Three Torches, Three Districts, Three Olympic Values: Lt Governor Flags Off Fit India Andaman Nicobar Khel Mahotsav, Launching National Sports Day 2025 Celebrations in Andaman.
Photo BS News Agency.
BS News Agency Port Blair, 15 August 2025: The Independence Day celebrations at Netaji Stadium, Sri Vijayapuram, began with a defining sporting moment. The Hon'ble Lieutenant Governor of Andaman & Nicobar Islands launched three Olympic-style "Flame of Fitness" torches, each symbolising one of the Olympic values - Excellence, Friendship, and Respect - marking the start of the Fit India Andaman Nicobar Khel Mahotsav and officially launching the islands' celebrations for National Sports Day 2025.
Each torch was handed over to a distinguished athlete representing one of the three districts, entrusted with carrying the flame across the islands.
Athletes Chosen to Carry the Flame
Shri Anand Lawson (Nicobar District) - One of the most celebrated footballers from the islands, Lawson led the Nicobar team to gold at the 1984 Subroto Mukherjee Cup, bringing national attention to the region's sporting talent. Receiving the torch, he said: "Carrying the Flame of Fitness for Nicobar takes me back to my playing days. I hope it inspires our youth to take up sport."
Ms Prachi Toppo (South Andaman District) - A para-athlete who transformed adversity into achievement, Toppo won gold at the 21st National Para Athletics Championship held in March 2023 in Balewadi, Pune. Holding the torch, she remarked: "This torch is a reminder that no barrier is too big if you believe in yourself."
Regina Kiro (North & Middle Andaman District) - A decorated canoeist and kayaker who has represented India internationally, Kiro has a medal record that includes bronze at the Asian Championships and 47 gold, 40 silver, and 17 bronze at the national level. Accepting the torch, she said: "I want this flame to reach every shore and encourage people to stay active."
Exclusively Designed and Handcrafted for the Event
Each torch has been exclusively designed and handcrafted for the Fit India Andaman Nicobar Khel Mahotsav, combining local heritage with global sporting identity. The crown takes the silhouette of the Cellular Jail, honouring the islands' role in the freedom movement. The engravings of the dugong and hornbill celebrate the islands' biodiversity, while the mangrove root motif symbolises resilience. The Olympic rings reinforce the values of Excellence, Friendship, and Respect.