Andaman and Nicobar Islands

The Andaman and Nicobar Islands constitute a group of islands located in the Bay of Bengal, forming a Union Territory of India. Known for their rich biodiversity, strategic maritime location, and indigenous tribal heritage, these islands are of great ecological, economic, and geopolitical significance. They stretch over 800 kilometres from north to south and serve as a crucial maritime link between South and Southeast Asia.

Geographical Setting

The archipelago comprises around 572 islands, of which approximately 38 are inhabited. The Andaman Islands lie to the north, while the Nicobar Islands are positioned to the south, separated by the Ten Degree Channel. The capital, Port Blair, is situated on South Andaman Island. The territory lies close to several Southeast Asian countries, with Myanmar to the north and Indonesia to the south.
The islands are predominantly hilly and covered with dense tropical rainforests. Mount Harriet and Saddle Peak are among the notable elevations in the Andamans. Volcanic activity is evident in Barren Island, which hosts the only active volcano in India and the wider South Asian region. The Indira Point, located on Great Nicobar Island, marks India’s southernmost tip.

Historical Background

The earliest references to the Andaman Islands appear in ancient Greek and Indian texts, where they were known as the Islands of Cannibals due to the reputation of their indigenous tribes. European colonisation began with the British in the 18th century. The British established a penal settlement in Port Blair in 1858, which later evolved into the infamous Cellular Jail or Kala Pani, where Indian freedom fighters were imprisoned.
During World War II, the islands came under Japanese occupation from 1942 to 1945. Subhas Chandra Bose, as part of the Indian National Army, hoisted the Indian flag here in 1943, declaring the islands the first Indian territory to be liberated from British rule. Post-independence, the islands were formally integrated into India and granted Union Territory status in 1956.

Indigenous Tribes and Demography

The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are home to some of the world’s most isolated indigenous communities. The Andaman group includes tribes such as the Great Andamanese, Onge, Jarwa, and Sentinelese. The Sentinelese of North Sentinel Island remain virtually uncontacted and are protected under strict laws that prohibit external contact to preserve their isolation and culture.
The Nicobar group, on the other hand, includes the Nicobarese and Shompens, who exhibit greater interaction with the outside world compared to their northern counterparts. The total population of the Union Territory is approximately 380,000 (Census 2011), comprising both indigenous groups and settlers from mainland India, including Bengalis, Tamils, and Nicobarese.

Flora, Fauna, and Ecology

The islands boast exceptional biodiversity, harbouring numerous endemic species. Dense mangrove forests and coral reefs fringe the coastlines, supporting a range of marine life. Leatherback turtles, dugongs, and saltwater crocodiles are among the notable species found in the region. The islands also form part of Project Elephant and Project Tiger, with small populations of wildlife such as the Andaman wild pig and Nicobar pigeon.
The Great Nicobar Biosphere Reserve has been recognised by UNESCO for its ecological importance. However, environmental concerns such as deforestation, rising sea levels, and climate change-induced coral bleaching threaten the fragile ecosystem.

Economy and Infrastructure

The economy of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands primarily revolves around tourism, agriculture, fishing, and forestry. The government promotes sustainable tourism, especially around Havelock (Swaraj Dweep) and Neil (Shaheed Dweep) islands, known for their white-sand beaches and coral reefs. Port Blair acts as the main commercial and administrative hub.
Agricultural activities include the cultivation of coconut, arecanut, paddy, and fruits such as banana and pineapple. Fisheries play a significant role in local livelihoods, while small-scale industries include handicrafts and wood-based products. The strategic location also allows for naval and air bases that enhance India’s maritime security and influence in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).

Administration and Governance

Administratively, the territory is divided into three districts — North and Middle Andaman, South Andaman, and Nicobar. It is governed by an Lieutenant Governor, appointed by the President of India, under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Home Affairs. The local governance structure includes a Panchayati Raj system and a District Panchayat.
Special laws protect the interests of tribal populations, with the Andaman and Nicobar Protection of Aboriginal Tribes Regulation, 1956 (ANPATR) being the cornerstone legislation. Entry to certain areas requires permits under the Restricted Area Permit (RAP) system to preserve tribal culture and environmental integrity.

Tourism and Attractions

Tourism remains one of the most vital sectors. Popular destinations include:

• Cellular Jail National Memorial, Port Blair – a historic site symbolising India’s freedom struggle.
• Radhanagar Beach, Havelock Island – ranked among the world’s best beaches.
• Ross Island (Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Island) – showcasing colonial ruins.
• Baratang Island – famous for its limestone caves and mud volcanoes.
• Barren Island – site of India’s only active volcano.

Eco-tourism initiatives and adventure activities such as scuba diving, snorkelling, and sea-walking have contributed significantly to revenue, though sustainable management remains a key concern.

Strategic and Geopolitical Importance

The islands’ strategic location near the Malacca Strait, one of the world’s busiest maritime trade routes, makes them vital for India’s defence and maritime security. The Indian Navy’s INS Baaz at Campbell Bay, Great Nicobar, serves as an important forward operating base. The islands also play a critical role in India’s “Act East Policy” and maritime cooperation with ASEAN nations.
In recent years, the Indian government has launched initiatives to enhance infrastructure, connectivity, and security through projects such as undersea optical fibre cables linking Port Blair to Chennai and the proposed Great Nicobar Island Development Project aimed at creating trans-shipment and logistics hubs.

Contemporary Challenges

Despite developmental progress, the territory faces challenges including environmental degradation, limited connectivity, and the delicate balance between development and tribal protection. Frequent earthquakes and tsunamis, such as the devastating 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami, have also highlighted the region’s vulnerability to natural disasters.