Tarun Karthick
Sri Vijaya Puram, 04 March 2025
The ICAR-Central Island Agricultural Research Institute (ICAR-CIARI) recently hosted a delegation from key travel and tour associations, including the Andaman Association of Tour Operators, Andaman Travel Agent Association, and Andaman Nicobar Tour Operators Association. The visit, held at ICAR-CIARI’s Sippighat and Garacharma farms, was part of an ongoing initiative to promote sustainable agro-eco tourism in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
Dr. Ekanth B. Chakurkar, Director of ICAR-CIARI, along with Dr. Ajit Arun Waman, Incharge of Sippighat Farm, led the delegation on an extensive tour of the research institute’s facilities. The team showcased innovative agricultural techniques, indigenous crop cultivation, and eco-friendly farming technologies developed to integrate agriculture with tourism. The initiative aligns with ICAR-CIARI’s mission to foster education, environmental conservation, and rural development through sustainable tourism.
During the interaction, representatives from the travel and tourism sector provided valuable insights on enhancing the agro-tourism experience. Their suggestions included live demonstrations of farming techniques, hands-on workshops on medicinal plants, and guided tours emphasising the rich biodiversity of the region. These recommendations will be incorporated into the institute’s evolving agro-eco tourism model, ensuring an immersive and educational experience for visitors.
The proposed Agro-Eco Tourism initiative aims to attract both domestic and international travellers, offering them a chance to explore the Andaman Islands’ agricultural heritage. Highlights of the initiative include a tour of the Nakshatra Garden, featuring celestial-themed plant species; the Horticulture Plant Propagation Unit, which educates visitors on advanced plant multiplication techniques; and the Dweep Medicinal Garden, home to an extensive collection of therapeutic plants.
Visitors will also have the opportunity to witness conservation efforts at the Ornamental Fish Breeding Unit, explore exotic avian species at the Fancy Birds section, and learn about coconut biodiversity at the World Coconut Germplasm Centre. For spice enthusiasts, the Plantation-Based Organic Spice Garden will provide insights into organic spice farming, while adventure seekers can engage in guided nature treks through Sippighat Farm. Additionally, a dedicated sale counter will offer fresh organic farm produce and locally grown spices for tourists to take home.
Through this initiative, ICAR-CIARI aims to strengthen the synergy between agriculture and tourism, fostering sustainable practices, biodiversity conservation, and organic farming while providing visitors with a unique and enriching experience in the Andaman Islands. (Story Based on PR)