinayak Chamadia, IAS as the chief guest gave away prizes to the winners of various competitions organised as part of the World Tourism Day celebrations.
Addressing the gathering, the Secretary appreciated the general public, particularly students and youth, for their enthusiastic participation and excellent performance in the sporting events. He also expressed gratitude to various organisations, the Department of Sports and Youth Affairs, tourism stakeholders and all those who contributed to the successful conduct of the programme.
Highlighting the importance of digital infrastructure in tourism, the Secretary informed that the Department is developing a Single Window System, which is expected to be ready within the next 3–4 months. The system will streamline tourism-related bookings and services and help address issues faced by tourists at various destinations, including Elephanta Beach, NSCB Island and North Bay.
The Secretary further informed that several tourism policies have been launched by the Department to boost tourism activities in the Islands. Under the Astro Tourism Policy, around 200 Astro Guides have been trained, while a subsidy programme has also been introduced to encourage tourists to use telescopes and experience astro-tourism. The Tourism Department is also working towards obtaining Dark Sky Certification for Chidiyatapu, Little Andaman, Baludera and Ramnagar, taking advantage of the region’s minimal light pollution and favourable conditions for stargazing.
The Secretary further informed that the Islands currently have one Blue Flag-certified beach at Radhanagar, while three more beaches are expected to receive Blue Flag certification by the end of this year. Thereafter, the Administration plans to apply for Blue Flag certification for another 10 beaches.
The Secretary also highlighted the promotion of surfing in Little Andaman, stating that a national surfing competition had already been organised there and that the World Surfing League event has been sanctioned for March 2027. More than 100 surfers from 27 countries are expected to participate, placing Little Andaman on the international surfing map.
Earlier, the beach arena came alive with the final matches of Beach Volleyball & Tug of War at Corbyn’s Cove Beach, fostering team spirit, healthy competition and community participation. This was followed by a cultural programme by local artists, showcasing the rich cultural vibrancy of the Islands through music and dance performances.
The winners and participants of various competitions, including the Beach Volleyball and Tug of War competitions, Tourism Promotional Video/Reels Competition, Mobile App Competition were felicitated with cash prizes and certificates on the occasion.
In the Mobile App development competition, the team of Ms Deepanjali Sarkar, T. Dinesh Kumar and Ms. Priti Toppo (B.Tech. CSE 3rd year DBRAIT) won the first prize for the App titled ‘Dweep Vibes’ while in the Reel Making Competiton Shri Saurav from Bhatubasti bagged the first prize for the titled Journey to Diglipur.
In the Beach Volleyball for Men, Team Seva Bharat remained champions while in the women’s category, TGCE -A remained winners. Similarly, in the Tug of War competition for Men, team Asaa of Corbyn’s Cove remained winners while in the Women’s, team SAI (C) stood in the first position.
Today’s cultural programme by local artists, showcased the rich cultural vibrancy of the Islands through music and dance performances. The artists of BRW films and DNA entertained a huge gathering of general public & visitors at the venue.
As part of today’s celebration, tourists were accorded a warm traditional welcome at VSI Airport, Shaheed Dweep, Swaraj Dweep and other parts of the Islands. Tourists were seen joining in the celebration with their sportive spirit. Major tourist destinations in Isles witnessed enthusiasm among visitors from various parts of the country.