Why in News?
The A & N Administration has prepared GIS maps for de-notification & re-notification of tribal reserve land for the Great Nicobar Island Project. Transit accommodation for project staff is complete and a Comprehensive Tribal Welfare Plan will be finalised next month — even as the forest rights settlement is being challenged in Court (Nov 2025).
Description:
About the Project:
- A mega Greenfield infrastructure project in Great Nicobar Island
- Conceived by NITI Aayog, approved by Union Cabinet (2021)
- Nodal Agency: ANIIDCO (Andaman and Nicobar Islands Integrated Development Corporation)
Major Components:
- International Transshipment Port at Galathea Bay
- Greenfield International Airport
- 450 MW Power Plant
- Modern Township
Strategic Importance:
- Close to Malacca Strait (major global choke point)
- Strengthens India’s Indo-Pacific presence & maritime security
- Reduces dependence on Singapore / Colombo transshipment
- Enhances Tri-Services Command capability in A&N Islands
Tribal Rights Issue:
- Tribes: Shompen (PVTG) & Nicobarese
- Conflict: FRA 2006 (Gram Sabha consent mandatory) vs PAT 1956 (administration unilateral powers)
- MoTA earlier sought factual report on forest rights settlement claim
- Tribal rights settlement is under judicial challenge
Ecological Concerns:
- Great Nicobar = one of India’s richest biodiversity hotspots (85% forest cover)
- Galathea Bay = Ramsar site + major Leatherback Turtle nesting zone
- ~9.6 lakh trees may be felled
- Coral reefs + mangroves + seagrass at risk
- Located in high seismic zone (2004 Tsunami fault line)
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