Tarun Karthick
Sri Vijaya Puram, 10 October 2025
Hindu Rashtra Shakti has commended the Andaman & Nicobar Administration for the recent launch of the fortnightly cruise service from Sri Vijaya Puram to Barren Island, India’s only active volcano, highlighting it as a landmark initiative aimed at boosting tourism in the islands.
In a letter addressed to the Lieutenant Governor of the Andaman & Nicobar Administration, the organization praised the move for opening up a unique experience for tourists and enhancing the islands’ tourism profile. However, it urged the administration to reconsider the current fare structure to make the service more accessible to a wider audience, including students, local residents, and budget-conscious travellers.
According to Hindu Rashtra Shakti, the existing fares are as follows: Coral Suite (2-berth) – ₹8,310 per head, Reef Suite (4-berth) – ₹6,340 per head, Island Breeze (6-berth) – ₹4,290 per head, and Lagoon Dormitory (16/24-berth) – ₹3,180 per head. The organization expressed concerns that these rates may restrict participation and limit the cruise’s potential impact.
The letter emphasized that a more affordable pricing model could not only democratise access to this rare volcanic experience but also stimulate economic growth in the region by attracting higher passenger volumes and increasing spending in hospitality, transport, and local commerce. Hindu Rashtra Shakti urged the administration to adopt a “more tourists, more growth” approach to ensure the long-term success and popularity of the cruise service.
The organization extended its gratitude to the administration for its efforts in developing the islands and expressed hope that its appeal would be considered favourably. Copies of the letter were also sent to the Chief Secretary of the A&N Administration and various print media outlets.
