Tarun Karthick
Port Blair, 17 June 2024
The 2nd Andaman Tourism Road Show-2024, a major tourism promotion event organised by the Andaman Association of Tour Operators (AATO), concluded successfully, eliciting a highly encouraging response. The event took place from June 13th to June 17th across Port Blair, Swaraj Dweep, and Shaheed Dweep.
The inaugural ceremony, held at the Mansha Regency Hotel in Phoenix Bay on June 13th, was graced by the Chief Secretary of the Andaman & Nicobar Administration, Mr. Keshav Chandra. Organised in collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, the event saw participation from about 50 prominent tour operators affiliated with various organisations, including the Ministry of Tourism, IATO, TAAI, ATOAI, and ADTOI. The road show also attracted social media influencers, travel bloggers, and travel journalists, supported by all tourism stakeholders of the A&N Islands.
In his address, the Chief Secretary warmly welcomed the delegates, emphasising the growing potential of tourism in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands. He highlighted the recent developments that have significantly boosted the tourism sector, noting the islands’ natural diversity and pristine beauty. He proudly mentioned that one of the islands’ beaches has received Blue Flag Certification, with five more beaches expected to follow suit soon.
“Tourism and fisheries are crucial sectors for our region,” Mr. Chandra stated. “We are actively working to further develop these areas. Cinque Island has recently been opened to tourists, and we encourage visitors to enjoy its scenic beauty while preserving its natural environment.”
The Chief Secretary also outlined various tourism initiatives, including natural tourism, night kayaking, luxury tents, caravan tourism, astro tourism, and game fishing. He mentioned the administration’s efforts to promote heritage circuit tourism, showcasing the unique aspects of the A&N Islands to a global audience.
Mr. M. Vinod, President of AATO, in his welcome address, expressed optimism that the road show would enable delegates and tour operators from the mainland to experience the unique beauty of the islands. He highlighted the adventure sports, unique flora and fauna, and virgin beaches as the islands’ key attractions, urging delegates to promote Andaman as a year-round tourist destination.
Gratitude was extended to the administration and all tourism stakeholders for their support in organizing the event, which aims to elevate the profile of Andaman tourism both nationally and internationally. During the ceremony, the Chief Secretary also released a book celebrating 20 years of AATO’s achievements and launched the association’s new website.
A video showcasing the natural beauty and tourism potential of the A&N Islands was screened for the delegates, followed by visits to Swaraj Dweep, Shaheed Dweep, and other notable locations. These visits allowed tour operators and delegates to explore the islands’ historical and tourism significance, gaining a deeper understanding of their potential.
The successful conclusion of the 2nd Andaman Tourism Road Show-2024 has set a positive tone for the future of tourism in the region, promising continued growth and development.