Sri Vijaya Puram, July 22: The Ministry of Information & Broadcasting has selected the Andaman and Nicobar Islands for the pilot phase of the ‘Gems of India’ Challenge, a national initiative aimed at identifying, nurturing and promoting grassroots digital creators. The programme opens an opportunity for creators across all three districts of the Islands to showcase the region’s culture, heritage and achievements on a national platform.
The Andaman and Nicobar Islands is among six States and Union Territories chosen for the pilot phase of the initiative. The other selected regions are Arunachal Pradesh, Chandigarh, Dadra & Nagar Haveli and Daman & Diu, Goa and Ladakh.
The challenge invites participants from South Andaman, North & Middle Andaman and Nicobar districts to create original digital content reflecting the distinct identity of the “Emerald Isles.” Entries are expected to highlight tribal culture, eco-tourism, local cuisine, traditional crafts, community achievements, history, heritage and tourism potential of their respective districts.
According to the participation guidelines, creators must download the WAVES OTT application, register their mobile number and create a Creator Profile through the MyWAVES section of the platform before submitting their entries.
The submission window will remain open from Aug. 1 to Aug. 31, 2026. Participants may submit original videos, reels, podcasts, documentaries or other creative formats with a duration of one to three minutes. Each entry must focus on the unique culture, traditions, history, tourism or achievements of the participant’s district.
The initiative provides recognition at multiple levels. At the district level, up to 20 awards carrying a cash prize of Rs. 50,000 each will be presented in every district. At the State or Union Territory level, one outstanding creator from each district will receive a State-level award of Rs. 2 lakh.
Selected entries from the pilot phase will also become eligible to compete during the subsequent national rollout of the programme, where National Awards of Rs. 5 lakh each will be presented to outstanding creators.
The Administration has appealed to young people and creative individuals across South Andaman, North & Middle Andaman and Nicobar districts to participate in the challenge by documenting the Islands’ heritage, traditions and achievements. Interested participants can access further information through the MyWAVES section on the WAVES OTT platform.
