Sri Vijaya Puram, October 9: The deadline for applications to participate in the third Island Coconut Carnival–2026 is October 14, with the Andaman and Nicobar Administration inviting artisans, self-help groups, food operators, entrepreneurs and other interested participants to showcase their products and compete in coconut-themed events at ITF Ground in Sri Vijaya Puram.
The Directorate of Information, Publicity and Tourism (IP&T), in collaboration with allied departments, will organise the two-day carnival on October 17 and 18, from 4 pm to 9 pm. The event will feature coconut-based cuisine, handicrafts, traditional arts, folk performances and locally produced goods, providing a platform for participants to display their work and explore income-generation and livelihood opportunities.
Applications are open to hoteliers, restaurant owners, individuals, associations, self-help groups (SHGs), non-governmental organisations (NGOs), artisans, food stall operators and other interested participants. The prescribed application forms are available from the Operational Unit of the Directorate of IP&T.
The carnival will include four competitions: coconut-based art and handicrafts, coconut de-husking for men, coconut de-husking for women, and coconut cooking. The organisers will award winners in the respective competitions.
Participants seeking information about registration and the competitions can contact Chander Rao, HK Assistant Manager, at 9434282324, or Emlus Lakra at 9474200066. The last date for submitting applications is October 14, by 4 pm.
For further clarification, interested applicants can contact the Manager, Directorate of IP&T, at 9933255364.
The third edition follows the response received during the previous two editions, according to the organisers. The carnival aims to bring together the Islands’ cultural, culinary and creative traditions through products and activities centred on coconut.
Beyond the display of local food and handicrafts, the event is intended to give self-help groups, artisans, local entrepreneurs, food operators, hoteliers and restaurant owners an opportunity to interact with visitors and present their offerings. The organisers have also invited Islanders, visitors, food enthusiasts and members of the public to attend the event.
With applications closing three days before the carnival opens, prospective participants must complete the submission process by the stipulated deadline to seek a place at the event.
