Andaman and Nicobar Islands Integrated Development Corporation

Qualifications of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands Integrated Development Corporation (ANIIDCO) come into question with regard to having a proper internal environmental governance system

• Great Nicobar Island Project (GNI) for infrastructure upgrade on Great Nicobar Island is being implemented by the ANIIDCO 

About Great Nicobar Island Project (GNI)

• Location: Launched in 2021, GNI project is located at the southern tip of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. 
• Components: 
  • Trans-shipment port
  • International airport
  • Development of a township
  • Establishment of a 450 MVA gas and solar-based power plant.
• NITI Aayog Report: The project was launched following a NITI Aayog report that highlighted the potential to leverage the island’s strategic location, 
  • Island is roughly equidistant from Colombo in Sri Lanka to the southwest, and Port Klang in Malaysia and Singapore to the southeast.
• Features of the Project: This mega infrastructure project includes a proposed International Container Transshipment Terminal (ICTT) and a greenfield international airport.
• Jurisdiction: The port will be under the jurisdiction of the Indian Navy, while the airport will serve both military and civilian purposes, including tourism.
• Implementing Agency: Andaman and Nicobar Islands Integrated Development Corporation (ANIIDCO)

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Challenges in The Great Nicobar Project

• Biodiversity Loss: The project threatens significant ecological areas, including habitats of the Nicobar Megapode, leatherback sea turtles, and other endemic species. 
• Displacement and Cultural Erosion: The Shompen and Nicobarese tribes face potential displacement and cultural disruption due to the influx of non-indigenous populations and large-scale construction activities. 
• Earthquake Vulnerability: The proposed port is located in a seismically volatile zone. 
  • This raises concerns about the safety and viability of constructing such a large-scale infrastructure project in a high-risk, disaster-prone area
• Legal Violations: Critics argue that the project may violate the Forest Rights Act, 2006, which safeguards the land rights of indigenous communities. 
• Strategic Concerns:
  • Geopolitical Significance: The strategic importance of Great Nicobar is underscored by its proximity to key maritime routes, such as the Malacca Strait. 
    • The development aims to enhance India’s naval capabilities and counterbalance Chinese influence in the region.
  • Military Infrastructure: The dual-use airport and the international container trans-shipment terminal will not only boost economic activities but also serve as strategic military assets, enhancing India’s ability to monitor and secure critical maritime routes​​.

Potential Solutions

• Enhanced Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA): Conduct thorough and transparent EIAs that incorporate long-term ecological studies and stakeholder consultations to mitigate environmental damage​.
• Inclusive Decision-Making: Involve indigenous communities in the planning and decision-making processes. 
• Compensatory Measures: Develop comprehensive compensation and rehabilitation packages for affected communities.
• Strategic and Sustainable Development: Align the project with sustainable development goals, balancing economic growth with ecological and social responsibilities. 
• Strategic Partnerships: Collaborate with international environmental and human rights organizations to monitor and guide the project’s implementation, ensuring compliance with global standards.

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