The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are preparing to celebrate World Tourism Day 2025 on September 27 with a diverse line-up of events that reflect the global theme of “Tourism & Sustainable Transformation.” Coordinated by the Department of Tourism in collaboration with other departments and stakeholders, the celebrations aim to highlight the role of sustainability in tourism while engaging the community and visitors alike.
One of the highlights is a week-long Underwater Photography Contest scheduled from September 20 to 25. The contest will give photography enthusiasts a chance to capture the islands’ marine biodiversity, offering a unique platform to showcase the natural treasures of the Andaman Sea. By encouraging documentation of underwater life, the event seeks to create greater awareness of the fragile marine ecosystem while also promoting the islands as a destination for eco-conscious travelers.
Complementing this cultural angle, a Volleyball Tournament will be held on September 25 and 26 at Mini Stadium, Wimberlygunj. Organized by the Directorate of Education and the RD & Panchayat Department in partnership with Tourism, the event will run from 9 am to 5 pm on both days. Cash prizes of Rs. 7,000 for the winners and Rs. 5,000 for runners-up will be awarded, along with trophies sponsored by the Department of Tourism. The tournament reflects an effort to blend sports with tourism, engaging local youth while positioning the islands as a hub for sports tourism. Entries for participation are open until September 25.
The celebrations also include a Thematic Seminar at the Tagore Government College of Education auditorium on September 27. Starting at 10 am, the two-hour event will feature experts sharing perspectives on sustainable development, eco-tourism, and community-based tourism models. The seminar will conclude with an interactive session, enabling participants to directly engage with speakers and exchange ideas. This intellectual platform underscores the message of this year’s theme by linking tourism with sustainable practices and long-term growth.
To highlight the islands’ cultural and culinary heritage, a Cuisine of India Festival will take place at ITF Ground in Sri Vijaya Puram on September 27 from 3 pm to 10 pm. Food vendors will present regional dishes, with the best three being selected for awards based on quality, presentation, and taste. Organized in association with the Food Safety Department, the festival aims to celebrate diversity while showcasing the islands’ rich food traditions to both residents and tourists.
The Department of Tourism has invited residents, entrepreneurs, photographers, sportspersons, and visitors to actively participate in the celebrations. Contact numbers for specific events have been shared, with designated officials available to assist participants in registration and queries. The initiative reflects the department’s effort to create inclusive celebrations that extend beyond tourists, involving local communities in the spirit of the day.
For the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, where tourism forms a cornerstone of economic and cultural identity, the 2025 celebrations are an opportunity to emphasize the balance between development and preservation. By linking underwater exploration, sports, intellectual discourse, and culinary traditions under a sustainability theme, the programme presents a holistic approach to tourism development.
World Tourism Day is observed globally on September 27 under the guidance of the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO). For the islands, participation in the global celebration also serves as a reminder of the responsibility to preserve natural ecosystems, engage local communities, and showcase the unique cultural identity of the region. The 2025 line-up promises to capture this spirit through events that are both engaging and meaningful.
