South Andaman witnessed a lively and spirited week as a series of sports and fitness events unfolded across schools and public venues, bringing together athletes, students, and officials in a shared commitment to physical health, inclusivity, and youth engagement. The energy that spread across the islands captured the essence of a community embracing the national movement for fitness and sustainable living.
The week began with the Fit India Plog Run 2025, organized by the Sports Authority of India (SAI) at the Special Training Centre (STC) Campus and the scenic Marina Park. The event combined the ideals of fitness and cleanliness, encouraging participants to run while collecting litter along their route. Led by Sri Vijaya Puram, Centre In-Charge, SAI STC, the run started from the SAI campus, passed the swimming pool stadium, and concluded at the entrance of Marina Beach Park. It drew active participation from SAI athletes and local residents, turning the stretch into a vibrant symbol of health and environmental awareness.
The run was flagged off by Arjuna Awardee and rowing coach Jenil Krishnan, along with football coach Mohammed Sadique, both of whom have mentored generations of athletes in the islands. The scenic route and collective enthusiasm created an atmosphere that celebrated both personal well-being and civic responsibility. To reinforce the environmental message, a plantation drive was also held within the SAI campus where athletes planted saplings, reflecting the shared spirit of sustainability, growth, and endurance. The event echoed the larger Fit India Movement’s vision of integrating physical activity, cleanliness, and environmental care into everyday life.
Amid the fitness enthusiasm, the District Education Office (DEO) of South Andaman took a step forward in promoting school-level sports by launching a football coaching program under the Fit for School (F4S) initiative at Government Senior Secondary School (GSSS) Girls, Sri Vijaya Puram. The sessions, starting November 3, will be conducted after school hours from 3 PM to 4.30 PM and are open to all interested students. Under the guidance of PGT (Physical Education) Ahmed Ali, the coaching aims to provide structured training for young girls and encourage them to engage regularly in physical activities.
The program focuses on instilling confidence, teamwork, and discipline through football while helping students maintain a balanced lifestyle. It represents a significant effort to make sports an integral part of education and to provide equal opportunities for girls in athletic training. Parents and students have responded positively, viewing it as a platform for skill development and personality growth. The DEO’s initiative aligns with broader efforts to create a school sports ecosystem that nurtures both physical fitness and character building.
While initiatives in Sri Vijaya Puram inspired participation at the school level, the Wimberlygunj Educational Zone hosted a major competitive event that added to the district’s athletic fervour. The 1st Zonal Annual Athletic Meet and Children with Special Needs (CwSN) Event 2025 for under-17 boys and girls was held at the Mini Stadium, Wimberlygunj, from October 29 to 30. The meet was inaugurated by Executive Engineer (RCD, Wimberlygunj) Ali Mumtaz, with Pradhan of Wimberlygunj Gram Panchayat, K. Venkat Ram Babu, as guest of honour.
More than 700 students from various schools across the zone participated, displaying determination and sportsmanship in a range of track and field events. The inclusion of children with special needs gave the meet a deeply meaningful dimension, highlighting the values of equality and inclusivity. Their spirited participation drew warm appreciation from the audience and fellow athletes, reinforcing the message that sports are for everyone, regardless of ability.
Among the standout performances, M. Mohammed Sinan of St. Xavier Senior Secondary School, Mannarghat, won the individual championship in the boys’ category, while Varsha Lakra of GMSSS Ferrargunj and K. Jyothi of GSSS Mannarghat shared the girls’ title. PM SHRI GSSS Bambooflat clinched the overall championship trophy for its consistent performance across multiple events.
The closing ceremony was presided over by Deputy Director of Education (Academic) Gyan Sheel Dubey as the chief guest, with P. Abdul Basheer, Pradhan of Kanyapuram Gram Panchayat, as guest of honour. In his address, Dubey congratulated the winners and praised the zone for successfully organizing a meet that balanced competition with inclusivity. He encouraged the students to channel their energy towards higher-level competitions such as the upcoming State School Games, emphasizing that such grassroots events play a critical role in shaping future athletes.
As the week drew to a close, it became clear that South Andaman’s sports and education ecosystem is steadily evolving. From fitness runs promoting environmental awareness to football programs empowering girls and athletic meets fostering inclusivity, each initiative reflected the growing vibrancy of community-led sports culture in the islands. These events underscored how collaboration between institutions such as SAI, the Education Department, and local bodies can drive youth development through physical activity.
For participants, volunteers, and spectators alike, the week offered more than competition, it offered inspiration. The combination of health awareness, environmental care, and inclusive participation reflected the changing face of sports in South Andaman. The islands’ athletes and students not only celebrated their achievements but also reaffirmed a collective commitment to building a healthier, more active, and environmentally conscious community.
