Sri Vijaya Puram | October 7, 2026
The South Andaman Forest Division organised the Wildlife Week Cup–2026, an open-to-all knockout football tournament as part of the 72nd Wildlife Week celebrations, with the aim of promoting awareness about wildlife and nature conservation among youth and the general public through football.
The tournament commenced on September 24, 2026, with 22 teams participating in 21 matches played over 13 days. The tournament attracted around 3,500 spectators from 11 Gram Panchayats. Teams from Diglipur, Baratang and Sri Vijaya Puram also participated, providing a wider platform to spread the message of wildlife conservation.
Carrying the theme “Team Up for Wildlife”, the tournament highlighted that, just as success in football depends on teamwork, wildlife conservation also requires the collective participation of communities, institutions and individuals. The matches were conducted in a peaceful and sporting atmosphere, promoting discipline, teamwork and mutual respect.
The grand finale was held on October 7 at the Mini Stadium, Wimberlygunj, between War Boys (MVFC) and United Sporting Club. Dr. S. Dinesh Kannan, IFS, Chief Conservator of Forests (Territorial)/(R&WP)/(D&U)/(Wildlife), graced the occasion and witnessed the final.
After an exciting contest, United Sporting Club emerged as the winners, while War Boys (MVFC) finished as the runners-up.
The tournament provided an engaging platform for the Forest Department to connect with local communities and youth while conveying the message that wildlife conservation is a shared responsibility and that everyone has a role to play in protecting nature.
