Port Blair(Sri Vijaya Puram): From birding trails and beach sports to digital competitions and AI-driven tourism ideas, the Andaman and Nicobar Administration is gearing up for a technology-focused World Tourism Day 2026 on September 27, centred on the theme “Digital Agenda and Artificial Intelligence to Redesign Tourism.”
The Directorate of Information, Publicity & Tourism (IP&T), in collaboration with tourism stakeholders and allied departments, has lined up a series of activities across the Islands aimed at bringing tourists, islanders, youth and students into the celebration while promoting responsible tourism, digital innovation and technology-enabled visitor experiences.
A key digital initiative will be the promotion of the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting’s “Gems of India” initiative, offering emerging creators, including talented island youth, an opportunity to showcase their creativity on a national digital platform.
The celebrations have already moved beyond conventional tourism promotion, with the Tourism Department organising a Bird Tourism Workshop and Bird Watching Programme on September 21 and 22 in association with the Andaman Bird Tour Agency and students of JNRM. The initiative sought to highlight the Islands’ birding potential while linking tourism with conservation and responsible eco-tourism.
Digital creativity will also be at the centre of competitions announced for the occasion.
A Tourism Promotional Video/Reels Competition has invited short videos showcasing the Islands’ natural beauty, attractions and distinctive visitor experiences. A separate Tourist Convenience App Competition among DBRAIT students is intended to encourage technology-based solutions for improving tourist convenience and the overall visitor experience.
The celebrations will also carry a strong sporting and community dimension. Beach Volleyball and Tug of War competitions for men and women will be held at Corbyn’s Cove Beach on September 25 and 27 in coordination with the Sports & Youth Affairs Department and tourism stakeholders.
A Blood Donation Camp, along with a Painting Competition and Art Showcase, will be organised at Andaman Club by AATO in coordination with the Tourism Department and Health authorities.
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On September 27, visitors arriving at the airport, Swaraj Dweep, Shaheed Dweep and the National Memorial Cellular Jail will receive a traditional welcome arranged by the Tourism Department in association with ANTOA.
As a goodwill gesture to visitors, free entry to selected museums will also be offered on the day, including the Cellular Jail, Chatham Saw Mill, Samudrika Naval Marine Museum, Anthropological Museum and Fisheries Museum. Adding a cultural flavour to the celebrations, programmes organised in coordination with the Art & Culture Department will be presented at Corbyn’s Cove Beach on September 26 and 27 from 4 pm onwards.
The IP&T Directorate has invited tourists, islanders, tourism stakeholders, youth, students, sports enthusiasts and the general public to participate in the celebrations and join the Islands’ move towards a more innovative, responsible and technology-driven tourism ecosystem.
