The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are observing National Sports Day this year with a mix of symbolic and competitive events, combining a three-day torch relay with a series of badminton, table tennis, and volleyball tournaments. The celebrations pay tribute to hockey legend Major Dhyan Chand, whose birth anniversary on August 29 is commemorated across the country as National Sports Day.
The highlight of the programme is a ceremonial torch relay across South Andaman, organised jointly by the Department of Education and the Department of Sports and Youth Affairs. The Lieutenant Governor had formally launched the three torches during the Independence Day function at Netaji Stadium on August 15, flagging off the symbolic tribute. The torches are being carried across the three districts of the Union Territory, with the South Andaman leg scheduled between August 21 and 23.
The relay will begin at 8 am on August 21 from GSSS Model School, moving through key points such as Middle Point, Goalghar, Prem Nagar, Delanipur, Haddo, Seashore Road, Lighthouse, Secretariat, RBV, Junglighat, Dairy Farm, School Line, Bathubasti, Prothrapur, Bird Line, Beodnabad, Rangachang, and concluding at Chidiyatapu Beach. The second day, August 22, will cover School Line, Bhathubasti, Garacharma, Sippighat, Dhanikhari Chowk, Humfreygunj, Manglutan, and culminate at Wandoor Beach. The final leg on August 23 will run from Chouldari through Port Mout and end at Ograbraj Chowk, where the torch will be handed to the Nodal Officer, DEO Wimberlygunj.
The torch relay aims to spread awareness of National Sports Day across a wide cross-section of society, reaching both urban and rural communities. Schools, youth groups, and local residents are expected to line the routes, adding to the celebratory spirit while reinforcing the values of sportsmanship and fitness.
Alongside the relay, sporting action is underway in the capital at Netaji Stadium. A badminton doubles tournament for both men and women was held on August 20 at the multipurpose hall. Twelve teams competed in the men’s category, while eight teams took part in the women’s event. The tournament was inaugurated by Assistant Director of Sports, Biswanath Sen, who encouraged players to uphold the spirit of healthy competition.
The celebrations continue with finals and other events scheduled for August 21. The men’s and women’s doubles badminton finals are set for 4 pm at Netaji Stadium. Table tennis doubles for men will begin at 9 am, while the women’s doubles draw will also take place in the morning session. Volleyball matches for both men’s and women’s open categories are slated for 3 pm at the Netaji Sports Complex volleyball court.
Officials have urged participants and spectators to be punctual to ensure smooth conduct of the competitions. The range of events highlights the efforts to make National Sports Day both symbolic and participatory, encouraging active involvement from athletes as well as the wider community.
The relay serves as a tribute to Dhyan Chand’s contribution to Indian hockey, while the competitions provide a platform for local talent to showcase their skills. Together, they reflect the spirit of unity, discipline, and dedication that sports embody.
National Sports Day observances in the islands have always been tied to awareness, engagement, and participation. This year’s celebrations underline the dual objective of honouring a national icon while fostering a culture of fitness and competition among the younger generation. For students and athletes across the Union Territory, the mix of symbolic tributes and real-time contests makes the commemoration more meaningful.
