Sri Vijaya Puram | January 22, 2026
In line with the guidance and suggestion of Union Home Minister Mr. Amit Shah, the Andaman and Nicobar Administration has initiated measures to strengthen awareness among children and youth about India’s freedom struggle and the ideals of Veer Savarkar. The initiative follows Mr. Shah’s address during a cultural programme held at Sri Vijaya Puram on December 12, 2025, to mark the 115th anniversary of the poem “Sagar Pran Talmalala” composed by Veer Savarkar.
As part of this effort, the Art & Culture Department of the A&N Administration has urged educational institutions across the islands to facilitate student visits to the National Memorial, Cellular Jail. The visits aim to instil a sense of patriotism among students by offering firsthand exposure to the sacrifices made by freedom fighters imprisoned at the historic jail. Students from schools, colleges and other educational institutions are allowed to visit the Cellular Jail free of cost.
According to official data, participation in educational visits has witnessed a significant rise over the past year. While 51 schools with 3,082 students visited the Cellular Jail in 2024, the number increased to 144 schools from across the Andaman and Nicobar Islands with 9,395 students in 2025, reflecting more than a threefold growth in student participation.
Educational institutions interested in organising such visits have been advised to contact the Office of the Art & Culture Department in person or through email at artand.culture@and.nic.in.
Meanwhile, the Administration is also planning a series of awareness-oriented academic activities to further inspire the younger generation. Proposed initiatives include slogan competitions at the school level and book review programmes at the college and higher education level, focusing on the life, works and contributions of Veer Savarkar.
Through these measures, the Art & Culture Department has reiterated its commitment to promoting historical awareness, preserving cultural heritage and ensuring that the legacy and ideals of Veer Savarkar continue to inspire future generations.
