ANDAMAN SHEEKHA

The True Mirror of A & N Islands

Archives for May 2025

AATO Delegation Meets PCCF, Seeks Clarity on Swimming Restrictions and Reopening of Elephant Beach

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Sri Vijaya Puram, May 07: A delegation from the Andaman Association of Tour Operators (AATO), led by its President Mr. M. Vinod, met with Mr. Sanjay Kumar Sinha, IFS, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (PCCF), to discuss the ongoing closure of Elephant Beach and the general confusion among tourists regarding swimming restrictions across the Andaman Islands.

The 6-member delegation raised concerns about misinformation being circulated that swimming is not allowed at any beach in Andamans, which is negatively impacting the perception of the destination among visitors. The delegation sought clarity on the current status of beach closures and requested that clear communication be provided to all stakeholders.

Mr. Sanjay Kumar Sinha, PCCF, clarified that there is no blanket restriction on swimming across the islands. He confirmed that swimming is restricted only in areas under Marine National Parks or where crocodile sightings have been reported such as Wandoor.

He further informed that Elephant Beach has been temporarily closed as a precaution due to a recent crocodile sighting, but assured that the beach will be reopened for tourists shortly, once safety assessments are completed.

AATO welcomed the Forest Department’s proactive engagement and urged timely updates on such closures and re-openings to ensure tourists and tour operators are well-informed. The association reiterated its commitment to working alongside the administration to ensure safe, sustainable, and visitor-friendly tourism in the islands.

JNRM Botany Students Clean Foreshore Beach

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Sri Vijaya Puram, May 07: As part of the university’s non-audit course, which includes the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, M.Sc. Botany First-Year students of JNRM took part in a cleanliness drive at Foreshore Beach on 7th May. The event began at 9.00 AM and was carried out with a lot of excitement. The students wore gloves, carried garbage bags and held placards with eco-friendly messages like “Be part of the solution, not the pollution” and “Don’t be mean, keep it clean.” They collected different kinds of waste from the beach like plastic bags, wrappers, bottles and other litter.
The main goal of the drive was to spread awareness about keeping the environment clean and to show how plastic and other non-biodegradable waste can harm our oceans and beaches. The event also helped to instil a sense of environmental responsibility among the students.

 

ECI crosses milestone of training over 2,300 field-level election functionaries at IIIDEM

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Sri Vijaya Puram, May 07: The Election Commission of India has now taken another unprecedented step of training field-level election functionaries from Tamil Nadu and Puducherry in Tamil language. 293 participants comprising 264 BLO Supervisors, 14 EROs, 2 DEOs and other officials are part of this mixed-batch training programme at IIIDEM, Delhi.
2. In his inaugural address Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Mr. Gyanesh Kumar said that the BLOs are the first interface of the Election Commission of India with the voters and have a vital role in ensuring correct and updated electoral rolls. With this, nearly 2,300 participants have benefited from intensive training programmes being organised at IIIDEM during the past few weeks. This 2-day training programme is in line with the expansive training programme to train election functionaries at all levels including over 1 lakh BLOs in the country in next few years.
3. The BLO supervisors are being trained through interactive sessions, role plays, to ensure accurate filling of various forms including Form 6, 7 & 8. The module includes practical training in the use of IT solutions. These BLO supervisors are being equipped as Assembly Level Master Trainers to train other BLOs.
4. The participants were also familiarised with the provisions of first and second appeals against the final published electoral rolls with the District Magistrate (DM or an officer of equivalent rank) under section 24(a) of RP Act 1950 and Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) of the State/UT under section 24(b) respectively.
5. It may be recalled that no appeals were filed from Tamil Nadu and Puducherry after the completion of the Special Summary Revision (SSR) exercise as of 6th-10th of January 2025.

Summer Carnival 2025 to Dazzle Corbyn’s Cove Beach on May 10–11

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Sri Vijaya Puram, May 7: The Department of Tourism, A&N Administration is all set to host the Summer Carnival Festival 2025 at the picturesque Corbyn’s Cove Beach on 10th and 11th May, 2025 from 3 pm to 8 pm. The event promises to bring alive the vibrant essence of summer, showcasing Island culture, youth engagement, and eco-conscious celebrations under the festive theme: ‘Celebrate the Summer Spirit – Sand, Sea and Smiles’.
This carnival is part of the official tourism activity calendar launched by the Hon’ble Lt. Governor, A&N Islands aims to promote local tourism, cultural richness, and sustainable practices across the Islands. The two-day festival aims to promote local tourism, Island heritage, and sustainable practices, offering a wide array of cultural, recreational, and adventure-based activities for both residents and visiting tourists.

