Port Blair: The Andaman & Nicobar Islands took another significant step towards nurturing a vibrant water sports culture as the Summer Sailing Camp for school children concluded on a high note today, with young participants showcasing their newly acquired sailing skills at the Water Sports Complex, Marina Park. The initiative not only introduced children to the thrill of sailing but also reinforced the Administration’s vision of promoting sustainable tourism and preparing a new generation of competitive sailors.
The Summer Sailing Camp, organised by the Andaman Nicobar Sailing Club under ANIIDCO Limited, concluded with an impressive sailing demonstration by budding sailors, witnessed by Chief Secretary Dr. Chandra Bhushan Kumar, who felicitated the top 10 student sailors with certificates during the valedictory function.
Congratulating ANIIDCO for successfully conducting the camp, the Chief Secretary said such initiatives equip children with valuable life skills such as discipline, teamwork, courage, punctuality and resilience. He noted that these qualities would help shape responsible and confident citizens capable of meeting future challenges.
Highlighting the Islands’ vast potential for water-based recreation, Dr. Kumar referred to the successful surfing festival held recently in Little Andaman and stressed the need to diversify water sports to attract more tourists while encouraging island youth to actively participate in adventure sports.
The Chief Secretary also presented certificates to the 10 students selected for a year-long advanced training programme to prepare for the forthcoming National Sailing Championship on the mainland. He later flagged off a sailing demonstration by the selected trainees.
Commissioner-cum-Secretary, A&N Administration, Ms. Chanchal Yadav, said the overwhelming response from children and parents reflected the growing interest in sailing among islanders. Describing sailing as an eco-friendly sport, she said it aligns with the Administration’s vision of promoting sustainable tourism while creating new livelihood opportunities for local youth. She thanked the instructors, the Skiff Sailing Association, the Indian Navy and the Police Marine Force for their support. Participation certificates were distributed to all children who attended the camp.
Amish Ved of the Skiff Sailing Association expressed satisfaction over the enthusiastic response from participants, while Commodore Nitesh Garg, NAVCC, A&N Command, hoped such sailing camps would become a regular feature in the Islands.
Earlier, Secretary of the Andaman Nicobar Sailing Club, Mohd. Pervaiz, said the camp had helped children develop confidence, leadership, resilience and teamwork. He also announced plans to organise a National Sailing Championship in the Islands this December in collaboration with the Tourism Department and the Skiff Sailing Association.
