Tarun Karthick
Sri Vijaya Puram, 09 May 2025
A delegation from the Andaman Association of Tour Operators (AATO), led by President Mr. M. Vinod, met with Air Marshal Saju Balakrishnan, PVSM, AVSM, VM, Commander-in-Chief of the Andaman and Nicobar Command (CINCAN), at the Command Headquarters in Sri Vijaya Puram.
The courtesy visit was aimed at expressing gratitude to the outgoing CINCAN for his distinguished service and for the Armed Forces’ continued role in ensuring security and stability—factors that have been vital for the growth of tourism in the islands.
During the interaction, the delegation raised key issues related to inter-island connectivity. Discussions focused on the critical need to boost air connectivity to remote locations, including the operational status of the Diglipur runway and the feasibility of using Dornier aircraft for civilian and tourist travel. The delegation also explored the possibility of expanding regional air services with support from the Andaman and Nicobar Command (ANC).
Air Marshal Balakrishnan acknowledged the tourism sector’s increasing contribution to the islands’ economy and assured the delegation that their suggestions would be considered within the Command’s operational limitations and priorities.
Also part of the delegation were AATO General Secretary Mr. K. Hamza and Joint Secretary Mr. Saikat Biswas. The association reiterated its commitment to working collaboratively with both the local administration and the armed forces to promote safe, sustainable, and accessible tourism throughout the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.