Access To Uninhabited Islands Among Measures Planned To Boost Andaman & Nicobar Tourism

In the new initiative, beaches have been made accessible to tourists during late-night hours, and more airline operators have been contacted to make travel to the island more affordable.

In a bid to attract more tourists, the Andaman and Nicobar administration has taken numerous initiatives, including granting access to uninhabited islands, allowing beaches to remain open until late at night, and reaching out to more airline operators. According to PTI, Chief Secretary Keshav Chandra mentioned that there would also be eco-friendly tourism infrastructure on four islands and 11 tourist sites.

"The administration has taken various initiatives towards the promotion of tourism, such as the development of a five-star property at Megapode in Port Blair in PPP [Public-Private Partnership] mode and leasing out land at Radha Nagar Beach in Swaraj Dweep (Havelock Island)," he said. The initiative comes amid the row over 'Lakshasweep-Maldives' tourism row.

In the new initiative, beaches have been made accessible to tourists during late-night hours, and more airline operators have been contacted to make travel to the island more affordable.

"Beaches are now open during late-night hours for tourists to enjoy the heavenly sight of the landscape as well as the bioluminescence. Efforts are being made to reach out to more airline operators, leading to competitive and affordable pricing of tickets for tourists," Chandra added.

The recent Maldives row was sparked when now-suspended Maldivian ministers criticised PM Modi for "trying to boost tourism in the Union Territory".

According to PTI, the administration is also actively exploring options to establish international connectivity from Port Blair, with a particular focus on Southeast Asian countries where the tourism sector plays a substantial role in the economy.

This could enable cheaper air connectivity to these countries owing to their proximity to Port Blair, Chandra said.

Also, to promote tourism, access to various uninhabited islands has been granted, with Cinque Island recently opened for day tourism, falling under both high-value and low-volume tourism categories. Additionally, plans are underway to launch seaplane services from Port Blair to different inter-island destinations in the near future, Chandra told PTI.

"Various policies for the promotion of tourism activities like bird watching, caravan, houseboat, and luxury tent accommodation are also in the final stages," the chief secretary said.

Efforts are underway to enhance the nightlife experience, with existing features such as a night-cruise dinner facility already available in Port Blair. Other attractions will include houseboat rides and night kayaking to contribute to the overall nocturnal entertainment offerings.