Port Blair, Oct 13: The Durga Puja celebration in Andaman and Nicobar Islands was nothing short of spectacular this year, with a special focus on the Puja organised by Monday Jewellery at Naya Shehar, South Andaman. Organized by Shri. Manoj Naik and Shri. Pradeep Kumar Mandal, the Puja Pandal captivated thousands of visitors with its intricate design, created using paper crafts, bamboo, and other artistic materials. As word spread about the beauty of the Pandal, more and more devotees flocked to the site to witness its grandeur.
The lighting and aesthetic arrangements added to the Pandal’s charm, enchanting visitors with a magical ambiance. Thousands of devotees visited the Pandal, and despite the rain, the organizers managed to create an unforgettable experience. The Puja’s traditional theme, inspired by Bengal’s cultural roots, was appreciated by all, with special attention given to the village-style design that highlighted the use of art and craft in showcasing animals and rural life.
One unique aspect of the celebration was the personal involvement of the Shri. Mandal family, with the owner of Mandal Jewellers greeting each visitor at the gate, winning hearts with their humility and hospitality. The Puja was supported by several departments, including the fire and electricity departments, ensuring the event ran smoothly without any disruptions.
Pradeep Kumar Mandal expressed his joy over the success of this first-time event, noting how much it meant to the local community and the families involved in organizing it. He emphasized that the Puja was not just a celebration but a cultural experience meant to inspire the next generation. The organizers plan to continue this tradition annually, further enhancing the cultural heritage of the region.

 

Sri Vijaya Puram, Oct 13: The First-ever Senior National Arbiters Seminar and Examination in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands successfully concluded today at Hotel TSG Grand, Dolly Gunj, Port Blair. Organized by the Andaman Nicobar Chess Association (ANCA) on behalf of the All-India Chess Federation (AICF), this milestone event represents a significant advancement in chess arbitration for the islands. The seminar was inaugurated by Shri Mohd. Irshad, Assistant Director (Sports) of the Education Department, on 12th October 2024, with a great sense of enthusiasm among the participants.

A total of 31 participants from two states took part in this seminar and exam, which is expected to greatly enhance the local chess ecosystem. By training more qualified arbiters, local chess tournaments in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands will be conducted with greater professionalism and accuracy, contributing to the overall growth of chess in the A & N Islands.

International Arbiter Swapnil Bansod from Maharashtra, renowned for his expertise, served as the lecturer for the seminar, ensuring smooth proceedings. Candidates who achieve a score of more than 70% in the exam will be awarded the Senior National Arbiter (SNA) title, and the results will be published on the AICF website within a week.

Port Blair, Oct 11: In a swift and decisive anti-encroachment operation, Revenue officials have reclaimed 4,000 square meters of government land in Austinabad village. The crackdown resulted in the removal of five unauthorized encroachments, including one structure and four fenced areas, all illegally occupying government property.
In a separate surprise inspection at Swaraj Dweep, revenue officials discovered illegal construction activities at four sites. The unauthorized developments were immediately halted, demonstrating the administration’s unwavering commitment to protecting public land and upholding the law.
The District Administration, South Andaman, has made it clear that such operations will continue relentlessly across the region, targeting all illegal occupations. Citizens are strongly urged to respect public land and adhere to regulations, as non-compliance will not be tolerated.
“The District Administration maintains a zero-tolerance approach to encroachments. We will uphold the rule of law and safeguard public property at all costs,” stated the Deputy Commissioner, South Andaman, in a stern warning to violators.
The public is encouraged to report any illegal land activities or concerns to the District Control Room at 03192-240127/238881/1070 or via WhatsApp at 9531888844. All information shared will be kept strictly confidential, ensuring the safety of informants.

