Sri Vijaya Puram (Port Blair), April 3: The Andaman and Nicobar Islands Integrated Development Corporation (ANIIDCO) has launched two structured programmes aimed at strengthening professional capacity and supporting sustainable development across the islands, officials said.
The ANIIDCO Island Development Fellowship Programme (AIDFP) and a parallel Internship Programme have been introduced to engage young professionals, students, and domain experts in key sectors linked to the region’s development priorities. The initiatives come as the Corporation continues to implement projects in eco-tourism, infrastructure, marine and coastal planning, environmental sustainability, and urban development.
Under the Fellowship Programme, four professionals will be selected for a period of nine months, with the provision for extension up to twelve months. The Internship Programme, on the other hand, will provide short-term exposure to ten students and recent graduates from relevant academic backgrounds.

Officials stated that both programmes are designed as non-employment engagements with a focus on outcomes. Participants will be expected to contribute technical, analytical, and creative inputs aligned with the ecological and geographical context of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
The initiatives place emphasis on innovation, sustainability, and field-based research. Activities under the programmes will include documentation, knowledge creation, and applied research intended to support long-term planning and institutional strengthening.
According to the Corporation, the programmes are structured to generate high-quality outputs that can contribute to informed decision-making and policy development. By integrating academic knowledge with field realities, the initiative aims to create a pool of skilled professionals equipped to address the specific challenges of island ecosystems.

ANIIDCO officials said the effort is also intended to build a future-ready talent base capable of supporting development initiatives while maintaining environmental balance. The programmes align with broader objectives of ensuring that growth in the islands remains context-sensitive and sustainable.
Detailed notifications, including eligibility criteria, application formats, and submission procedures, have been made available through official government and ANIIDCO websites. Applicants can also access the application process through a designated online form.
The launch of these programmes reflects a focused approach towards capacity building and structured engagement of professionals in sectors critical to the islands’ development trajectory.

