Why in News?
Concerns regarding the impact of the Great Nicobar Infrastructure Project on tribal lands and forest rights have again been raised before the chairperson of the National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST), with the tribal council flagging “unanswered concerns”.
Description:
Key Terms / Definitions:
Partially Vulnerable Tribal Group (PVTG): A sub-classification of Scheduled Tribes characterized by a declining/stagnant population, low literacy, and a pre-agricultural level of technology (e.g., the Shompen).
About / Overview:
- Scale & Scope: The project covers over 166 sq km of land on Great Nicobar Island.
- Lead Agency: Andaman and Nicobar Islands Integrated Development Corporation (ANIIDCO).
- Strategic Value: Located near the Strait of Malacca, the island provides a critical vantage point for monitoring sea lanes vital for global trade and maritime security.
Core Features of the Project:
The mega-project consists of four primary components:
- International Transshipment Port: Located at Galathea Bay.
- Greenfield International Airport: For both civil and military use.
- Power Plant: A 450 MVA gas and solar power-based plant.
- Integrated Township: A new coastal city to support economic activity.
Important Facts
- Forest Diversion: Involves the diversion of approximately 130 sq km of forest land.
- Indigenous Tribes: Home to the Shompen (approx. 200–300 individuals) and the Nicobarese community.
- Southernmost Tip: The island houses Indira Point, the southernmost point of Indian territory.
- Ecological Status: Great Nicobar is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve (added to the MAB list in 2013).
About the National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST):
- Nature: Constitutional Body.
- Constitutional Basis: Established under Article 338A.
- Evolution: Bifurcated from the erstwhile National Commission for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes via the 89th Constitutional Amendment Act, 2003
- Nodal Ministry: Ministry of Tribal Affairs.
- Composition: A Chairperson, a Vice-Chairperson, and three full-time Members (including at least one female member).
- Tenure: Members hold office for a term of 3 years.
- Powers: Vested with the powers of a Civil Court while investigating any matter.
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