Tarun Karthick
Sri Vijaya Puram, 24 September 2025
In a landmark move to strengthen and unify the tourism sector of the Andaman & Nicobar Islands, more than 20 leading tourism associations have come together to form a joint body named the Islanders Tourism Federation (ITF).
The decision to establish the federation was taken at a joint meeting held recently, where tourism stakeholders from across the islands discussed the need for a unified platform. ITF aims to safeguard the interests of local tourism operators while working collectively for the sustainable growth of the sector.
Mr. M. Vinod, President of the Andaman Association of Tour Operators (AATO), was unanimously elected as the first President of ITF. Outlining the immediate priorities of the federation, he said, “Our first agenda will be to bring all tourism associations and stakeholders under one umbrella and fight for the rights and welfare of the local tourism stakeholders of the islands.”
Alongside him, Mr. Abdul Majeed, General Secretary of FORTO, has been elected as General Secretary of ITF, while Mr. Anil Meshack will serve as Treasurer. The federation is expected to announce its complete list of office bearers shortly.
ITF also plans to hold consultations with the A&N Administration on pressing issues affecting the livelihood of those engaged in the islands’ tourism industry.
With its formation, the Islanders Tourism Federation marks a significant step towards ensuring a unified voice for the tourism sector, while advocating for the welfare of stakeholders and the sustainable development of island tourism.
