Port Blair, Nov 16: Andaman and Nicobar Day, the annual cultural event organised as part of the India International Trade Fair (IITF)-2012, was celebrated in a befitting manner in Pragati Maidan, Lal Chowk, New Delhi yesterday. The Lt Governor, Lt Gen (Retd) Bhopinder Singh, PVSM, AVSM as the chief guest of the function lighted the ceremonial lamp to inaugurate the event in presence of the First Lady of the Islands, Smt Bhawanee Singh.
In his address on the occasion, the Lt Governor stated that the Islands is a place of pilgrimage as scores of freedom fighters had made supreme sacrifices for the cause of the motherland and people from different parts of the country should visit the Islands to know about the role and contribution of the Islands in the freedom movement. The historic Cellular Jail and various other historical monuments stand mute testimony to the untold pain and suffering meted out to the heroes of our freedom struggle during the Independence movement, he stated.
He further directed for greater publicity about the tourist places of the islands so that more tourists from other parts of the country can visit the islands which besides generating local employment avenues will also project the Islands as the most sought after tourism destination. “The pristine natural beauty, historical places, unique cultural heritage, rich flora and fauna and the communal harmony are some of the unique features offered by the islands, which the people from other parts of the country must visit and see, he stated. The Lt Governor also urged the exhibitors and the local residents settled in the National Capital to showcase the rich cultural history and products of the islands for generating awareness about the Islands in the National capital and create demands for the local products in the National and International markets.
In his address on the occasion, the Member of Parliament, Mr. B.P. Ray also highlighted the uniqueness of the Islands and stated that besides the rich natural beauty, flora and fauna and historical monuments, the Islands also offer a host of attractions for the visiting tourists.
A colourful cultural programme highlighting the rich cultural history and heritage of the Islands was presented on the occasion. A contingent of 80 local artists with their scintillating performances enthralled the audience on the occasion. The melodious rendition and a classical dance item from the Police Entertainment team of the islands drew loud applause from the audience. A presentation by the Education department on the Islands unique diversity and locking and popping by Master Anderson drew appreciation from the gathering.
The Chairperson, PBMC, Adhyakasha, Zilla Parishad, Tribal Captains, Members of the PBMC, senior officers of the Central and State Governments and a host of other dignitaries attended the function.
