Tarun Karthick
Port Blair, 26 April 2024
Admiral DK Joshi, PVSM, AVSM, YSM, NM, VSM (Retd.), Hon’ble Lt. Governor, A&N Islands and Vice-Chairman, Islands Development Agency, presided over the second Interactive Meeting at Raj Niwas on April 25, 2024, to strategise the proposed SCUBA Diving World Record attempt by divers in A&N Islands, aiming to bolster the Islands’ reputation as a premier diving and tourist destination in the Indian Ocean Region.
The gathering, attended by a multitude of stakeholders, delved into the intricacies of orchestrating the record-breaking event slated for October-November 2024, emphasising the significance of synchronised efforts from all involved parties for its success.
Expressing delight at the fervent participation of stakeholders, the Lt. Governor stressed the paramount importance of adhering to the established timeline and highlighted the collaborative spirit required for achieving the ambitious goal.
Mr. Keshav Chandra, IAS, Chief Secretary, A&N Administration, outlined the establishment of two sub-committees – one focusing on planning and the other on execution – comprising representatives from tourism and dive associations tasked with ensuring meticulous preparation and seamless implementation within the designated timeframe.
Further insights into the preparatory deliberations were provided by Mr. Vishwendra, Secretary (Tourism), who elaborated on the extensive consultations and interactive sessions held with tourism stakeholders and dive associations to fine-tune the logistical aspects of the mega event.
The meeting saw the participation of distinguished figures including Mr. Devesh Chandra Srivastva, IPS, Director General of Police, Ms. Nandini Paliwal, IAS, Commissioner-cum-Secretary, A&N Administration, along with senior officials from various administrative sectors, Andaman & Nicobar Forest, Andaman & Nicobar Command, and representatives from tourism and dive industries.