The Nancowry group of islands came alive with culture, tradition, and community spirit during the Island Tourism Festival (ITF) 2026, held at Indira Park. Organised by the Nancowry Administration in collaboration with the Departments of Information, Publicity & Tourism and Art & Culture, with support from local Tribal Councils, the two-day festival showcased the vibrant heritage of the Nicobar Islands.
The festival provided a platform for residents across the islands to engage in cultural expression, inter-village exchange, and youth participation. It drew enthusiastic crowds who witnessed traditional performances, competitions, and activities highlighting the islands’ diverse community life.
The inaugural programme was attended by Assistant Commissioner Aditya Sangotra as chief guest, along with Tribal Council Chairpersons Charles Jacob (Kamorta) and Ayesha Majeed (Nancowry), and officers from INS Kardip and ICG Kamorta. The event began with a ceremonial lamp lighting, followed by a welcome address by Nodal Officer Mohammed Yunus, who emphasized the importance of such festivals in strengthening community bonds and increasing public awareness of government schemes and welfare programmes.
A highlight of the opening day was the screening of a video on the traditional Nicobari art form “Kinthwaka,” performed by villagers from Munak Village under Kamorta Tribal Council, showcasing the islands’ rich cultural heritage. During the function, the chief guest also formally handed over keys of mortuary vans, procured under the Integrated Tribal Development Project, to the Tribal Council Chairpersons of Kamorta and Nancowry, fulfilling a long-standing community need and strengthening essential services.
The festival featured traditional community games such as Pillow Fight, Tug of War, Coconut Grating, and a Mini Marathon from the Helipad to Indira Park. These activities encouraged mass participation and revived indigenous recreational practices among residents.
Evenings were marked by a series of cultural performances, including Fire Dance and Bamboo Dance by Team Tapong, folk dances by village groups from Champin and Hitui, and classical and fusion performances by Vikas Dance Academy from Sri Vijaya Puram. Youth clubs and school children also presented group and solo performances, enhancing the festive atmosphere with energetic and colorful displays of music and dance.
On the second day, competitive events such as the Carol Singing Competition and Nancowry Idol – Season 3 Singing Competition provided a platform for emerging local talent, drawing strong audience engagement and further elevating the festival’s celebratory spirit.
Government departments including Agriculture, Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Services, Health, Fire Service, and Rural Development set up informative stalls, offering visitors awareness on government schemes, welfare initiatives, and public services.
The Island Tourism Festival 2026 concluded on a high note, leaving a lasting impression of unity, cultural pride, and community harmony across Nancowry. The event reinforced the Administration’s commitment to promoting indigenous traditions, supporting youth engagement, and encouraging inter-village cooperation in the Nicobar Islands.
