Tarun Karthick
Sri Vijaya Puram, 14 July 2025
In a vibrant celebration of the 76th Van Mahotsava, the South Andaman Forest Division successfully organized an Inter-Panchayat Knockout Football Tournament from July 1 to 12, 2025, at the Mini Stadium in Wimberlygunj. The tournament was aimed at promoting environmental awareness among youth and the wider community through the spirit of sportsmanship.
The event saw enthusiastic participation from Panchayats across the region, each fielding a football team for the tournament. In a thrilling final match, Gram Panchayat Mannarghat clinched victory over Gram Panchayat Stewartgunj with a score of 2-0.
Dr. A. Anil Kumar, IFS, Chief Conservator of Forests (Territorial), Department of Environment and Forests, Andaman & Nicobar Islands, graced the final as the chief guest. Also present were Mr. Ashwin J. Parihar, IFS, Divisional Forest Officer, South Andaman, and Mr. R. S. Sharath, SFS, Assistant Conservator of Forests (HQ).
In line with the ongoing nationwide campaign ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ 2.0, initiated by the Hon’ble Prime Minister of India, seedlings of fruit-bearing trees were distributed to all participating Gram Panchayat Pradhans and players to further reinforce the message of environmental conservation.
The event also recognized the dedication and exemplary service of three forest guards—Mr. P. Mohd. Shafique, Mr. Mahananda Gharami, and Mr. P. Viyakanta—who were awarded commendation certificates and mementos for their outstanding performance in detecting forest and wildlife offence cases during 2024–25.
The tournament concluded on a high note, blending sportsmanship with a strong message of ecological responsibility and community engagement.
