List of Islands of India: Andaman, Nicobar, Lakshadweep, and Other

Islands of India: India has many islands of India located in the Bay of Bengal and the Arabian Sea. The major groups are the Andaman and Nicobar Islands and the Lakshadweep Islands, each with unique geology, tropical climate, and rich biodiversity. These islands are important for tourism, fishing, and local economies.

Apart from these, India has numerous coastal and riverine islands, such as Majuli, Sagar, and Elephanta. The islands also hold strategic importance due to their location near shipping lanes. Knowing their locations, features, and maps is crucial for UPSC and other competitive exams.

What is Islands of India?

The islands of India are landmasses completely surrounded by water, located within India’s territorial limits. They are distinct geographical features. They hold importance for maritime security, ecological balance, and economic activities like tourism and fishing. Here we explore the main island groups and their features.

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Andaman and Nicobar Islands

The Andaman and Nicobar Islands form a group of 572 islands in the Bay of Bengal. They stretch in an arc shape. These islands are a Union Territory of India.

• Andaman Islands: This northern group has three main sub-groups: North Andaman, Middle Andaman, and South Andaman.
  • Little Andaman and Great Andaman are separated by the 50 km wide Duncan Passage.
  • Port Blair, the capital, is on South Andaman.
  • Many Andaman Islands, including Barren and Narcondam, have a volcanic base.
  • Saddle Peak (737m) in North Andaman is the highest point.
  • Recently, Ross Island was renamed Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Dweep. Neil Island became Shaheed Dweep, and Havelock Island became Swaraj Dweep.

• Nicobar Islands: This southern group lies south of the Andaman Islands.
  • The Ten Degree Channel separates Andaman from Nicobar Islands.
  • They divide into Northern, Central, and Southern Groups.
  • The Key Nicobar Islands include Car Nicobar, Teressa, Katchal, and Great Nicobar.
  • Great Nicobar is the largest Nicobar island. India’s southernmost point, Indira Point, is located here.
  • The indigenous groups are Nicobarese and Shompen.

Lakshadweep Islands

The Lakshadweep Islands are an archipelago of 36 coral islands in the Arabian Sea. They lie close to the Malabar coast of Kerala. The name “Lakshadweep” means “one hundred thousand islands.” These Lakshadweep Islands are of coral origin. They have flat topography with shallow lagoons on the western side. Kavaratti is the capital of Lakshadweep.

• Andrott Island: Andrott is the largest island in Lakshadweep.

• Amindivi Islands: These Amindivi Islands are located north of 11° N latitude.

• Cannanore Islands: These Cannanore Islands are situated south of 11° N latitude.

• Minicoy Island: Minicoy is the southernmost and largest island within the Laccadive group. It is the most advanced island among Lakshadweep.

• Bitra Island: Bitra is the smallest island in terms of land area within the Lakshadweep group.

Important Coastal Islands of India

Besides the major island groups, India has numerous offshore and inshore islands along its coastline and in riverine systems.

• Andhra Pradesh: Bhavani Island, Sriharikota.
• Assam: Majuli Island (largest river island globally).
• Goa: Divar, Chorão.
• Gujarat: Bet Dwarka, Piram Island.
• Kerala: Willingdon Island, Vypin.
• Maharashtra: Elephanta Island, Salsette Island (where Mumbai is located).
• Tamil Nadu: Pamban Island, Hare Island.
• West Bengal: Sagar Island (Sundarbans)

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State/Union Territory Wise List of Offshore and Inshore Islands and Rocks

India has a vast number of islands located in the Bay of Bengal, Arabian Sea, and along its coastlines. The following table provides a state/union territory-wise list of major offshore and inshore islands for easy reference.

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Key Features of Islands of India

The islands of India are unique in their geology, climate, and biodiversity, making them ecologically and economically important. They also hold strategic significance due to their location near international shipping lanes.

• Geological Origin: The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are largely extensions of the Arakan Yoma mountain range, with a volcanic base. The Lakshadweep Islands are coral formations (atolls).
• Climate: Both groups experience tropical climates. The Andaman and Nicobar Islands have an equatorial climate.
• Biodiversity: These islands are biodiversity hotspots. They feature diverse flora and fauna, including endemic species.
• Strategic Location: The islands of India, especially the Andaman and Nicobar group, hold significant geopolitical importance due to their proximity to international shipping lanes.
• Economic Value: They support local economies through fisheries, coconut cultivation, and a growing tourism sector.

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