Highlights of the Carnival

Day 1 – Island Welcome & Cultural Colours (10th May)

 A colourful Summer Parade featuring creative floats made from eco-friendly materials, symbolizing summer through motifs like tropical fruits, flowers, umbrellas, summer hats and more, will be held at Corbyn’s Cove Beach at 3 pm. Participants have been requested to assemble at 2 pm at Corbyn’s Cove Beach. The first 50 entries will be awarded with Certificates of Appreciation from the Department.
 Beach Quiz competition among tourists & Islanders.
 A Summer Souk (Bazaar) featuring local handicrafts, coconut-based snacks, tropical drinks, and island delicacies by the owners of Kiosks/shops already been set up at Corbyn’s Cove Beach by SVPMC vendors.
 Open platform for Islanders/tourists for exhibiting talents in singing/dance /mimicry/ poetry etc. (both days)

Day 2 – Beach Thrill & Eco Fun (11th May)

 Eco Splash Zone: A beach clean-up drive led by youth volunteers from PBMC and NYK at Corbyn’s Cove Beach (2 pm – 4 pm).
 Beach Adventure Arena: Exciting water sports like jet skiing and parasailing at discounted rates.
 Carnival Game Village: Treasure Hunt & Tug of War (3 pm – 6 pm).
 Open platform for Islanders/tourists for exhibiting talents in singing/dance /mimicry/ poetry etc.
Winners of various competitions will be awarded suitably. The Department has invited the public and tourists to join the vibrant celebration of Summer Carnival Festival-2025 at Corbyn’s Cove Beach- an event being organized for the very first time. They have been requested to enrol their participation by 9th May, 2025 till 10 am. All have been cordially invited. For more details, contact: Manager (Operational), Tourism Department, Ph: 9933255364, Landline No. 03192-244081.

Student’s exposure visits to ICAR- CIARI

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Sri Vijaya Puram, May 07: On May 6, 2025, students from the Science Center located at Goodwill Estate, Corbyn’s Cove Road, Shadipur, Sri Vijaya Puram, participated in a study tour of the Garacharma Research Complex of ICAR-CIARI. The primary objective of this visit was to deepen the students’ comprehension of scientific research initiatives and recent advancements in agriculture and related sectors at ICAR-CIARI. Mr. D. Karunakaran, a Scientist, provided an overview of the establishment of the freshwater ornamental fish unit, offering valuable insights into the market demand and significance of Hoppies for aquarium setups in both residential and commercial environments, as well as explaining the role of IoT in automating aerators using Dissolved Oxygen Sensors. Dr. K. Saravanan, Senior Scientist, discussed the fisheries museum, highlighting the marine life of the Andaman Islands. Dr. P.A. Bala, Principal Scientist, presented an overview of the Modern Goat unit, Rabbit unit, and other facilities within the Animal Science Division. Miss. T. Kausalya, a Young Professional-I in the Horticulture Division, provided valuable insights regarding the Medicinal Garden and the role of the Horticultural Plants Propagation Unit, which is dedicated to producing high-quality planting materials for a range of horticultural crops.. Additionally, Mr. T. Adharsh Narayana, Young Professional-I from the Agricultural Knowledge Management Unit, elaborated on the automation of drip irrigation in medicinal gardens utilizing soil moisture sensors. Lastly, Mr. Bikash Chandra Mondal, Technician, showcased an extensive collection of vibrant butterflies.
Prior to the commencement of activities, Mr. D. Karunakaran extended a warm welcome to the students, underscoring the institute’s commitment to fostering agricultural progress in the islands. The visit was organized by Mr. K. Ali Akbar, Technician, and Mr. T. Adharsh Narayana, Young Professional-I from the Agricultural Knowledge Management Unit, under the supervision of Dr. Eaknath B. Chakurkar, Director of ICAR-CIARI in Port Blair.

 

Workshop on PM-GatiShakti Launched to Boost Infrastructure Synergy in A&N

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Sri Vijaya Puram, May 7:The Department of Industries, in association with BISAG-N and the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Government of India, inaugurated a two-day workshop on the PM-GatiShakti National Master Plan (NMP) today. The workshop is being held at the Conference Hall, Directorate of Industries, Middle Point, Sri Vijaya Puram.
This capacity-building workshop is specifically designed for Nodal Officers (PM-GatiShakti) from various Departments of the Andaman & Nicobar Administration and Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs). The key focus areas include project mapping, project planning, and data layer integration-crucial components for robust infrastructure development and enhanced inter-departmental coordination under the PM-GatiShakti framework.
The workshop began welcome address by the Deputy Director of Industries. The resource team from BISAG-N, led by Shri Khalid Mehmood, Additional Director, along with Smti Archana Shah, Smti Arti Jebaliya, and Shri Utpalkumar Chaudhari, Project Managers, introduced BISAG-N and provided a demonstration of the PM-Gati Shakti National Master Plan Portal.
The workshop saw enthusiastic participation from officials across multiple Departments, reflecting a collective commitment to utilizing the Gati Shakti platform for integrated infrastructure planning and effective project execution.

