A delegation of over 20 members from the Andaman Association of Tour Operators (AATO) is participating in the Travel and Tourism Fair (TTF) Kolkata 2025, being held from July 10 to 12 at Biswa Bangla Mela Prangan. The participation is part of the association’s broader outreach strategy to position the Andaman Islands as a key tourism destination.
Led by its president, the AATO team is using the platform to engage with national travel industry stakeholders and introduce the unique offerings of the Andaman archipelago to prospective buyers. These include adventure activities, eco-tourism, cultural experiences, and remote beaches, elements the delegation believes can boost the region’s presence on the national tourism map.
TTF Kolkata, known as one of India’s largest travel trade events, is hosting tourism boards, tour operators, travel agents, and hoteliers from across the country. The Andaman Pavilion, featuring AATO’s promotional displays, has reportedly attracted steady footfall from travel agents, media representatives, and members of the public showing interest in the region’s scenic and experiential tourism products.
Alongside TTF, AATO members also participated in the Connect Bengal – 4 event, held on July 10 at Hotel Hyatt Regency in Kolkata. Organised by the Travel Agents Association of Bengal (TAAB), the event provided additional opportunities for networking and regional tourism collaboration. It was attended by leading tourism officials and business representatives, including the chairman of the Chhattisgarh Tourism Board.
The 25-member AATO team used Connect Bengal to explore new partnership avenues and reinforce linkages with mainland tourism promoters. According to statements made during the event, such platforms are seen as essential in boosting visibility for smaller destinations and facilitating mutual cooperation.
Participation in back-to-back tourism fairs underscores AATO’s strategic push to widen its reach and promote sustainable tourism in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands. The association has been actively engaging with tourism bodies and government institutions to enhance connectivity, develop new circuits, and integrate local communities into the tourism economy.
The association’s presence at major industry events in metro cities like Kolkata reflects a coordinated effort to bring attention to island tourism at a time when travellers are increasingly seeking nature-driven and less crowded destinations. The island’s natural assets and emerging infrastructure are expected to appeal to a wider domestic and international audience.
AATO’s consistent engagement in such events aligns with the broader tourism development vision of the islands, which aims to balance ecological preservation with economic opportunity. With ongoing infrastructure projects and increased air connectivity, the islands are likely to see a growing number of tourists in upcoming seasons.
