Sri Vijaya Puram | January 04, 2026
A demand has been raised before the Andaman and Nicobar Administration seeking the declaration of Makar Sankranti as a public holiday on January 14, 2026, in the Union Territory of Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
In a representation submitted to the Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Mr. Rakeshwar Lall, State President of Hindu Rashtra Shakti, stated that Makar Sankranti is one of India’s most ancient and widely celebrated festivals, observed with deep religious faith, cultural traditions, and social harmony. He emphasized that a large section of the island population, including government employees, workers, students, and the general public, observes the festival with devotion and customary rituals.
The memorandum pointed out that despite the festival’s national importance and its recognition as a public holiday in several States and Union Territories, Makar Sankranti has not been declared a public holiday in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. This, it was stated, causes inconvenience to the public and affects the religious sentiments of islanders, as many employees are compelled to attend duties and are unable to celebrate the festival with their families.
Citing the need for cultural inclusiveness, public faith, and administrative sensitivity, the organization urged the Administration to consider declaring Makar Sankranti as an official public holiday in the Islands. The demand, according to the representation, reflects the collective sentiment of the people.
