Tarun Karthick
Sri Vijaya Puram, 09 May 2025
In a bid to promote environmental sustainability and honour the spirit of motherhood, India Tourism (Sri Vijaya Puram), Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, in collaboration with the Andaman Association of Tour Operators (AATO), conducted a tree plantation drive at the scenic Lakshmanpur Beach in Shaheed Dweep under the nationwide campaign ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’.
The initiative witnessed enthusiastic participation from key stakeholders including Mr. N. Velmurugan, Assistant Director, India Tourism; Mr. M. Vinod, President, AATO; and Mrs. Pinky Das, Pradhan of Shaheed Dweep. PRI members, Makruzz representatives, lifeguards, and visiting tourists also joined the drive, adding vibrancy to the community-led environmental effort.
As part of the event, tourists were encouraged to plant saplings — a symbolic gesture aligning with the campaign’s message of nurturing nature in tribute to motherhood. The drive aimed not only to enhance the island’s green cover but also to instill a sense of ecological responsibility among visitors and locals alike.
Addressing the gathering, Mr. N. Velmurugan highlighted the essence of the ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ initiative, underscoring the importance of community engagement in environmental conservation. Mr. M. Vinod expressed gratitude to India Tourism, the local panchayat, and all participants, reiterating AATO’s continued commitment to sustainable and eco-friendly tourism across the Andaman Islands.
The event concluded with a collective pledge to safeguard nature and promote greener, cleaner tourism destinations throughout the archipelago.