Sri Vijaya Puram, Feb 19: The Anthropological Survey of India, Andaman & Nicobar Regional Centre is participating in the second iteration of Andaman and Nicobar Book Fair, which is being held from 14th to 22nd February in ITF Ground, Sri Vijaya Puram. This office has set up a vibrant and informative stall at ITF Ground (Stall No. 13), offering visitors a unique opportunity to explore more than seven decades of anthropological research conducted in the islands. The stall stands as a testimony to the institution’s enduring commitment to documenting, preserving, and promoting the rich cultural and biological heritage of the region since 1951. This is an office with a difference, as it is one of its kind in the world to pursue anthropological research in governmental setup.
The stall received distinguished visitors during the celebrations. The Chief Secretary of the A&N Administration, along with several senior officers, visited Stall No. 13 and interacted with the researchers and staff members present. The dignitaries carefully examined the exhibits, publications, and archival displays that showcased decades of anthropological work in the islands. During the visit, the Chief Secretary lauded the dedicated efforts of the regional centre in preserving and documenting the rich cultural and biological heritage of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The initiative to bring anthropological research into a public platform such as the ITF Ground was particularly appreciated, as it strengthens awareness and community engagement. Other officers accompanying the Chief Secretary also expressed their admiration for the comprehensive presentation of research achievements and the informative outreach undertaken by this office. Their appreciation served as a morale boost for the researchers and staff who have consistently worked towards bridging academia and society.
The book stall reflects the institution’s commitment to knowledge dissemination. Many of these publications are the result of years of meticulous fieldwork and analysis, covering topics such as tribal demography, folklore, material culture, after effects of Tsunami, and human adaptation to island environments. For students and researchers, this section serves as a valuable resource. For general readers, it offers an opportunity to gain deeper insights into the unique social and cultural fabric of the islands through its coffee table book “People of Andaman & Nicobar Islands”, which is being sold at this book stall.
In marking World Anthropology Day, the Anthropological Survey of India, Andaman & Nicobar Regional Centre, invites everyone to visit the ITF Ground stall and the Zonal Anthropological Museum at Middle Point. As anthropology continues to live not only in archives and institutions but also in the hearts and minds of the all masses and classes—truly celebrated every day. Such exposure is crucial in nurturing future scholars and encouraging informed citizenship grounded in cultural awareness. Thus, in terms of celebrating Anthropology every day, Despite the fact World Anthropology Day serves as a special occasion marked on February 19 this year, the message conveyed by the Andaman & Nicobar Regional Centre is clear: anthropology is celebrated every day through continuous research, documentation, and public service.
The author is working as Anthropologist (Cul) at Anthropological Survey of India, Andaman & Nicobar Regional Centre, Sri Vijaya Puram – 744101.
