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TOURISM IN SOUTH ANDAMAN: OPPORTUNITIES, IMPACTS AND FUTURE

POTENTIAL IN INDIA

Article in International Education and Research Journal · September 2024

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 Research Paper Sociology E-ISSN No : 2454-9916 | Volume : 10 | Issue : 9 | September 2024

TOURISM IN SOUTH ANDAMAN: OPPORTUNITIES, IMPACTS

AND FUTURE POTENTIAL IN INDIA

Tanesh Indwar1, Dr. P. K Muthukumar2

1
Research Scholar, Department of Sociology, Annamalai University, TN
2
Associate Professor, Department of Sociology & Social Work, Annamalai University, TN

ABSTRACT
Travel and tourism industry is rapidly growing worldwide and in India, presenting a valuable opportunity to showcase the rich
history, culture, and diversity of Andaman and Nicobar Islands. This research paper aims to highlight the renowned tourist
attractions in the Andaman district, analyze the positive and negative impacts of tourism, and provide recommendations for the
sustainable development of tourism in the region. The study focuses on the South Andaman district, often referred to as “Mini
India,” as the chosen area of research. Through secondary data sources, it is observed that the natural beauty, geographic features,
and cultural diversity of the South Andaman district offer significant benefits and opportunities for the local population. The
findings suggest that tourism in the Andaman Islands has a promising future, with the potential to evolve into a national tourist
destination. By leveraging its natural resources, cultural heritage, and artistic diversity, the region can attract more visitors and
boost economic growth. It is crucial to implement sustainable practices and community involvement to ensure the long-term
success and positive impacts of tourism in the Andaman Islands.

KEYWORDS: Tourism, Travels, Andaman, Nicobar, Islands, Mini India

INTRODUCTION India tourism map, offering a blend of scenic beauty, cultural

The travel and tourism sector in India has significantly richness, and historical significance that continue to captivate
contributed to the country’s economic growth and employment visitors from around the world.[3], [4]
opportunities. With slogans like “Incredible India” and
“Atithidevo Bhava,” India has positioned itself as one of the Sl. No. Month/Year Domestic Foreign Total
most popular tourist destinations in Asia, attracting millions of 1 January 2023 37943 1172 39115
international visitors each year. In 2019 alone, India welcomed
2 February 2023 28827 1076 29903
10.93 million international tourists, contributing 4.7 percent to
the country’s GDP. [1], [2]The Andaman and Nicobar Islands, 3 March 2023 28992 978 29970
located in the Bay of Bengal to the east of the Indian mainland, 4 April 2023 26674 554 27228
boast a diverse landscape of dense rain-fed forests, exotic 5 May 2023 23601 862 24463
flora and fauna, and picturesque islets. Comprising around 6 June 2023 18826 286 19112
836 islands, with approximately 550 in the Andaman Group
7 July 2023 10760 311 11071
and 28 inhabited, the islands also include the Nicobar group
with 22 main islands, 10 of which are inhabited. Historically 8 August 2023 14499 430 14929
significant landmarks like Cellular Jail, Netaji Subhas Chandra 9 September 2023 22240 382 22622
Bose Island, Viper Island, and Mount Harriet add to the cultural 10 October 2023 33718 699 34417
richness of the region. Recognized as an endemic bird area, the 11 November 2023 34074 1057 35131
Andaman and Nicobar Islands are home to a vast array of bird
12 December 2023 43465 1218 44683
species, with 270 reported, including 106 endemic species. The
islands also feature 96 wildlife sanctuaries, nine national parks, Total 323619 9025 332644
and one biosphere reserve, showcasing the region’s biodiversity. Source: Andaman & Nicobar Tourism (andamans.gov.in)[5]
The islands experience both the south-west and north-east Table 1: Foreign and Domestics Tourist Visited in
monsoons, further enhancing their natural beauty. The rich Andaman Islands
cultural heritage and historical diversity of the Andaman
Islands, along with its stunning beaches and clear blue waters, LITERATURE REVIEW
attract tourists seeking unique experiences. Tourism plays a The literature review provides insights from various researchers
vital role in promoting socio-economic development by driving and academicians that address the importance of travel and
economic growth, creating employment opportunities, and tourism, particularly in the context of Indian culture and
supporting sustainable development, particularly in rural and tradition. The sources of literature review for this study include
remote areas. The Andaman Islands hold a special place on the published research papers, articles in national and international

