Swaraj Dweep, May 26: The Andaman Association of Tour Operators (AATO) conducted an interaction session with PRI Members, Government Officials and Tourism Stakeholders at Symphony Palms Beach Resort, Swaraj Dweep as part of its FAM Tour organised to promote tourism in the Andaman Islands during the monsoon season.
Around 60 travel agents along with media representatives and digital creators participated in the programme. The interaction session focused on tourism development, stakeholder coordination, sustainable tourism practices and issues related to tourism activities at Swaraj Dweep.
The programme was attended by Shri Ajit Kumar Roy, Pradhan, Govind Nagar Panchayat, Shri Alok Mridha, Pradhan, Shyam Nagar Panchayat, Shri Apurba Chandra Roy, Zilla Parishad Member, Inspector Rizwan, SHO Swaraj Dweep, Shri Pran Gopal Das, Boat and Watersports Operator and Shri Sameer Kullu, Watersports Operator along with several local tourism stakeholders and representatives from the tourism industry.
During the session, various important tourism-related issues were discussed including induction of new and better quality boats for Elephant Beach, installation of CCTV cameras at tourist locations, protection of the interests of local tourism operators and the need to stop fraudulent practices in the name of complimentary snorkelling.
Stakeholders also discussed opening up of new islands for tourism activities, expediting approvals for new tourism and adventure activities, improving coordination among stakeholders and expanding the membership base of AATO at Swaraj Dweep.
AATO President Shri M. Vinod highlighted the importance of such interaction sessions for strengthening coordination between tourism stakeholders and local authorities while promoting sustainable tourism development in the islands.
General Secretary Saikat Biswas thanked all PRI Members, Government Officials, tourism stakeholders and participants for their support and active participation in the programme.
The association reaffirmed its commitment towards working collectively with all stakeholders for the growth and promotion of tourism in Swaraj Dweep.