Port Blair, Oct 11: A Grand Musical Extravaganza titled “Sharod Jalsaa” comprising superhit Bengali & Hindi songs and exclusive dance numbers, was organised by Atul Smrity Samity, Sri Vijaya Puram with a team of Isles’ renowned singers and dancers on 8th October, 2024 at Samity’s Auditorium on the occasion of Panchami of this Durga Puja.
The show, open to all for witnessing, has been presented under the Concept & Programme Design of Shri Ashees Poddar, an extremely active Life Member since long and ex-Cultural Secretary of the Samity.
The spectacular mega event organized to celebrate 80th Durga Puja of Atul Smrity Samity was hugely successful, which started befittingly by a bhajan based song ‘Mann Re Tu Kahe Na Dheer Dhare’, beautifully rendered by Smt. Monidipa Mukherjee & Shri Ashees Poddar, highlighting our cultural heritage.
The other renowned lead singers included Smti. Ananya Karak, Supriya Kayal, Sujata Roy, Arunima Ghosh, Ms. Amrapali Mitra, Ms. Srijeeta Kayal, Shri Mohd. Nisar, Shri Aboo, Shri Prashant Mitra, Shri Raaj, Shri Dipak Debnath, Shri Shailender Singh, Shri Aktar Hussain, Shri Rajesh Ghosh and Shri Ujjwal Dhali. The front dancers of the show were Ms. Priyanka Bannerjee, Arpita, Shreya, Anika, Sushmita, Smriti, Shayanti, Teesa, Bindu and Mast. Priyanshu. Each and every presentation was highly applauded and selection of songs has been appreciated by one and all.
A number of captivating dance numbers, both solo and group, splendidly choreographed by one of the finest Classical & Contemporary Dance Exponent of these Islands, Smt. Sonali Podder were special attractions of the show. A group dance on the song ‘Deva Sri Ganesha’ was also presented on a powerful performance by Shri. Shailender Singh & Shri. Aktar Hussain, culminating the event in a grand manner.
The show has been flawlessly hosted by the renowned anchors of these Islands, Shri Debesh Roy and Shri Raaj. The Member of Parliament, Shri Bishnu Pada Ray also graced the evening by his esteemed presence and also spoke on the occasion to bless all the artistes.

 

Port Blair, Oct 11: The 37th National Under-11 Boys and Girls Chess Championship – 2024 has concluded, wrapping up an exciting seven-day competition that witnessed a total of 11 intense rounds of chess. The championship, hosted at Hyderabad under the auspices of the All-India Chess Federation, saw the participation of 456 boys (including 308 rated players) and 200 girls (with 105 rated players) from across India.
Players from the Andaman & Nicobar Islands delivered remarkable performances, showcasing their skills against strong competition. Among the standout performers from the Andaman & Nicobar Islands was J.S. Virat, the top scorer from Andaman in the Open Category with an impressive 6 points, securing three wins and two draws against higher-rated opponents, which resulted in a significant increase of 61 Elo points in his international rating. Following him, AFM Shrihaan Karmakar demonstrated strong resilience with 4.5 points, achieving one win and one draw against rated players. Y. Rushil also made his mark with 4.5 points, notching two victories against rated opponents, enhancing his chances of opening his FIDE rating. A Sharad held his ground with 4.5 points, showcasing his defensive prowess by securing a draw against a higher-rated player. R. Siddharth played reasonably well, finishing with 4 points, including a notable win against a rated player.
In the Girls Category, Parnita and Krishnapriya B. Rajesh both scored 4 points, with Krishnapriya impressively earning two draws against higher-rated competitors. Their strong performances showcased their skill and determination throughout the tournament, particularly highlighting Krishnapriya’s ability to excel under pressure.
Players from the Andaman & Nicobar Islands delivered impressive performances, strengthening their presence in national chess. The 37th National Under-11 Chess Championship served as a crucial platform for young talents, nurturing their ambition for future national and international success.

 

Sri Vijaya Puram, Oct 09: Mr. Sunil Paliwal, Chairman, Chennai Port on handing over the charges of Andaman Lakshadweep Harbour Works to Mr. B. Kasiviswanathan, Chairperson, Cochin Port Authority during their visit to A & N Islands called on Admiral D K Joshi, PVSM, AVSM, YSM, NM, VSM (Retd.), the Lt. Governor, A&N Islands and Vice-Chairman, Islands Development Agency today at Raj Niwas. Discussed speedy completion of all ongoing ALHW projects and expediting operationalization of water segment by ALHW for Sea Plane operations to commence soon in Swaraj Dweep, Shaheed Dweep & Long Island. Also discussed modalities of potential ALHW merger with Andaman & Nicobar Administration.

Vikramaditya
Sri Vijaya Puram, Oct 09: A massive oil rig, Blackford Dolphin, arrived in Port Blair today, towed by the anchor-handling vessel ALP Sweeper. The colossal structure became visible early in the morning, drawing large crowds to the seashore to witness its arrival. The oil rig is en route from Mauritius and will probably be deployed for offshore drilling in the Andaman region.
In recent past, the Oil India Ltd. has signed a contract with Norway’s Dolphin Drilling Ltd. to hire the Blackford Dolphin for exploration activities in the Andaman offshore blocks.