The Andaman and Nicobar Islands launched their first Island Bird Festival on 14 February, aiming to raise awareness about local bird species and promote eco-tourism. The event brings together conservationists, researchers, and nature enthusiasts to explore and celebrate the islands’ unique avian diversity.
The inaugural ceremony was attended by Chief Secretary of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Dr. Chandra Bhushan Kumar, IAS, who served as the chief guest. Principal Chief Conservator of Forests, Sanjay Kumar Sinha, IFS, along with senior officials from the Forest Department and other line departments, were also present to mark the beginning of the four-day festival.
In his address, the Chief Secretary highlighted the ecological importance of the islands, which are home to a variety of endemic and migratory bird species. He emphasized the festival’s role in fostering conservation awareness, encouraging responsible tourism, and involving local communities in protecting the region’s natural heritage.
The festival features bird-watching trails, expert talks, photography sessions, and interactive programs designed to educate participants about avian diversity and the need for environmental preservation. A total of 38 participants, including 31 from mainland India and seven local islanders, are taking part in the event, creating a platform for knowledge exchange and collaboration.
Officials from the Forest Department noted that the festival is expected to strengthen conservation efforts while providing sustainable livelihood opportunities for local communities. By integrating tourism with education on environmental protection, the administration seeks to balance economic development with the preservation of fragile ecosystems.
Participants have the opportunity to observe the islands’ unique habitats, interact with experts on bird identification and habitat conservation, and engage in sessions highlighting strategies to support long-term biodiversity sustainability. The event is designed to offer both learning and practical experiences for attendees, fostering a deeper understanding of ecological challenges in island ecosystems.
The festival also underscores the potential of eco-tourism in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. By encouraging low-impact, educational tourism activities, the administration aims to enhance public awareness while promoting nature-based economic opportunities. Local residents are actively involved, ensuring that the festival benefits both participants and the communities that live alongside these habitats.
Organizers emphasized that the Island Bird Festival is intended to become an annual event, highlighting the importance of preserving the islands’ avifauna and reinforcing environmental stewardship. The initiative is seen as a model for combining conservation education, community engagement, and sustainable tourism practices.
The festival showcases the rich diversity of the islands’ bird species, including both endemic and migratory populations, and emphasizes the need for proactive conservation measures. Through guided bird-watching, photography workshops, and expert discussions, participants gain insights into the ecological significance of these species and the actions needed to protect their habitats.
Overall, the Island Bird Festival represents a landmark initiative in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, reinforcing the connection between biodiversity preservation, eco-tourism, and community participation. The administration’s efforts aim to ensure that residents and visitors alike understand the ecological, educational, and economic value of the islands’ unique birdlife, promoting long-term conservation and sustainable development.
