Andaman and Nicobar embrace 4 new islands to boost tourism, employment

New Delhi, February 6: Andaman and Nicobar Island known for its scenic beauty and tourist attraction will soon be having 4 new islands. In view of a holistic development, the Centre has taken an initiative to develop 4 islands and the momentum has gained steam with the consultant preparing to get through it.

 

The preparatory process for a Concept Development Plan and detailed Master Plan for this development has been started by the NITI Aayog Department. Therefore the consultants appointed for this purpose have visited the area. The appointed chamber has suggested the government to include Andamans as one of the 10 iconic sites of the country as announced in the Union Budget.

NITI Aayog has identified Ross & Smith Island, Long Island, Avis Island and Little Andaman as part of NITI Aayog master plan as drivers of tourism and sustainable economic development. A few Lakhadweep islands are also part of the development programme.

Girish Arora, Andaman Chamber of Commerce & Industry said, "Once it is implemented under the Holistic Development Scheme, the islands will have planned development. More infrastructures will be created, more job avenues opened that will boost rural economy."

Tourism is a main revenue stream for the islanders and the chamber expects Andamans will get a major boost if it is included as one of the 10 circuits. Along with this officials have figured out the framework to encourage seaplanes and raise the capacity of airports five times which will eventually help in the growth of tourism.