The 2nd Andaman Tourism Road Show 2024, held from June 13th to June 17th in Port Blair, Swaraj Dweep, and Shaheed Dweep, received an encouraging response. The event was inaugurated by Keshav Chandra, Chief Secretary of the Andaman & Nicobar Administration, at the Mansha Regency in Phoenix Bay on June 13, 2024. Organized by the Andaman Association of Tour Operators (AATO) in collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, the event saw participation from about 50 prominent tour operators from organizations such as IATO, TAAI, ATOAI, and ADTOI, along with delegates from various parts of the country. The road show also attracted social media influencers, travel bloggers, and travel journalists, with support from all tourism stakeholders of the A&N Islands.
In his address, the Chief Secretary warmly welcomed the delegates and highlighted the recent developments that have significantly boosted the tourism sector in the Andaman Islands. He emphasized the rich diversity and pristine beauty of the islands, noting that they offer much more for tourists to explore and enjoy.
The Chief Secretary pointed out that the Andaman & Nicobar Islands are among the most beautiful places in the world, with one beach already holding Blue Flag Certification. He mentioned that five more beaches are in the advanced stages of obtaining this certification, with progress being monitored weekly. He stressed the importance of tourism and fisheries as key sectors for the region and shared that Cinque Island has been opened for tourists, encouraging visitors to appreciate its scenic beauty while preserving its natural environment. He also outlined various initiatives by the Administration to boost tourism, including the promotion of natural tourism, night kayaking, luxury tents, caravan tourism, astro tourism, and game fishing. He added that efforts are underway to make Heritage Circuit Tourism a reality soon, with the support of the Government of India.
M. Vinod, President of AATO, in his welcome address, expressed hope that the Road Show would help delegates and tour operators from the mainland experience the unique beauty of the islands, thereby promoting ‘Brand Andaman’. He highlighted the A&N Islands as a hub of adventure sports, unique flora and fauna, and pristine beaches, urging the delegates to promote Andaman Tourism as a year-round destination. He thanked the Administration and all tourism stakeholders for their support in organizing the road show, which will further enhance the islands’ tourism profile both nationally and globally.
During the event, the Chief Secretary released a book celebrating AATO’s 20 years of achievements and launched AATO’s new website. He also toured the exhibits and interacted with stakeholders. A video showcasing the natural beauty and tourism potential of the A&N Islands was screened for the delegates.
Over the four days, tour operators and delegates visited Swaraj Dweep, Shaheed Dweep, and other notable sites of historical and tourism significance to better understand the tourism potential of the Andaman Islands.