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International Education & Research Journal [IERJ] 90

 Research Paper E-ISSN No : 2454-9916 | Volume : 10 | Issue : 9 | September 2024

journals, books, government reports, and research agency the study area.
reports. According to Mahalakshmi Venkateah and Joseph 3. Provide suggestions for the better development of tourism
Michej Raj [6], tourism has deep roots in Indian culture and in the South Andaman district of Andaman Islands.
tradition, playing a significant role in the economic development
of the country. Their study emphasizes how the tourism sector METHODOLOGY
contributes to economic growth by providing employment The methodology employed for the current research work is
opportunities and fostering development, particularly in low- analytical, descriptive, and empirical in nature. This study
income countries. Naveen Kumar and Binoy[7]also highlight relies entirely on secondary sources of data gathered from
the integral role of tourism in Indian culture and tradition, citing newspapers, research journals, books, and various websites.
its contributions to generating foreign exchange, infrastructure The research aims to analyze, describe, and present empirical
development, increased revenue, and attracting foreign direct evidence based on existing information and literature related to
investment (FDI). Their study underscores tourism as a key the subject matter.
factor in the overall development of the nation. Rajender,
Durafshan, and Azatullah emphasize that the tourism and travel Study Area
industry is the largest and most diverse sector in India, playing The study area of the South Andamans district is one of the
a crucial role in increasing employment opportunities, boosting three districts in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands, situated in
foreign exchange earnings, and stimulating growth in domestic the Bay of Bengal region between longitude E 92° to E 94° and
industries. They consider the tourism sector as dynamic with latitude N 6° to N 14°. The total area of the South Andamans
a promising future for further development and expansion.[8] district covers 2980 square kilometers. This district is home to
four primitive tribes - Onges, Jarawas, Great Andamanese, and
Overall, the literature review underscores the significant impact Sentinalese - who are recognized as belonging to the Negrito
of tourism on economic development, employment generation, stock. Additionally, the Nicobarese tribe has been settled at
infrastructure growth, and overall national progress. It highlights Harminder Bay in this district.[6] The South Andamans district
the vital role that the tourism sector plays in contributing to the comprises three tehsils: Port Blair, Ferrargunj, and Little
prosperity and advancement of India as a whole. Andaman. With its diverse population, geographical location,
and unique tribes, the South Andamans district offers a rich
Statement of the Problem: cultural tapestry and fascinating natural surroundings for study
The statement of the problem in the context of the Andaman and exploration.[2], [9]
and Nicobar Islands highlights the challenges faced by tourists
in the region despite its natural beauty and rich cultural heritage.
While the UTs are known for their mesmerizing scenery,
pristine beaches, diverse wildlife, and lush forests, there are
significant infrastructure-related issues that hinder the tourism
experience in the South Andaman district. Tourists visiting the
region encounter problems such as inadequate roads, limited
air and water transportation facilities, insufficient government
accommodations, telecommunications and mobile network
issues, safety concerns, and challenges related to medical
services and access to essential medicines. These infrastructure
shortcomings impact the overall tourism experience and pose
obstacles for travelers exploring the hidden natural beauty spots
in South Andaman. Source: www.semanticscholar.org Study Area[10]

Recognizing the importance of addressing these challenges for RESULT AND ANALYSIS
enhancing the tourism potential of the region, the researcher The South Andaman district of the Andaman Islands offers a
aims to investigate and shed light on these issues. The anticipated plethora of tourism opportunities catering to diverse interests
findings from this study are expected to be beneficial for a wide such as adventure, eco-tourism, heritage, historical visits,
range of stakeholders, including administrators, policymakers, spiritual exploration, art and culture appreciation, rural
economists, sociologists, researchers, academicians, journalists, experiences, and tribal encounters. The district is home to
and NGO workers. Additionally, the outcomes of this research several prominent tourist destinations that showcase the
can provide valuable insights for the Ministry of Tourism region’s rich history and natural beauty.
and the Central Government of India in shaping policies and
strategies to improve infrastructure, safety, and overall tourism 1. National Memorial Cellular Jail: Once a formidable
development in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. colonial prison during British rule, the Cellular Jail now
serves as a National Memorial. It symbolizes the struggles
Objectives: of Indian freedom fighters and offers insights into India’s
1. Highlight the famous tourist places in the South Andaman fight for independence.
district of Andaman Islands.
2. Examine the positive and negative impacts of tourism in 2. Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Island (NSCB): This

