Andaman and Nicobar Islands: Strategic Significance and Infrastructure Upgrade

GS-3 mains : Economy 

Short Notes or Revision Notes 

Question : Discuss the geostrategic significance of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands for India and explain the recent military infrastructure upgrades undertaken in the region.

Geostrategic Significance

• Plays an important role in regional security and disaster situations
• Provides a commanding position over traffic between the Andaman Sea and South China Sea through the Malacca Strait (critical for trade)
• Andaman and Nicobar Command (ANC) established in 2001 (India’s first tri-service command)

Economic Potential

• 2% of India’s landmass but 30% of its Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ)
• Blue economy holds significant development potential

Strategic Military Infrastructure Upgrade (as of April 10, 2024)

• Revamped Airfields and Jetties
  • Airstrip extension to accommodate larger aircraft (P8Is, fighter jets)
  • Expanded jetty to accommodate bigger ships
• Additional Logistics and Storage Facilities
  • Deployment of additional forces, larger warships, aircraft, missile batteries
  • Runway expansion to 3,000 meters and maintenance infrastructure creation
• Habitat for Troops
  • Enhanced surveillance on a northern island
  • Construction of permanent troop habitat
• Robust Surveillance Infrastructure

Challenges and Issues

• Ecological Impact: Threat to fragile ecosystem and Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs)
• Protection of Indigenous Tribes: Balancing development with tribal and ecological well-being
• Infrastructure and Industrialization: Slow internet, transportation bottlenecks, lack of skilled workforce, low population density, and resource scarcity
• Climate Change Vulnerability: Impacts on forests, biodiversity, coastal ecosystems, agriculture, fisheries, water resources, and energy

Conclusion

• Andaman and Nicobar Islands are strategically important for trade, commerce, and strategic cooperation.
• Crucial component of India’s Act East Policy for regional engagement.
• Military infrastructure upgrade strengthens India’s defense capabilities.
• Responsible development is essential to protect the unique ecology and indigenous populations.