Sri Vijaya Puram, May 26: Tourism stakeholders in Swaraj Dweep have flagged operational challenges and infrastructure gaps even as the Andaman Association of Tour Operators (AATO) intensified efforts to promote monsoon tourism through a two-day familiarisation (FAM) tour held on May 23 and 24, 2026.
The initiative brought together around 60 travel agents, media representatives and digital creators to showcase the tourism potential of the island during the off-season, while also facilitating discussions on key issues affecting tourism activities.
As part of the programme, AATO conducted an interaction session at Symphony Palms Beach Resort with PRI members, government officials and local tourism stakeholders to address concerns related to tourism development, coordination and sustainability.
The session was attended by Ajit Kumar Roy, Pradhan of Govind Nagar Panchayat, Alok Mridha, Pradhan of Shyam Nagar Panchayat, Apurba Chandra Roy, Zilla Parishad Member, Inspector Rizwan, SHO Swaraj Dweep, along with boat and watersports operators and other stakeholders from the tourism sector.
Discussions during the interaction highlighted several operational issues, including the need for better quality boats for Elephant Beach, installation of CCTV cameras at key tourist locations, and concerns over fraudulent practices involving so-called complimentary snorkelling services. Stakeholders also raised the need to safeguard the interests of local operators and improve regulatory oversight.
Participants further deliberated on expanding tourism opportunities by opening new islands, expediting approvals for adventure activities and strengthening coordination among departments and tourism stakeholders. The need to broaden AATO’s membership base at Swaraj Dweep was also discussed.
The FAM tour itself focused on familiarising visiting delegates with tourism infrastructure, hospitality facilities and experiential offerings across the island. Participants explored various properties and locations, and noted the island’s natural appeal and tourism readiness despite seasonal challenges.
AATO President M. Vinod stated that such initiatives are aimed at strengthening tourism promotion while improving coordination between stakeholders and authorities. The association emphasised the importance of positioning the Andaman Islands as a viable destination during the monsoon period.
General Secretary Saikat Biswas acknowledged the support extended by government departments, PRI members, ferry operators, hospitality partners and local associations in facilitating the tour and interaction sessions.
The exercise reflects a broader push to sustain tourism activity beyond peak seasons while addressing persistent issues affecting service quality, safety and stakeholder coordination in Swaraj Dweep.
AATO reiterated its commitment to working with all stakeholders to promote tourism growth and strengthen the tourism ecosystem across the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
