Mains Marathon

Approach:

• Briefly introduce the Great Nicobar Island (GNI) Project.
• Critically assess how the project balances national security, economic development, and ecological fragility.
• Conclude with a suitable way forward.

Introduction :

The ₹72,000 crore Great Nicobar Island (GNI) Project envisions a transshipment port, international airport, power plant, and township on India’s southernmost island. While the project promises strategic and economic advantages, it is located in an ecologically fragile and culturally sensitive zone.

Body :

National Security Imperatives :

• Strategic Location: GNI lies near the Strait of Malacca, a vital maritime chokepoint through which ~30% of global trade passes. Developing military infrastructure here strengthens India's control over key sea lanes.
• Defense Readiness: Plans include an expanded naval base, surveillance systems, and airstrip, aimed at countering China’s expanding naval presence in the Indo-Pacific.
• Increased Militarization: The project significantly boosts India's maritime security, enhances presence in the Andaman Sea, and supports the Act East Policy.
  • However, increased militarization could risk community tensions and ecological disruption if not properly managed.

Economic Development Potential :

• Port-led Growth: The proposed International Container Transshipment Terminal (ICTT) could make India a logistics hub, reducing dependence on Colombo and Singapore ports.
• Employment Generation: The project may create over 1 lakh jobs, spur construction, tourism, and local businesses.
• Infrastructure Expansion: The inclusion of a greenfield airport, roads, and power plant promises to uplift the remote island’s connectivity and services.

Ecological Fragility and Environmental Concerns

• Biodiversity Loss: The island is home to endemic species like the Leatherback sea turtle, saltwater crocodiles, and rare birds. The project threatens nesting beaches and forest cover.
  • The Galathea Bay WLS, designated for marine turtle conservation in 1997, was denotified in 2021 for the port, contradicting India’s Marine Turtle Action Plan (2021).
• Deforestation: Around 130 sq km of forest land and nearly 1 million trees are expected to be cleared, impacting carbon sequestration and local climate.
  • The SC appointed Shekhar Singh Commission 2002 report recommended a total ban on tree felling in tribal reserves and national parks and afforestation before felling.
• Tribal Displacement: The Shompen and Nicobarese tribes, protected under the Andaman and Nicobar Protection of Aboriginal Tribes Regulation (ANPATR), face risks to their cultural and physical survival.

Way Forward

• Ensure EIA Implementation: Ensure independent, transparent, and participatory EIAs with inputs from ecologists and tribal representatives.
• Protect Tribal Rights: Implement FRA and PESA provisions to safeguard the autonomy, land rights, and livelihoods of indigenous populations.
• Eco-Sensitive Zoning: Designate marine protected areas, conserve nesting beaches, and restrict high-density construction in fragile zones.
• Green Infrastructure: Adopt sustainable construction practices, afforestation drives, and renewable energy to offset ecological impact.
• Institutional Oversight: Strengthen the role of MoEFCC, NDMA, and local Gram Sabhas in monitoring compliance and mitigating risks.

Conclusion :

The Great Nicobar Island Project represents a bold step towards national security and economic ambition. However, its success depends on striking a delicate balance between strategic priorities, ecological preservation, and social justice. Without inclusive governance and environmental safeguards, short-term gains may lead to irreversible long-term losses.