Sri Vijaya Puram, April 18: The Tourism Department of the Andaman and Nicobar Administration, in collaboration with the Andaman and Nicobar Environment Team (ANET)-Dakshin Foundation, has initiated a four-day training programme to equip eco-guides with skills to conduct inter-tidal walks, aiming to strengthen sustainable tourism practices in the islands.
The programme is scheduled across four dates, April 17, 25, 27 and 30, and involves participants selected from previous batches of Tour Guide and Eco Tour Guide training programmes conducted by the Department. Officials said the initiative is designed to enhance guiding capabilities while introducing an experiential tourism component centred on inter-tidal ecosystems.
The training began with a classroom session at the ANET field station in North Wandoor, where resource persons Madhuri Mondal and Tanmay Wagh conducted detailed sessions on inter-tidal ecology. Participants were introduced to tidal zones, wave patterns, and coastal currents, along with the ecological significance and biodiversity of inter-tidal habitats.
The session also focused on conservation aspects and responsible tourism practices, including guidelines for interacting with fragile marine environments. Trainers outlined essential techniques for engaging visitors effectively while ensuring minimal ecological disturbance.
Following the theoretical component, participants undertook a field-based inter-tidal walk at a rocky shoreline opposite the Science Centre. The practical session enabled trainees to observe marine ecosystems in real-time and apply their learning under expert supervision.
As part of the programme, a separate inter-tidal walk was also organised for tour operators and tourists, offering them direct exposure to coastal biodiversity. During the walk, participants encountered marine organisms such as sea cucumbers, brittle stars, rock crabs and sea urchins in their natural habitat.
Researchers from ANET guided the group through species identification and explained ecological interactions and conservation measures, reinforcing the importance of preserving sensitive coastal zones.
Officials said the initiative aims to build a cadre of trained guides capable of delivering informed and responsible eco-tourism experiences, while raising awareness about the ecological value of inter-tidal regions.
The programme concluded with active participation from trainees and visitors, reflecting growing interest in nature-based tourism activities in the islands.