Newly Elected N&M ZP Adhyaksh Leads Delegation to AC Diglipur, Urges Immediate Action on Crop Loss, Road Repairs, and Healthcare Shortages

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Rabindranath Biswas
Diglipur, May 06: The newly elected Adhyaksh, Zilla Parishad, N & M Andaman, Mayabunder Mr. Sribash Das led a delegation and met the Assistant Commissioner, Diglipur Mr. Kamleswar Rao S (IAS) and discussed a plethora of issues today.
According to information, the Adhyaksh along with other ZPMs of Diglipur namely Mr. Niranjan Halder, ZPM, Diglipur Constituency, Mr. Mahadev Gain, ZPM, Radhanagar Constituency, Smti Aparna Roy, ZPM, Kishorinagar Constituency, Mr. Biswajit Bairagi, Up-Pramukh, Diglipur and Mr. Asit Baroi, a BJP leader met the Assistant Commissioner, Diglipur and held talks with him on various issues in his chamber.
The Adhyaksh reportedly urged the Assistant Commissioner to conduct an immediate survey of the damage of the farmers’ standing crops of Urad dal, Moong dal as well as vegetables caused by the unseasonal heavy rain last month. The roads under PMGSY in almost all villages in Diglipur are reportedly in rundown condition owing to lack of proper maintenance and which should be repaired and maintained by the respective contractor under the supervision of CD, APWD, Diglipur, but unfortunately that hasn’t reportedly been done, Mr. Das said. The Adhyaksh apprised the ACDP of the deplorable condition of the stretch of road at Badur Tikrey slope which is reportedly in severe rundown condition, and if the road isn’t immediately repaired, then villages such as Radhanagar, Shyamnagar, Haathi Level & Jal Tikrey will be completely cut off from Diglipur Bazaar, as there is no alternative road in the area. The Assistant Commissioner reportedly assured the Adhyaksh that the stretch of road at Badur Tikrey slope will be made motorable by the concerned contractor before the monsoon sets in. Similarly, the road leading to Paschimsagar from Kishorinagar junction is reportedly in damaged condition and which should be repaired within no time, and the bus service provided by the STS Dept. Diglipur requires to be improved, Mr. Das emphasized. The Adhyaksh also observed that there is reportedly shortage of Patwaris and Surveyors in Revenue Department, Diglipur which has been reportedly hampering the delivery of public service; and hence there is requirement of immediate posting of sufficient numbers of Patwaris and Surveyors in Diglipur Tehsil. The CHC, Diglipur is reportedly plagued by the dearth of specialist doctors and nurses and immediate posting of specialist doctors and nurses CHC, Diglipur is the only solution to the sufferings of people afflicted by various diseases, the Adhyaksh argued.
Earlier, the ACDP honoured the newly elected Adhyaksh, Mr. Sribash Das by offering him a shawl, Mr. Das said.

Mock Drill Alert: South Andaman Gears Up for Emergency Preparedness Exercise

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Sri Vijaya Puram, May 06: The District Administration, in coordination with Civil Defence Forces and Emergency Support Functionaries of the Andaman & Nicobar Islands, will be conducting a Civil Defence Exercise on 07th May 2025 at 4:00 PM in the South Andaman District to assess and enhance civil defence preparedness.
They urge all residents and business establishments to remain calm and continue with their routine activities, as this is a pre-planned exercise with no real threat to public safety.
Please note that the sirens installed across the South Andaman District may be briefly sounded during the exercise as part of the standard procedure. This should not be a cause for concern.
Also they strongly advise the public not to be alarmed by any sights or sound associated with the drill. All activities will be carried out in a controlled and supervised environment by trained professionals and coordinators.
This exercise plays a crucial role in strengthening the community’s disaster preparedness. Your cooperation and support are greatly valued as we strive to make the Andaman & Nicobar Islands safer and more resilient. For more information or media inquiries, please contact: Helpline Nos. 112, 1070, 1077.

Ex-Pramukh Mayabunder Urges Urgent Repair of Mayabunder District Road

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Vikramaditya
Mayabunder, May 6, 2025: Highlighting growing concerns over the deteriorating condition of the district road in Mayabunder, former Pramukh Mr. Abdul Siddique has formally appealed to the Public Works Department (APWD) to initiate urgent repair and maintenance work on the heavily used stretch between Lucknow and Mayabunder.
In a letter addressed to the Executive Engineer and Assistant Engineer of NACD, APWD, Mayabunder, Mr. Siddique noted that large potholes have developed along the 6–7 km stretch of road, posing serious challenges for daily commuters including auto-rickshaw drivers, private jeep owners, and residents using two, three, and four-wheelers. The worsening condition of the road is reportedly making travel unsafe and uncomfortable.
Mr.Siddique also pointed out previous pipeline installation work near Danapur Junction, where road digging had left portions improperly restored. Temporary fillings carried out after the water supply repairs have deteriorated quickly, further damaging the road and causing vehicle jerking and discomfort to travelers. He urged the department to ensure that in future, any road sections dug up for utility works are filled and restored properly and permanently.
With the monsoon approaching, the Ex-Pramukh emphasized the urgency of repairs to avoid accidents and further deterioration. “It is my humble request to issue necessary direction to the concerned official of your department to carry out proper and lasting repair work,” he wrote, adding that this work is vital for public safety and convenience.