The weeklong Vivekananda Mela, organised as part of the World Youth Day 2026 celebrations, commenced on 13 January in Shaheed Dweep, drawing strong participation from local residents and tourists. The event marks the birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda and emphasizes youth involvement in nation-building efforts.
The inaugural ceremony was attended by the Chief Engineer of the Andaman Public Works Department (APWD), who served as the chief guest, along with the Pradhan of the Gram Panchayat Shaheed Dweep, the Pramukh of Sri Vijaya Puram Panchayat Samiti, PRI members, senior officers, and officials of the Andaman and Nicobar Administration.
The mela showcased a range of developmental initiatives and public awareness campaigns, with several departments of the Andaman and Nicobar Administration setting up stalls to highlight their schemes, services, and accomplishments. Tourists visiting the island also actively engaged with the exhibitions.
Cultural performances by school students were a central feature of the celebrations. Participants presented patriotic songs, dances, and skits inspired by the teachings and ideals of Swami Vivekananda, earning appreciation from attendees for their vibrant presentations.
In his address, the chief guest highlighted significant developmental projects undertaken by the APWD in Shaheed Dweep, noting improvements in infrastructure and living standards for island residents. The address underscored the importance of youth engagement in supporting ongoing development and in preserving the unique heritage of the islands.
The mela is structured to continue for a full week, combining cultural, educational, and civic awareness components to encourage participation from a broad cross-section of the community. By blending public awareness initiatives with cultural performances, the event aims to strengthen the connection between developmental progress and citizen engagement.
Officials said the programme is designed to inspire the younger generation to actively contribute to societal development while promoting the values associated with Swami Vivekananda, including service, discipline, and leadership.
The Vivekananda Mela 2026 concluded the opening day with a collective commitment to empower youth, advance inclusive development, and uphold the principles and vision of Swami Vivekananda for a progressive and cohesive society. The week-long celebration will continue with a series of exhibitions, awareness drives, and performances aimed at enhancing public understanding of governance, social responsibility, and community participation.
The event further reinforces the role of Shaheed Dweep as a hub for civic engagement and public education, demonstrating how cultural and educational initiatives can complement developmental efforts across the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