91 International Education & Research Journal [IERJ]

 Research Paper E-ISSN No : 2454-9916 | Volume : 10 | Issue : 9 | September 2024

small island served as the British capital until the Japanese historical insights, cultural discoveries, and environmental
occupation during World War II. It holds significant adventures in the Andaman Islands.
historical remnants and is accessible via private ferries.
Major Challenges faced by Tourist in South Andaman
3. Viper Island: Known for its historical significance, Viper district of ANIs:
Island housed a colonial-era jail where political prisoners Some of the major challenges faced by tourists in the South
were held. The island’s tranquil surroundings offer a Andaman district of Andaman and Nicobar Islands are:
glimpse into its dark past.
1. Inhospitable Climate and Weather Conditions: The
4. Flag Point: A historical spot where Netaji Subhas Chandra region experiences challenging weather conditions during
Bose hoisted the Indian flag for the first time on Indian soil. the rainy and summer seasons, impacting outdoor activities
The flag point stands as a proud symbol of India’s freedom and travel plans for tourists.
struggle.
2. Limited Government Accommodation: There is a lack
5. Chatham Saw Mill: As one of Asia’s oldest sawmills, of available government accommodation facilities, which
Chatham Saw Mill on a tiny island near Sri Vijaya Puram may limit options for tourists seeking affordable and
(Port Blair) showcases the diverse timber wealth of the reliable lodging.
region, offering insights into forest activities.
3. Limited Food Options: Non-availability of healthy and
6. Anthropological Museum: Featuring the diverse tribes of diverse food choices at destination places can be a challenge
the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, the museum provides an for tourists, especially those with dietary restrictions.
ethnographic view of the region’s indigenous communities.
4. Shortage of Tourist Guides: Inadequate availability of
7. Swaraj Dweep and Shaheed Dweep: These picturesque trained tourist guides at various tourist sites can hinder
islands offer pristine beaches, lush green forests, and tourists’ overall experience and understanding of the local
vibrant coral reefs for a tranquil getaway amidst nature’s attractions.
beauty.
5. Lack of Shopping Amenities: The absence of large
8. Mundapahar Beach and Mundapahar Trek Route: shopping malls or retail facilities near tourist attractions
Ideal for eco-friendly picnics and trekking adventures, can limit shopping opportunities for visitors looking to
Mundapahar Beach and Trek Route offer panoramic views purchase souvenirs or local goods.
of the islands’ natural splendor.
6. Parking Facilities: Insufficient parking spaces, particularly
9. Scuba Diving: The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are a during peak tourist seasons, can create challenges for
diving paradise, where visitors can explore stunning reefs, visitors traveling by private vehicles or rental cars.
underwater landscapes, and diverse marine life through
scuba diving experiences. 7. Limited Healthcare Services: The lack of easily accessible
and well-equipped hospitals or medical facilities in case of
10. Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park: A haven for emergencies or health-related issues can be a concern for
marine enthusiasts, this park offers rare coral sightings, tourists seeking medical support.
glass-bottom boat rides, and snorkeling opportunities to
admire underwater marine life. 8. Connectivity Issues: Inadequate sea and air connectivity
to and from the region can impact tourists’ travel plans and
11. Mount Manipur: Formerly known as Mount Harriet, access to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, potentially
this vantage point provides breathtaking views of nearby leading to logistical challenges and disruptions.
islands and the sea, making it an ideal spot for scenic
overviews. Addressing these challenges through improved infrastructure,
increased services, enhanced safety measures, and better
12. Barren Island: Home to India’s only active volcano, connectivity can help enhance the overall tourism experience
Barren Island offers a unique opportunity to witness in the South Andaman district, making it more welcoming and
volcanic landscapes and marine biodiversity under special accessible for visitors.
permissions.
Positive Impacts:
13. Cinque Island: Known for its rare corals, scenic beaches, The positive impacts of tourism in the South Andaman district
and tropical rainforests, Cinque Island is a sanctuary for of Andaman and Nicobar Islands are significant and beneficial
nature lovers and underwater exploration enthusiasts. for the local communities and the region as a whole:

