Tarun Karthick
Campbell Bay, 02 December 2024
As the Island Tourism Festival (ITF) 2024 approaches, the Department of Art and Culture, in collaboration with the Department of IP&T, has announced an exciting lineup of cultural programs across South Andaman and North & Middle Andaman districts. Performances are planned at venues including the ITF Main Pavilion, Wandoor, Wimberlygunj, Baratang, Rangat, Mayabunder, Diglipur, Swaraj Dweep, Shaheed Dweep, and Little Andaman (Hutbay).
Local cultural organizations have been invited to participate in these celebrations, offering a vibrant platform to showcase art, culture, and tradition to both tourists and residents. Adding to the excitement, mainland artists will also perform, bringing high-quality entertainment to the communities.
However, a glaring omission has raised questions and sparked disappointment among residents of Nicobar District. Much like ITF 2023, this year’s festivities once again exclude Nicobar District entirely. Despite covering all major population centres in the South Andaman and North & Middle Andaman districts, no cultural programs have been planned for Car Nicobar, Kamorta, Campbell Bay, or other Nicobar settlements during ITF 2024, which is scheduled from December 27 to 31.
For the residents and government employees stationed in Nicobar, the absence of these programs means welcoming the new year without the shared joy and festivity ITF promises to other districts.
While the logistics of organising events in Nicobar District may pose challenges, the persistent exclusion points to a deeper issue—an apparent indifference on the part of the authorities. Residents feel that the government’s approach lacks inclusivity, leaving an entire district disconnected from one of the region’s most celebrated festivals.
The Nicobar District, with its rich cultural heritage and vibrant communities, deserves equal participation in the festival. Hosting performances by both mainland and local artists in places like Car Nicobar, Kamorta, and Campbell Bay would not only celebrate the region’s diversity but also foster a sense of belonging among its residents.
The government must rise above bureaucratic inertia and logistical excuses to ensure that ITF 2024 becomes a festival for all districts of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. It’s time for authorities to revamp their plans and extend the festivities to Nicobar, allowing its residents to partake in the joy and cultural richness the festival promises.
Ignoring the Nicobar District for another year would only deepen the sense of exclusion its people have endured for far too long.