DO OPEN SEA FISH CAGES HAVE RECREATIONAL VALUE?  A CAGE TOURISM OUTLOOK FOR ANDAMAN ISLANDS, INDIA

The abstract makes an explorative overview on the potential of including open sea fish cage culture under the inclusive coastal tourism concept which would aid in popularizing the sector through recreational use, despite their role in fish production. The suggestion being theoretical mainly explores the possible benefits of such integration which could support social and economic growth of islanders who heavily rely on tourism sector for employment opportunities. Andaman and Nicobar Islands (ANI) are attracting large number of national and international tourists ever year due to its strategic setting, pristine beaches and exceptional biodiversity. Not surprisingly, tourism industry is booming with most progressive tourism including sport fishing, aquarium watch, SCUBA diving, snorkelling, sea walks, reef watch, paragliding, water sports etc.

Coastal tourism with cage culture could provide numerous benefits to stakeholders. It could produce fishes, attracts entrepreneurs and generate revenues. These water tourism activities normally extend from shoreline to a depth of 10m or more depending on activities. Advantageously these depths are also more conducive for open sea cage culture. A model representation is shown in Fig.1. For instance fish cages with walkable platforms juxtapose to aqua tourism activities would allow tourists to see the fishes cultured and to feed the fishes. The follow up actions proposed are, to identify potential locations where such model could be replicated, to conduct a pilot survey among tourists on such proposed interests, to evaluate role of stakeholders in department of fisheries, tourism and forests, to discuss with potential entrepreneurs towards understanding their willingness to cooperate for the mutual development interests and to enforce a preliminary model to foresee the potential of such integration for further expansion.

Rather than being more scientific, recreational approach could be more beneficial for expanding and popularizing cage culture activities. However, the active participation of various government and non-governmental organizations are essential to foster innovations and employment in such proposed models. With booming tourism opportunities ahead, this could be win-win situation for tourism and fisheries sector in the islands.