In a strategic push to position the Andaman and Nicobar Islands as a world-class tourism destination, the Union Government and local administration have unveiled a comprehensive development roadmap that includes the establishment of four new five-star resorts and a host of infrastructure upgrades.

Chief Secretary Chandra Bhushan Kumar, in a statement to PTI, emphasized that the initiative aims to align the islands with global tourism standards by combining modern infrastructure with ecological sensitivity and cultural preservation.

“The Andaman and Nicobar archipelago, comprising 836 islands, is a rare blend of natural beauty, historical depth, and adventure tourism. We aim to elevate it to international tourism standards,” Kumar said.

As part of the larger plan, the administration is also establishing a dedicated yacht marina to enhance cruise and private yacht tourism. The government has issued an Expression of Interest (EOI) to signal its intention to improve premium tourism offerings in the region.

The roadmap also includes:
Reviving heritage sites such as the Cellular Jail, which is being proposed for UNESCO World Heritage status, in tandem with Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose and Viper Islands as part of a historical tourism circuit.
Expanding eco-tourism and adventure sports activities with new standards for safety and operator training.

Creating employment opportunities for the local population through skilling initiatives in hospitality, adventure tourism, and cultural guiding.

Tourist footfall figures from the Department of Tourism further validate the rising popularity of the islands. In 2022, the territory recorded 2,35,061 domestic and 4,461 international visitors. By 2023, this rose to 3,23,619 domestic and 9,025 international travellers, reflecting a strong upward trend. Projections for 2025 indicate a further 25% increase in arrivals.

The Andaman and Nicobar Islands boast clear turquoise waters, vibrant coral reefs, pristine beaches, and historical colonial landmarks, creating a unique opportunity to offer a premium tourism experience that balances growth with sustainability.

Source: CNBC-TV18 | PTI

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