The Ministry of Home Affairs has announced an exciting development for international travelers: Port Blair Seaport in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands is now an authorized Integrated Check Post (ICP) for foreign nationals holding an e-visa. This decision is poised to significantly enhance tourism in the region, renowned for its stunning beaches and adventure tourism opportunities.
A New Gateway for Tourists Andman:
Andaman and Nicobar Islands, with their pristine beaches and tranquil lagoons, are a paradise for adventure seekers and nature lovers. The recent approval of Port Blair Seaport as an e-visa entry point is expected to draw more foreign tourists to these idyllic islands. Vishwendra, the Tourism Secretary of Andaman and Nicobar Islands, highlighted that the best time for yacht chartering in the archipelago is from October to May, owing to the calm seas and pleasant tropical climate during these months.
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Enhanced Access for E-Visa Holders:
With the inclusion of Port Blair, foreign nationals holding an e-visa can now enter India through six major seaports: Mumbai, Cochin in Kerala, Mormugao in Goa, Chennai in Tamil Nadu, New Mangalore in Karnataka, and Port Blair in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. This move simplifies access for international visitors and promotes the Andamans as a prime destination for yacht and adventure tourism.
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Boosting Yacht Tourism
Prashant Kumar, former Chief Port Administrator of the Port Management Board and Special Secretary (Home) for Andaman and Nicobar Islands, noted that all parameters and future prospects were thoroughly examined before the Ministry of Home Affairs approved e-visa entry at Port Blair. Director General of Police, Devesh Chandra Srivastava, welcomed the decision, emphasizing its potential to put the Andamans on the global tourism map and boost yacht tourism in the region.
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Andaman Industry Response:
Tour operators and tourism associations have expressed their enthusiasm for the new e-visa entry point. R. Ratnam, President of the Federation of Responsible Tour Operators (FORTO), and M. Vinod, President of the Andaman Association of Tour Operators (AATO), highlighted the significant opportunities this move brings for yacht tourism. They stressed the importance of active participation from all tourism stakeholders to make the archipelago a premier destination for yacht chartering.
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Future Prospects:
The introduction of e-visa entry at Port Blair seaport is expected to bring both direct and indirect revenue to the islands through foreign exchange. However, some travel agents have pointed out that for yacht tourism to truly flourish in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, the central government needs to reconsider the high import tax on yachts, which currently stands at around 50 percent.
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Promoting Yacht Tourism:
To further promote yacht tourism, a delegation from the AATO recently participated in the India International Travel Mart in Bengaluru, showcasing the Andaman and Nicobar Islands as a premier destination for yacht charters.
With this new development, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands are set to become a significant hub for international tourism. Travelers can look forward to seamless and secure digital payments with the UPI One World service, ensuring a hassle-free experience while exploring India’s stunning landscapes. For more information on travel destinations in India, visit Tusk Travel.
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FAQs
1. What is the new rule for foreign travelers entering Andaman and Nicobar Islands? F
oreign travelers holding an e-visa can now enter the Andaman and Nicobar Islands through Port Blair Seaport.
2. When is the best time to visit the Andaman and Nicobar Islands for yacht chartering?
The best time for yacht chartering is from October to May, due to the calm seas and pleasant tropical climate.
3. How many seaports in India now accept e-visas?
There are six seaports that accept e-visas: Mumbai, Cochin, Mormugao, Chennai, New Mangalore, and Port Blair.
4. What impact will the new e-visa entry point have on tourism in Andaman and Nicobar Islands?
The new e-visa entry point is expected to boost tourism, particularly yacht tourism, and bring in significant foreign exchange revenue.
5. What challenges do travel agents foresee for yacht tourism in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands?
Travel agents believe that yacht tourism can only thrive if the central government reduces the high import tax on yachts.
