Swaraj Dweep, Aug 20: To promote, foster sustainable and responsible tourism practices with a commitment towards preserving the environment and supporting local communities, Tourism Department organized a comprehensive awareness and sensitization program for tourism stakeholders, unemployed youth/candidates at Govind Nagar, Gram Panchayat in Swaraj Dweep yesterday. PRI Members from Swaraj Dweep also attended this programme.

During the sensitization program, the participants were educated by the officials of the Tourism and other line Departments about the importance of responsible tourism and its positive impact on both the environment and the local economy. The awareness programme addressed the growing concerns surrounding the environmental, cultural, and social implications of tourism besides encouraging all stakeholders to play a proactive role in ensuring the long-term viability of destinations.

Different topics on tourism related activities were dealt by resource persons from different Departments. The Station House Officer, PS Swaraj Dweep Shri Jainuddin dwelt on tourist laws & regulations, restricted area/visa/passport, Do’s & Don’ts for tourists etc. From the Forest Department, the Ranger, Shri Raju Rathore covered topics like safety on beaches, protection of corals, endangered species, geographical knowledge about the Islands, Do’s & Don’ts for tourists etc. Later the officials from Tourism Department covered topics such as eco-tourism and its role in conservation, reducing single-use plastic and waste management in tourist areas, growing concerns surrounding the environmental, cultural, and social implications of tourism, other general information about the A&N Islands i.e. details of hotels, bed & breakfast, restaurants, tourist sites, fairs & festivals, local cuisines etc. Participation certificates were also distributed to the participants who attended the training programme.