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Great Nicobar Project: Balancing Development & Environment – What’s the Latest Update?

The Indian government recently submitted a high-powered committee (HPC) report on the Great Nicobar Island mega project to the National Green Tribunal (NGT). The project, aimed at boosting infrastructure and maritime security, has raised concerns over ecological damage, tribal displacement, and wildlife conservation. With ₹80 crore already allocated for conservation efforts, the debate continues: Can development and environmental protection coexist?

Key Highlights of the Great Nicobar Island Project
1. What is the Great Nicobar Project?
A mega infrastructure initiative covering 16,610 hectares, including:
International Container Transhipment Terminal (ICTT)
Greenfield international airport (4,000 passengers/hour capacity)
Township & power plant (gas & solar-based)
Implemented by Andaman and Nicobar Islands Integrated Development Corporation (ANIIDCO)

2. Why is it Controversial?
Ecological Concerns:
Threat to leatherback sea turtles, Nicobar megapode, coconut crabs, and coral reefs.
Located near two national parks and a biosphere reserve.
Tribal Impact:
Home to Shompen and Nicobarese tribes; project may disrupt their habitat.
Legal Scrutiny:
NGT questioned baseline data gaps, coral translocation, and coastal regulations.

3. Latest Developments
₹80 crore released for wildlife conservation (turtles, megapodes, macaques).
HPC report submitted to NGT, affirming environmental clearances were followed.
Overarching committee formed (Jan 2024) to monitor compliance.

4. Strategic Importance
Boosts India’s maritime security (just 170 km from Indonesia).
Enhances trade via new transhipment port.

Sample Questions & Answers (For Competitive Exams)
Q1: What is the significance of the Great Nicobar Island Project for India’s maritime security?
Ans: The project enhances India’s presence near the Strait of Malacca, a crucial shipping route, strengthening naval surveillance and trade security.
Q2: Which endangered species are affected by the Great Nicobar Project?
Ans: Leatherback sea turtles, Nicobar megapodes, coconut crabs, and long-tailed macaques face habitat disruption.
Q3: What role does ANIIDCO play in the project?
Ans: ANIIDCO (Andaman and Nicobar Islands Integrated Development Corporation) is the implementing agency for the infrastructure development.
Q4: Why did NGT form a high-powered committee (HPC) for this project?
Ans: To address environmental concerns, coral conservation, and tribal welfare issues raised in petitions.
Q5: How much funding has been allocated for wildlife conservation under this project?
Ans: ₹80 crore has been released for turtle conservation, coral translocation, and tribal healthcare.

Why is This Important for Exams?
SSC/PSC: Covers environmental policies, current affairs, and governance.
UPSC (Prelims & Mains): Links to biodiversity, tribal rights, and infrastructure development.
NID/NIFT/FDDI: Tests awareness of sustainable development and ecological balance.