As part of the 77th Republic Day celebrations, the Andaman and Nicobar Command will carry out ceremonial illumination of ships anchored off the Sri Vijaya Puram waterfront, adding a maritime dimension to the national observance. The initiative is intended to mark the significance of Republic Day while enhancing the visual ambience along the Marina Park and Flag Point areas during the festive period.
Indian Navy and Indian Coast Guard ships under the Andaman and Nicobar Command, along with DSS vessels, will participate in the illumination. The ships will be anchored off Flag Point and will be illuminated on January 26 and January 29, offering a prominent visual display along the waterfront during the evening hours.
According to the schedule, the illumination will take place from 5.45 pm to 10 pm on both days. The timing has been aligned with peak public movement along the Marina Park waterfront, allowing residents and visitors to view the illuminated ships as part of the Republic Day celebrations.
The Marina Park waterfront facing Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Island has emerged as a focal point for public gatherings during national events, and the illuminated ships are expected to draw attention from across the city. The display is intended to complement other Republic Day activities being held in and around Sri Vijaya Puram.
Ceremonial illumination of ships is a traditional feature of national celebrations in coastal and island regions, symbolising the role of maritime forces in safeguarding the nation’s sovereignty. In the context of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, such displays also highlight the strategic significance of the archipelago within India’s maritime framework.
The participation of both naval and coast guard vessels reflects the integrated operational presence of maritime forces in the region. The illumination is expected to enhance the festive atmosphere while reinforcing public awareness of the role played by these forces in coastal security, maritime safety, and disaster response.
The initiative also adds an aesthetic element to the Republic Day observance, transforming the waterfront into a visually engaging public space during the celebrations. Residents are expected to gather along the Marina Park promenade to witness the illuminated ships, which will remain visible from multiple vantage points along the shoreline.
The Andaman and Nicobar Command’s role in organising such ceremonial activities underscores its broader engagement with the local community beyond operational responsibilities. By opening up the waterfront to public viewing during national celebrations, the Command contributes to fostering a sense of connection between the armed forces and civilians.
The ship illumination programme is expected to proceed as scheduled, subject to weather conditions. The event forms part of a series of Republic Day activities aimed at commemorating the adoption of the Constitution and celebrating India’s democratic values in the island territory.
