Why such permissions and restrictions ?? :

Though Andaman & Nicobar is gradually being promoted as one of the best tourist destinations available today, Few key factors are making the task practically impossible. The probable factors are :
Presence of aboriginal tribes in these Islands who are nearing extinction (see Tribal reserve area - below). Due care is taken to keep them isolated from human civilization so that they can flourish in their natural habitat.

From ancient times Andaman & Nicobar is notified as a strategic military point. For the same reason it was once occupied by British and Japanese. An inscription dated 1059 AD of the Chola King of Tanjore indicates that these islands were used as base shelter station for waging war and keeping control over South East Asia.

Improper maintenance, rapid growth of population and foreign poachers are posing a major threat to the precious flora and fauna of the Islands.

Tourists therefore require to comply with the strict immigration rules.

TRIBAL RESERVE AREA :

The Islands have been declared Tribal Reserve Area under Andaman and Nicobar Islands (Protection of Aboriginal Tribal) Regulation, 1956 with the exception of eastern coast of Great Nicobar, comprising 7 villages, which is non-reserve area, where 330 Ex-Servicemen families were settled under Accelerated development Programme of Ministry of Labour and Rehabilitation in 1969-72. According to the Regulation, no non-tribal is permitted to carry on any business or acquire land in tribal reserve without permission of Lt. Governor. The violation of Andaman & Nicobar (Protection of Aboriginal Tribes) Regulation, is cognizable vide Sec. 9 and subsequent notification No. AN/PATR/9(1)/6 dated 6th May 1957.

GUIDELINES FOR TOURISTS :

The ancient monuments and National Parks are part of Indian heritage. They should be treated as per specific directions at the spot.

Avail the services of authorized tourist guides only. Avail the services of Scuba Dive Instructors having certification of international professional organizations like PADI, CMAS, NAUI, BSAC or SSI for safe diving experience.

Vehicles are available on hire. While driving follow the traffic rules. Legal documents like driving license, permit, passport etc. should be carried along.

To take photographs/video inside a sanctuary or a Marine National Park permission from the Chief Wildlife Warden is to be obtained.

Photography/videography of Airports, Government dockyard, defense establishments, Naval wharves, Dhanikari Dam and Chatham Saw Mill is not allowed.

Do not try photography or videography inside Tribal Reserve areas or of the indigenous tribes. Beware! the indigenous tribes may snatch away your cameras and vanish into the woods (especially if you are traveling towards Middle Andaman). Probably they have been taught that filming them is illegal.

Later::::::::::::::Consult life guards before entering the sea.

Dispose off the garbage and plastics at proper places/dustbins. Help us to keep the beaches and the environment clean. Throwing plastics and non-biodegradable waste into the sea is not appreciated.

Take care of the coral reef, Do not stand on the coral reef while snorkeling / Scuba diving / Swimming. Collection of corals either dead or alive is highly objectionable.

Obtain a transit pass from the Deputy Conservator of Forests, Wildlife Division, Port Blair, to transport any wild animal / trophy / article etc. outside the islands. Do not collect, destroy or remove any living or dead animal/plant. Collecting Sea fans and seashells is also not permitted unless specific permits are obtained from the Fisheries Department.

Your concern for nature conservation is highly appreciated. Please inform local authorities/staff positioned in protected areas if you notice any undesirable activity.

Nudity & alcohol consumption on beaches and public places is forbidden.

Contact Tourist Information Centers / Police personnel for any assistance required