Port Blair, India – The Andaman & Nicobar Islands are making significant strides in grassroots sports development, with the sanctioning of three new Khelo India Centres (KICs) today. This move aims to further nurture athletic talent and promote a robust sports culture across the archipelago. Meanwhile, the Indian Coast Guard maintains its crucial role in maritime safety, as evidenced by a recent rescue operation.

In a substantial push towards strengthening sports infrastructure, the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports, through the Sports Authority of India (SAI), has approved the establishment of three new Khelo India Centres in the Union Territory. These new KICs will be dedicated to Hockey in the North & Middle Andaman District, and to Volleyball and Football in the Nicobar District. With these additions, the total number of Khelo India Centres in the Islands now stands at eight, covering a diverse range of disciplines across all three districts – South Andaman, North & Middle Andaman, and Nicobar. These centres are designed to provide young athletes with quality coaching by past champion athletes, alongside modern infrastructure, fostering a structured environment for skill development. The Directorate of Sports & Youth Affairs, A&N Administration, expressed gratitude for this support, reaffirming its commitment to expanding sports reach.

In terms of maritime security, the Indian Coast Guard successfully rescued two foreign nationals earlier this week (July 10, 2025) from a US-flagged sailing yacht, 'Sea Angel', which was stranded near Indira Point, off the Nicobar Islands. The vessel had issued a distress alert after encountering rough sea conditions, with its sail torn and propeller entangled. The quick response by the Indian Coast Guard Ship Rajveer highlights the continuous vigilance and critical role of maritime authorities in ensuring safety in the region's challenging waters.

These developments underscore the Andaman & Nicobar Administration's multi-faceted approach to progress, focusing on both human capital development through sports and ensuring safety and security in its strategically vital maritime domain.