The Tourism Department of the Andaman & Nicobar Administration will conduct a Skill Development Training Programme for Astro Guides in Little Andaman from March 5 to 7 and in Mayabunder from March 10 to 12, as part of its ongoing efforts to diversify tourism offerings in the Islands.
The programme is a continuation of an earlier announcement issued on February 14 and is aimed at building local capacity in the emerging field of astro-tourism. Officials said the training will equip participants with essential knowledge and practical skills related to night sky observation, basic astronomy, telescope handling, interpretation techniques and responsible astro-tourism practices.
The initiative is positioned as a step towards expanding experience-based and sustainable tourism across the Islands. By training local youth and tourism stakeholders as astro guides, the Department seeks to create new livelihood avenues while enhancing the visitor experience in relatively less explored destinations.
Little Andaman and Mayabunder have been identified as venues for the current phase of the programme. These locations are considered suitable for night sky observation due to comparatively lower light pollution and open viewing conditions. The Department aims to leverage such natural advantages to promote structured astro-tourism activities.
Interested local youth, tourism stakeholders and nature enthusiasts have been encouraged to participate in the training. The programme is open to candidates below 40 years of age as on March 1, 2026, with a minimum educational qualification of 12th pass from a recognised board or university.
Application forms can be downloaded from the official website of the Andaman and Nicobar Tourism Department. Completed forms are to be submitted to the Planning Section of the Directorate of Tourism on or before March 3 by 3 pm.
The Department indicated that the training will focus on both theoretical and practical components. Participants are expected to gain hands-on exposure to telescope operations and guided sky interpretation sessions, which are critical for conducting structured astro-tourism activities.
Astro-tourism has emerged as a niche segment within the broader travel industry, attracting visitors interested in celestial events, constellations and night photography. By introducing skill-based training at the local level, the Administration aims to prepare a trained pool of guides capable of supporting this segment in a responsible manner.
Officials stated that the programme forms part of a broader strategy to diversify tourism products beyond conventional beach and nature-based offerings. Experience-driven activities such as guided night sky tours are being viewed as potential attractions that can extend visitor stays and create supplementary income streams for local communities.
The Department has urged eligible candidates to complete the application process within the stipulated timeline to ensure participation. Further details regarding the training schedule and curriculum are available through the Directorate of Tourism.
