Tarun Karthick
Port Blair, 28 December 2023
In a bid to bolster tourism in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Member of Parliament Mr. Kuldeep Rai Sharma put forth a proposal for the introduction of a Monsoon Festival during the opening ceremony of the Island Tourism Festival.
Mr. Sharma, representing the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, suggested the implementation of an additional event, similar to the annual Island Tourism Festival, within the initial months of the following year. He highlighted the resounding success of the Island Tourism Festival, traditionally held in the last month of each year, and advocated for a complementary Monsoon Festival during the first half of the year.
During his address, Mr. Sharma emphasised the potential of drawing tourists during the off-season, specifically the six-month period when the Andaman Islands experience monsoons while much of mainland India witnesses the summer season. He stressed that promoting events like the Monsoon Festival could substantially elevate tourism during this period.
Moreover, he pointed out that such initiatives could address unemployment concerns by creating job opportunities for the island’s youth. He expressed optimism about the future of Andaman’s tourism, especially with the recent inauguration of the new Airport Terminal Building and ambitious plans to establish direct connections with other countries.
Responding positively to the proposal, the Hon’ble Lt. Governor, in his address, pledged to organise one or two additional mega events akin to the Island Tourism Festival in the forthcoming year.
The proposed Monsoon Festival aims not only to capitalise on the off-season potential but also to diversify Andaman’s tourism offerings, potentially bringing economic prosperity and employment opportunities to the region.