The second phase of the Astro-tourism Guide Training Workshop began at Shaheed Dweep on Monday, marking a new milestone in Andaman and Nicobar Islands’ growing dark sky and sustainable tourism movement. Organized by the Directorate of Information, Publicity and Tourism in collaboration with the Open Space Foundation and C-STERC, the event saw participation from 53 trainees engaging in practical astronomy-based learning.
Following the success of the first phase conducted earlier in Sri Vijaya Puram, this session aims to enhance local capacity for astro-tourism, an emerging niche that blends science education with eco-friendly travel. The training focuses on equipping participants with hands-on skills in astronomy, telescope handling, and visitor engagement, positioning Shaheed Dweep as a model for community-driven, sustainable tourism.
The first day of the workshop included detailed sessions on the Fundamentals of Astronomy, Astro-tourism Concepts, and Telescope Operation & Observation. Participants also took part in Daytime Astronomy activities, which included solar observation techniques and understanding safe methods for viewing the sun. These exercises help local guides interpret celestial events for tourists in a scientifically accurate and engaging manner.
Experts facilitating the workshop include astronomy educators Anupama Pradeepan and Bharat Kumar from C-STERC and the Open Space Foundation, supported by Udhay Bhasker, Board Member of the Foundation. The team conducted interactive demonstrations using advanced optical equipment and digital applications such as Stellarium to simulate the night sky and identify celestial bodies.
Shaheed Dweep, known for its pristine natural setting and minimal light pollution, has been a pioneering site for astro-tourism in the Islands. Over 15 telescopes are already operational across resorts and community tourism ventures in the area, making it an ideal venue for training new astro-guides. The current initiative aims to build a structured ecosystem where astronomy enthusiasts, tour operators, and conservation groups can collaborate to promote responsible stargazing experiences.
The workshop’s organizers have emphasized that the development of astro-tourism is not just a leisure pursuit but an environmental and educational mission. By promoting dark sky preservation, it aligns with global efforts to reduce light pollution and foster awareness about the night sky as a shared heritage. For the Islands, such initiatives open up new livelihood opportunities while preserving ecological integrity.
The training also introduces participants to key aspects of visitor interpretation, teaching them how to communicate scientific concepts in accessible ways and integrate astronomy into eco-tours, cultural experiences, and school programs. Participants are learning to design guided night sky sessions, integrate storytelling with celestial observations, and develop itineraries that align with sustainable tourism guidelines.
With the support of the Andaman and Nicobar Administration, the workshop represents a collaborative approach to tourism development, one that values conservation as much as economic growth. The broader objective is to position the Islands as India’s first certified Dark Sky and Sustainable Astro-tourism Destination.
Officials from the Directorate noted that the initiative will serve as a model for other islands seeking to balance tourism with environmental sensitivity. Through training programs like these, local youth and tourism stakeholders are being empowered to contribute meaningfully to conservation-based livelihoods.
The astro-tourism movement in the Islands is steadily gaining momentum as a unique blend of science, sustainability, and community participation. As the Shaheed Dweep training continues over multiple sessions, participants are expected to develop the confidence and technical skills to conduct independent astronomy-based tours, paving the way for the Islands to emerge as a national leader in dark sky tourism.
