Responding to environmental and tribal concerns, the Central Government has defended the ₹81,000 crore Great Nicobar Project, framing it as a vital strategic initiative for India’s maritime future and national security. The project aims to transform the island into a global trade hub, leveraging its location near the world’s busiest shipping routes.
Strategic and Economic Goals
The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC) highlighted that the project is designed to reduce India’s reliance on foreign transshipment ports like Singapore and Sri Lanka.
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Location Advantage: The island sits just 40 nautical miles from a primary East-West shipping lane.
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Key Infrastructure:
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An International Container Transshipment Terminal.
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A Greenfield International Airport (capacity for 4,000 peak-hour passengers).
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A 450 MVA gas and solar power plant.
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A modern township spanning over 16,000 hectares.
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Environmental and Social Safeguards
Following allegations by Congress MP Rahul Gandhi regarding deforestation and tribal displacement, the government provided a detailed environmental breakdown:
| Concern | Government Clarification |
| Deforestation | Only 1.82% of the Andaman and Nicobar forest cover will be diverted. Of the 18.65 lakh trees in the area, only 7.11 lakh are slated for felling in phases. |
| Mitigation | Compensatory afforestation across 97.30 sq. km and 66 sq. km of designated green zones. |
| Tribal Rights | No displacement of Shompen or Nicobarese tribes. The total notified tribal reserve area is expected to see a net increase through re-notification. |
| Timeline | Phased implementation between 2025 and 2047 to monitor social and ecological impacts. |
A Point of Contention
Despite the government’s assurances of “careful monitoring” and “phased development,” the project remains a flashpoint for critics. International and domestic petitions have previously pointed to:
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Potential flaws in the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA).
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The island’s extreme vulnerability to seismic activity and tsunamis.
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The long-term impact on the unique biodiversity of the Indo-Pacific region.
The Centre maintains that the project is a “strategic necessity” to strengthen India’s footprint in the Indo-Pacific while balancing development with preservation.
