Port Blair, 22 September 2026:
A two-day Bird Tourism Workshop was conducted for students of the BBA Tourism – Eco-Tourism Club, JNRM, Port Blair, on 21–22 September 2026, as part of the activities for World Tourism Day 2026.
The workshop introduced students to the rich and unique avifaunal diversity of the Andaman & Nicobar Islands and highlighted bird tourism as a responsible, sustainable and nature-based tourism opportunity. The programme combined classroom sessions with practical field birding, covering bird identification, bird-watching techniques, field ethics, habitat understanding, nature interpretation and livelihood opportunities.
The sessions were led by Mr. Arun Singh, local bird expert and founder of Andaman Bird Tour, who introduced students to the islands' endemic birds and provided practical guidance on bird identification, binocular use, ethical birding and responsible wildlife observation.
Mr. Alex Rajan, Owner, Pristine Beach Resort and President, North & Middle Andaman Chamber of Commerce, shared insights into the potential for community-oriented eco-tourism and nature-based tourism in North and Middle Andaman.
The second day featured a practical birding expedition to Chidiatapu and Chidiatapu Reserve Forest, where students gained hands-on experience in observing and identifying endemic, forest and coastal bird species while learning the importance of protecting natural habitats.
The programme was supported by the Department of Tourism, Andaman & Nicobar Administration, under the leadership of Mr. Vinayak Chamadia, Secretary (Tourism).
Special thanks were extended to Mrs. Pearl Devdas, Principal, JNRM, for facilitating the programme, and Mr. Salam for his coordination and support. Valuable contributions were also made by Mrs. Asha Rajan, former Vice President, Andaman Avians Club, and Mr. Shiraz Noble, eco-tourism and water-sports expert.
The workshop brought together education, bird watching, eco-tourism and conservation, encouraging young tourism professionals to explore opportunities in bird guiding, nature interpretation and responsible tourism.
The workshop was supported by Department of Tourism, Andaman & Nicobar Administration • Andaman Bird Tour • Pristine Beach Resort
