The Andaman & Nicobar Administration is set to shine a spotlight on the islands’ deep historical roots with a public lecture dedicated to heritage tourism. Scheduled for August 23, 2025, at 11 a.m., the event will be held in the Conference Hall of the Directorate of Disaster Management in Sri Vijaya Puram.
Organised by the Tourism Department, the lecture, titled Heritage Tourism: History of Andaman and Nicobar-Ancient & Pre-colonial Era, will be delivered by Dr. Pronob Sircar of the Tribal Welfare Department, an expert in the history and culture of the archipelago. The initiative is part of a broader push to promote tourism during the offseason while nurturing awareness and appreciation for the region’s cultural and historical legacy.
The Andaman & Nicobar Islands, while often associated with pristine beaches and marine biodiversity, also carry a long and complex human history. From prehistoric settlements and indigenous traditions to episodes of colonial contact and trade, the islands have been shaped by multiple cultural influences over centuries. The upcoming lecture aims to connect these historical narratives with present-day tourism opportunities, offering residents and visitors a deeper context for their engagement with the islands.
Tourism officials say the event is designed for a wide audience, including students, historians, researchers, tourists, and members of the general public. By combining academic insight with accessible storytelling, the session seeks to bridge the gap between scholarly knowledge and public interest. Participants will be encouraged to explore how heritage tourism can support cultural preservation while contributing to the local economy.
Heritage tourism has been identified as a promising growth area for the Andaman & Nicobar Islands, particularly in balancing economic development with sustainable practices. By highlighting archaeological sites, indigenous traditions, and historical landmarks alongside natural attractions, the administration hopes to diversify the tourism portfolio and reduce seasonal fluctuations in visitor numbers.
The lecture also aligns with national and global trends where travellers increasingly seek immersive cultural experiences. For the Andaman & Nicobar Islands, this means positioning themselves not just as a tropical getaway but as a living museum of human history, where multiple eras and cultures intersect.
In practical terms, heritage tourism in the islands faces both opportunities and challenges. While there is no shortage of compelling stories and sites, infrastructure development, site preservation, and community involvement remain critical factors. Events like the upcoming lecture are seen as a way to cultivate both public support and informed engagement with these issues.
The August 23 session is expected to generate significant interest, especially from educational institutions and tourism operators who see heritage-based offerings as a way to expand their reach. It also forms part of a larger offseason tourism strategy that includes cultural festivals, guided history tours, and thematic exhibitions aimed at attracting visitors year-round.
By investing in both knowledge-sharing and practical promotion, the Tourism Department hopes to create a lasting appreciation for the islands’ historical wealth, ensuring that the past remains an integral part of their future.