These diverse attractions and experiences in the South Andaman 1. Generating Employment and Livelihood Opportunities:
district make it a captivating destination for travelers seeking Tourism creates job opportunities for local residents,

International Education & Research Journal [IERJ] 92

 Research Paper E-ISSN No : 2454-9916 | Volume : 10 | Issue : 9 | September 2024

especially in areas near tourist attractions, thereby of tourists can have adverse effects on the environment and
improving livelihoods and boosting the economy. local ecosystems, leading to pollution, habitat destruction,
and depletion of natural resources.
2. Source of Income for Locals: Tourism serves as a
source of income for individuals and businesses in the 4. Seasonal Character of Jobs: Many jobs created by the
community, stimulating economic growth and supporting tourism industry in the South Andaman district may be
local businesses. seasonal in nature, leading to employment instability for
local residents.
3. Preservation and Conservation: Tourism can contribute
to the preservation of national heritage sites and the 5. Increase in Prices: The rise in tourism-related activities
conservation of the natural environment, promoting and demand can lead to price increases, making goods and
sustainability and protecting cultural resources. services less affordable for local residents.

4. Development of Infrastructure: The growth of tourism 6. Non-Islanders Taking Over Tourism-Generating Jobs:
often leads to the development of basic infrastructure such There is a risk of non-locals taking over tourism-related
as roads, hotels, airports, and restaurants, which benefits jobs, which can reduce opportunities for local residents
both tourists and local residents. and communities to benefit from the industry.

5. Promoting Peace and Stability: Tourism can foster Addressing these negative impacts requires careful planning,
peace and stability in the region by encouraging cultural sustainable development practices, community involvement,
exchange, understanding, and cooperation among visitors and effective policies to mitigate the adverse effects of tourism
and locals from diverse backgrounds. on the social, cultural, environmental, and economic aspects of
the South Andaman district.
6. Regional Development and Planning: The influx of
tourists can drive regional development and planning Suggestions:
initiatives, leading to improved amenities, public services, The following are some suggestions and policy implications for
and overall quality of life for residents. the development of tourism in the South Andaman district of
Andaman and Nicobar Islands:
7. Focus on Eco-Tourism: With an emphasis on eco-
tourism practices, tourism in the South Andaman district 1. Focus on Adventure-Friendly Infrastructure: The
can promote sustainable travel experiences that minimize Ministry of Tourism, Central Government, and local
environmental impact and prioritize conservation efforts. administration should prioritize the development of
adventure-friendly infrastructure such as better road
8. Promoting Local Handicrafts: Tourism provides a services, improved transportation options, and facilities to
platform for promoting and selling local handicraft promote adventure tourism in the islands.
products, supporting traditional artisans and preserving
cultural heritage through art and craftsmanship. 2. Emphasize Rural Tourism: There should be a greater
emphasis on rural tourism initiatives that showcase the
Overall, the positive impacts of tourism in the South Andaman rural way of life, traditional arts, heritage, and cultural
district contribute to economic prosperity, cultural preservation, diversity of the region to attract more tourists.
environmental conservation, and sustainable development,
enriching the region and benefiting both visitors and local 3. Ensure Safety and Security: Adequate numbers of
communities. tourist guides, interpreters, police personnel, and security
measures should be in place at every tourist destination
Negative Impacts: in the study area to ensure the safety and well-being of
The negative impacts of tourism in the South Andaman district visitors.
of Andaman and Nicobar Islands include:
4. Maintain Cleanliness and Sanitary Facilities: It is
1. Undesirable Social and Cultural Change: Tourism can essential to maintain good condition and cleanliness of
lead to undesirable social and cultural changes in local sanitary facilities at all tourist places to enhance the overall
communities, affecting traditional practices, values, and visitor experience and promote hygiene standards.
ways of life.
5. Improve Amenities and Accommodation: The provision
2. Creating a Sense of Antipathy: Increased tourism may of good amenities, availability of quality accommodations,
create feelings of resentment or antipathy among locals clean restroom facilities, and the establishment of shopping
towards tourists due to overcrowding, cultural clashes, or complexes on every island in the South Andaman district
other issues. are essential for enhancing the comfort and convenience
of tourists.
3. Adverse Effects on Environment and Ecology: The influx

