Tarun Karthick
Port Blair, 12 August 2023
In a significant stride towards promoting sustainable eco-tourism and conserving the rich avian diversity of the region, the Directorate of Information, Publicity & Tourism, A&N Administration, has unveiled a pioneering draft Bird Watching Policy.
Renowned for its unparalleled biodiversity and a myriad of avian species, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands have emerged as a prime destination for bird enthusiasts and eco-tourism aficionados. To safeguard this natural treasure and foster responsible bird watching practices, the creation of a comprehensive policy had become imperative.
The Bird Watching Policy is a blueprint designed to harness bird watching as an avenue for environmental education, sustainable tourism, and scientific research. By outlining guidelines for ethical bird watching activities, the policy aims to strike a balance between the burgeoning interest in bird watching and the conservation of the islands’ diverse bird population.
As part of an inclusive approach, the draft policy is now open for public feedback. Citizens, tourism stakeholders, various departments, and concerned individuals are encouraged to provide their insights, suggestions, and comments. The draft policy is accessible on the official website of the Directorate of Information, Publicity & Tourism at https://www.andamantourism.gov.in.
To ensure a thorough and collaborative process, the Directorate of IP&T is inviting all feedback to be submitted within a 30-day window, commencing from August 12, 2023. This engagement underscores the Administration’s commitment to a participatory approach, valuing the input of stakeholders and the public in shaping a sustainable and responsible bird watching framework.