A proposal to establish a “Tamil Nadu Illam” in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands has received a positive response from the Tamil Nadu Tourism Minister, put forward during the IITM Chennai Tourism Trade Fair at the Chennai Trade Centre, Nandambakkam.
Simson, President of the Andaman Nicobar Tour Operators Association (ANTOA), met Tamil Nadu Tourism Minister S. Rajesh Kumar at the event and submitted a memorandum requesting the setting up of a Tamil Nadu Illam in the islands.
According to ANTOA, the Minister assured that the state government would examine the proposal favourably and initiate talks with the Andaman & Nicobar Administration soon to move forward on establishing the facility.
The proposed Illam is envisioned as a hub for preserving and promoting Tamil language, literature, art and culture among the Tamil community living in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands.
It is also meant to function as a facilitation and assistance centre for tourists, students and members of the public travelling to the islands from Tamil Nadu
During the meeting, Simson highlighted the long-standing Tamil presence in the islands and the community’s interest in having a dedicated cultural and support centre to strengthen ties between Tamil Nadu and the Andaman & Nicobar Islands.