Why in news?
The Government of India recently cleared a multi‑component development plan for Great Nicobar Island. The project aims to transform the island into a logistics, trade and defence hub while maintaining environmental safeguards and tribal welfare.
Background
Great Nicobar is the southernmost island of the Andaman and Nicobar archipelago. Its strategic position near the Malacca Strait — through which a large share of global shipping passes — has long been recognised. Previous proposals for development were delayed because of ecological sensitivity and the presence of Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) such as the Shompen and Nicobarese.
Major components
- International Container Transhipment Terminal: A deep‑water port with a planned capacity of 14.2 million TEUs will reduce India’s dependence on foreign ports like Colombo and Singapore.
- Greenfield international airport: This airport will improve connectivity, promote tourism and allow rapid deployment of troops and supplies.
- Power and township: A 450 MVA gas‑plus‑solar plant will provide reliable power, and an integrated township of over 16,000 hectares will accommodate workers and residents.
- Phased development: The project will be implemented in three phases between 2025 and 2047 to spread investment and minimise ecological stress.
Why the project matters
- Strategic positioning: Proximity to the Malacca Strait enhances India’s ability to monitor sea‑lanes and project naval power, reinforcing the Andaman and Nicobar Command.
- Economic boost: By creating a major transhipment hub, the project supports the Sagarmala and Maritime India Vision 2030 initiatives and reduces transhipment costs for Indian exports and imports.
- Employment and local development: Thousands of jobs are expected, along with eco‑tourism opportunities that can benefit local communities.
Concerns and safeguards
- Environmental sensitivity: Clearing forests and building on a seismically active island risks damage to endemic flora and fauna, including nesting sites of leatherback turtles.
- Tribal welfare: Protecting the cultural heritage and livelihoods of the Shompen and Nicobarese communities is a legal requirement under EIA guidelines and the Shompen Policy of 2015.
- Disaster risks: The island sits in a high seismic zone; infrastructure must be tsunami‑ and cyclone‑resistant.
Way forward
Real‑time environmental monitoring, community participation, renewable‑energy integration and resilient design are essential. Partnerships with regional groups like BIMSTEC and the Quad could share investment and expertise, helping India balance development and conservation in this strategic region.