The Andaman and Nicobar Islands’ tourism sector is seeking to expand its outreach to mainland markets through participation in the 9th edition of the Travel East Fair in Kolkata, which opened on Nov. 28. The three-day event, being held at City Centre I, has brought together tourism stakeholders from across India, positioning it as a key platform for destination promotion and industry networking.
Organised by the Confederation of Indian Industry, the Travel East Fair serves as a meeting point for tour operators, corporate buyers, travel enthusiasts and policymakers. The presence of the Andaman and Nicobar Administration at the event is aimed at reinforcing the islands’ visibility in the competitive travel market ahead of the upcoming tourist season.
At the Andaman Tourism Pavilion, visitors are being introduced to the archipelago’s natural landscapes, adventure tourism options, cultural experiences and sustainability-led initiatives. The pavilion highlights the diverse appeal of the islands, ranging from beaches and marine life to eco-tourism and community-based experiences, aligning with changing traveller preferences for responsible and experiential travel.
Industry engagement forms a central part of the islands’ participation in the event. Representatives from major tourism stakeholder associations, including the Andaman Association of Tour Operators, the Andaman Nicobar Tour Operators Association and ITT Majestic, are actively involved at the pavilion. These stakeholders are using the forum to promote new travel packages, engage with buyers, and explore opportunities for collaboration with mainland operators.
Officials associated with the tourism department have indicated that such platforms play an important role in strengthening market linkages, particularly in eastern India, which remains a key source market for visitors to the islands. Direct interactions with tour operators and corporate travel planners are seen as a way to address information gaps, promote curated itineraries, and respond to evolving consumer expectations.
The pavilion also reflects the administration’s emphasis on sustainable tourism. Displays and interactions have been designed to communicate the islands’ commitment to preserving fragile ecosystems while encouraging responsible visitor behaviour. This focus is intended to balance destination promotion with long-term conservation goals, a priority given the ecological sensitivity of the archipelago.
Participation in the Travel East Fair is part of a broader outreach strategy being pursued by the Andaman and Nicobar Administration to revive and strengthen tourism flows. Officials have noted that consistent engagement at national and regional travel platforms is essential to maintain momentum, particularly in a sector that is sensitive to market perceptions and seasonal trends.
As the fair continues through Nov. 30, the department expects increased footfall at the pavilion and further interactions with potential partners. The administration has expressed optimism that exposure at the event will translate into greater interest from travellers and tour operators, contributing to improved tourist arrivals in the coming months and supporting the local tourism economy.
