A delegation from the Andaman Association of Tour Operators (AATO), led by President M. Vinod, met with Air Marshal Saju Balakrishnan, PVSM, AVSM, VM, Commander-in-Chief of the Andaman & Nicobar Command (CINCAN), at the Command Headquarters in Port Blair. The courtesy visit aimed to extend gratitude to the outgoing CINCAN for his exceptional service and for the consistent support provided by the Armed Forces in ensuring regional security—an essential foundation for the growth of tourism in the islands.
During the meeting, the AATO delegation addressed several critical issues concerning inter-island connectivity, particularly the role of the Andaman & Nicobar Command in improving air access to remote locations. Discussions focused on the status of the Diglipur runway, the potential use of Dornier aircraft for civilian and tourist travel, and broader opportunities to enhance regional air services with ANC’s logistical and infrastructural support.
Air Marshal Saju Balakrishnan acknowledged the tourism sector’s increasing contribution to the islands’ economy and expressed appreciation for AATO’s proactive engagement. He assured the delegation that the suggestions would be taken into consideration within the operational parameters of the Command.
The delegation, which also included AATO General Secretary K. Hamza and Joint Secretary Saikat Biswas, reaffirmed the association’s commitment to working closely with the Andaman & Nicobar Administration and the Armed Forces to promote safe, sustainable, and accessible tourism throughout the region.
