The Andaman & Nicobar Administration’s Tourism Department has scheduled a skill development programme aimed at training local youth as astro-guides, enhancing expertise in night sky observation and sustainable astro-tourism practices. The sessions are planned at Mayabunder from March 5 to 7, 2026, and at Little Andaman from March 10 to 12, 2026.
The initiative is designed to equip participants with practical knowledge of astronomy fundamentals, telescope operation, interpretation techniques, and responsible conduct for astro-tourism. It forms part of broader efforts to diversify tourism offerings across the Islands and promote experience-based, sustainable travel opportunities.
Targeted at local youth, tourism stakeholders, and nature enthusiasts, the programme seeks to expand skillsets while opening new avenues for livelihood within the growing astro-tourism sector. Participants will gain hands-on exposure to observational techniques, essential for guiding tourists through celestial experiences and night sky interpretation.
Eligible candidates must be under 40 years of age and have completed at least higher secondary education from any recognized Board or University. Interested individuals can download the application form from the official website, tourism.andamannicobar.gov.in, and submit completed forms to the Planning Section of the Directorate of Tourism by February 25, 2026, before 3 pm.
The training reflects the Administration’s strategic push to position the Andaman & Nicobar Islands as a unique destination for niche tourism experiences. By blending astronomy education with eco-conscious travel practices, the department aims to encourage community participation while maintaining the ecological integrity of the region.
Organisers highlighted that the programme will not only enhance employable skills among youth but also help meet growing tourist demand for immersive experiences. Participants are expected to emerge capable of conducting guided night-sky tours, educating visitors on constellations, planetary movements, and other celestial phenomena, while adhering to sustainable and responsible tourism standards.
The department emphasized that astro-tourism offers promising potential as a supplementary source of income for local communities, fostering awareness about environmental conservation and responsible visitor engagement. This skill development effort underscores the government’s commitment to leveraging natural and scientific assets to diversify the tourism portfolio of the Islands.
By combining technical training with awareness of local environmental and cultural sensitivities, the programme positions Andaman & Nicobar as a forward-looking destination that merges educational tourism with sustainable development. The initiative also serves as a model for integrating scientific literacy into livelihood-focused training, reflecting an innovative approach to regional tourism planning.
The Directorate of Tourism encouraged interested candidates to act promptly and complete application procedures ahead of the deadline, emphasizing the opportunity as a gateway to both skill enhancement and career development in the emerging field of astro-tourism.