93 International Education & Research Journal [IERJ]

 Research Paper E-ISSN No : 2454-9916 | Volume : 10 | Issue : 9 | September 2024

6. Enhance Air and Water Connectivity: Local SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT: AN OVERVIEW,” Journal
administration should focus on improving air and water of Pharmaceutical Negative Results ¦, vol. 14, doi: 10.47750/
connectivity for inter-island travel to facilitate seamless pnr.2023.14.02.205.
transport options for tourists exploring different islands in 5. vaneku rFkk fudksckj i;ZVu Andaman & Nicobar Tourism The
the region. Official Website for Andaman & Nicobar Tourism (index.php)
VOTE NOW.” [Online]. Available: https://www.facebook.com/
TourismDeptANI
7. Prioritize Employment for Islanders: It is recommended
6. M. Mahalakshmi Venkatesh, P. Stanley, and J. M. Raj, “IMPACT
to prioritize job opportunities for local residents of the OF TOURISM IN INDIA,” International Journal of Scientific
islands, ensuring that they benefit from the tourism industry Engineering and Applied Science (IJSEAS), no. 2, 2016,
first and contribute to the sustainable development of their [Online]. Available: www.ijseas.com
communities. 7. N. Kumar, “AN ANALYTICAL STUDY ON CONTRIBUTIONS
OF TOURISM INDUSTRY IN INDIA,” 2017. [Online].
Implementing these suggestions and policies can help boost Available: http://www.journal
tourism, promote sustainable development, and enhance the 8. T. Indwar and P. K. Muthukumar, “ROLE OF ECOTOURISM IN
overall tourist experience in the South Andaman district of SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT: AN OVERVIEW,” Journal
of Pharmaceutical Negative Results ¦, vol. 14, doi: 10.47750/
Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
pnr.2023.14.02.205.
9. vaneku rFkk fudksckj i;ZVu Andaman & Nicobar Tourism The
CONCLUSION:
Official Website for Andaman & Nicobar Tourism (index.php)
Tourism has played a vital role in showcasing the rich history, art, VOTE NOW.” [Online]. Available: https://www.facebook.com/
and culture of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, specifically in TourismDeptANI
the South Andaman district. The tourism sector holds immense 10. R. R. Kumar, S. Venu, K. K. Bineesh, and V. S. Basheer, “New
potential for driving economic growth and development in the biogeographic data and dna barcodes for the Indian swellshark,
region. Not only does tourism serve as a catalyst for economic Cephaloscyllium silasi (Talwar, 1974) (Elasmobranchii:
advancement, but it also serves as a significant source of Carcharhiniformes: Scyliorhinidae), from Andaman waters,”
employment generation, boosting local livelihoods. Travel Acta Ichthyol Piscat, vol. 46, no. 2, pp. 131–135, 2016, doi:
and tourism have placed the South Andaman district on the 10.3750/AIP2016.46.2.10.
global tourism map, garnering recognition, appreciation, and
instigating positive cultural changes. The natural beauty, diverse
geography, and rich cultural heritage of the region present
abundant opportunities for local residents. Additionally, tourism
plays a key role in promoting national integration, fostering
small and local industries, and contributing significantly to the
revenue of the islands.

It is evident that the tourism sector is a powerful driver of

economic progress in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands,
catalyzing growth and positively impacting various aspects
of the local economy and society. With tourism being one of
the fastest-growing sectors in the region, it has transformed
the landscape and contributed to the overall development and
prosperity of the islands. The continued focus on sustainable
tourism practices and strategic development initiatives can
further enhance the tourism potential of the Andaman and
Nicobar Islands, ensuring long-term benefits for the region and
its inhabitants.

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International Education & Research Journal [IERJ] 94

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