Sri Vijaya Puram, Mar. 9: The Directorate of Tourism, A&N Administration, in association with Indian Institute of Tourism and Travel Management (IITTM), Bhubaneswar is organising 12-day Eco-Tour Guide Training Programme for local youths. The training programme which commenced today in the Conference Hall of Andaman Teal House will continue up to March 20.
The programme aims to build the capacity of local unemployed youth and tourism stakeholders by equipping them with professional guiding skills, knowledge of eco-tourism practices, visitor management, interpretation of natural heritage, and responsible tourism principles. The initiative is part of the Department’s ongoing efforts to strengthen community participation and promote sustainable tourism in the Islands.
During the inaugural session, Smti Anita Yadav, Joint Director (Tourism) highlighted the importance of trained guides in shaping visitors’ experiences and emphasized the need to promote eco-tourism with a strong focus on sustainability and environmental conservation. She stated that the Andaman & Nicobar Islands possess rich biodiversity, pristine ecosystems, and unique natural attractions, and therefore Guides must play a proactive role in creating awareness among tourists about responsible behaviour, conservation of fragile ecosystems, and protection of marine and coastal environments.
The training programme will include classroom sessions, interactive discussions, and practical exposure on topics such as eco-tourism concepts, biodiversity interpretation, communication skills, visitor handling, safety practices, and sustainable tourism management.
Participants will be guided by experts and faculty from IITTM, Bhubaneswar, along with resource persons from various Departments and tourism sectors.
The programme will help create a pool of trained eco-tour guides from the local community, thereby enhancing the quality of tourism services while ensuring that tourism development in the Islands remains environmentally responsible and sustainable.
