Sri Vijaya Puram, June 15: Efforts to promote eco-tourism and environmental awareness received a significant boost on Friday as the Directorate of Information, Publicity and Tourism (IP&T), in collaboration with the Department of Environment and Forests and Dakshin Foundation’s Andaman Nicobar Environment Team (ANET), organised two nature-based events under the Tourism Fairs, Festivals and Events Calendar 2026-27.
The Island Bird Walk at Kalatang and the Island Mangrove Walk at Shoal Bay-19 attracted residents, nature enthusiasts and community members, highlighting growing public interest in biodiversity conservation and sustainable tourism practices across the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
According to officials, 25 participants joined the bird walk at Kalatang while around 50 participants took part in the mangrove walk at Shoal Bay-19. The programmes were designed to provide hands-on learning experiences and create greater awareness about the ecological importance of the islands’ unique habitats.
During the bird walk, participants were introduced to the diversity of avian life found in the islands and were sensitized about the importance of protecting bird species and their habitats. The programme also highlighted the role birds play in maintaining ecological balance through pollination, seed dispersal and pest control.
The mangrove walk at Shoal Bay-19 focused on the ecological significance of mangrove forests, which serve as natural barriers against coastal erosion, provide breeding grounds for marine life and act as important carbon sinks. Participants were briefed on the need to conserve these fragile ecosystems amid increasing environmental challenges and climate-related risks.
Officials said the programmes sought to combine education and recreation by encouraging people to directly experience the islands’ natural wealth while understanding the importance of conservation. Such initiatives are increasingly being viewed as key components of sustainable tourism, where visitors and residents alike engage with nature in responsible and environmentally conscious ways.
The events also witnessed strong support from local Panchayati Raj Institutions. The Pradhans of Gram Panchayat Mannarghat and Gram Panchayat Shoal Bay played a significant role in mobilising participants and encouraging community involvement.
Organisers noted that the enthusiastic response reflected growing awareness among island residents regarding environmental issues and the need to protect natural resources for future generations.
The collaboration between the Tourism Department, Forest Department, Dakshin Foundation and local panchayats ensured the smooth conduct of both programmes. Volunteers and resource persons engaged participants through interactive discussions and field-based observations, helping them better understand the interconnectedness of biodiversity, ecosystems and sustainable development.
The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are globally recognised for their rich biological diversity and high levels of endemism. Conservationists have long stressed that community participation is essential for safeguarding these ecosystems, particularly as tourism activities continue to expand.
Officials said the bird and mangrove walks form part of a broader effort to promote responsible tourism experiences that not only showcase the islands’ natural beauty but also encourage environmental stewardship among residents and visitors.
With increasing interest in nature-based tourism worldwide, such programmes are expected to play a larger role in strengthening awareness about biodiversity conservation while creating meaningful opportunities for public engagement.
The successful conduct of both events has further reinforced the importance of collaborative initiatives involving government departments, environmental organisations and local communities in advancing conservation goals across the islands. Organisers indicated that similar activities will continue to be included in the tourism calendar to encourage greater appreciation of the region’s ecological heritage.
