Great Nicobar Island Project

The Great Nicobar Island Project is an ambitious initiative by the Narendra Modi government aimed at transforming Great Nicobar into a significant hub for maritime and air connectivity in the Indian Ocean Region. It integrates multiple development aspects, including an international container transshipment terminal, a greenfield airport, and a gas and solar-based power plant.

Key Components of the Project

• International Container Transshipment Terminal (ICTT) with a capacity of 14.2 million TEU.
• 450 MVA gas and solar-based power plant.
• Greenfield international airport.
• A township covering an area of 16,610 hectares.

Environmental and Tribal Considerations

• The project claims to pose no threat to local tribal groups like the Nicobarese and Shompen, nor to the region's biodiversity.
• Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) and Environmental Management Plan (EMP) were developed to mitigate potential impacts during construction and operation phases.
• A risk assessment and a vulnerability and disaster management plan have been completed.
• ₹81.55 crore has been allocated for wildlife conservation plans.

Tribal Welfare and Consultations

• A committee is established to oversee issues related to the Shompen and Nicobarese tribes.
• The project will not displace existing tribal populations, ensuring their welfare and integrity.
• Adequate budgetary provisions are in place for tribal welfare, aligning with existing policies like the Jarawa Policy of 2004 and Shompen Policy of 2015.
• Efforts include consultation with the Union Ministry of Tribal Affairs and other relevant bodies.

Land Allocation and Environmental Measures

• A total of 166.10 sq. km is proposed for development, with phased execution from 2025 to 2047.
• 73.07 sq. km of tribal reserve land will be de-notified, with 76.98 sq. km re-notified, resulting in a net increase in tribal reserve area.
• The project involves the diversion of 130.75 sq. km of forest land, which is 1.82% of the total forest area in the region.
• Compensatory afforestation will occur in other states due to insufficient non-forest land in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
• Wildlife corridors and other environmental safeguards are included to protect local biodiversity.

Strategic and National Significance

• The project is of strategic, defense, and national importance, enhancing India's position in the Indian Ocean Region.
• It is expected to accelerate economic growth, generate employment, and ensure holistic development while adhering to environmental standards.

The Great Nicobar Project exemplifies the balance between economic development and ecological preservation, ensuring that strategic and developmental interests align with environmental conservation.