Daily Current Affairs : 6-January-2025
The Union Shipping Ministry has proposed a significant expansion of the ₹72,000 crore mega-infrastructure project on Great Nicobar Island. This ambitious project aims to transform the island into a major hub for maritime trade, tourism, and sustainable energy. However, while the project holds potential economic and strategic benefits, it also raises serious environmental and humanitarian concerns.
Key Features of the Project
The project, led by the Andaman and Nicobar Islands Integrated Development Corporation Ltd (ANIIDCO), includes several major developments:
- International Container Transshipment Terminal (ICTT): This terminal will help position Great Nicobar as a key player in global maritime trade.
- International Airport: The airport will facilitate easier connectivity for both business and tourism.
- Township Development: Plans for residential and commercial infrastructure to support the growing population.
- 450 MVA Gas and Solar-based Power Plant: This will generate renewable energy, reducing the island’s dependence on fossil fuels.
All of these facilities will be located at Galathea Bay, a remote area on the southeastern corner of the island, which currently has no human habitation.
Significance of the Project
- Economic Growth: The ICTT will enhance India’s global trade position by reducing dependency on foreign ports for cargo transshipment.
- Strategic Importance: It strengthens India’s maritime capabilities, ensuring greater control over regional sea lanes and trade routes.
- Sustainability: The combination of gas and solar energy will provide a cleaner, renewable power source, contributing to India’s goal of a greener future.
New Additions to the Project
In addition to the core infrastructure, the project now includes:
- International Cruise Terminal: Designed to boost global tourism to the island.
- High-end Tourism Infrastructure: Aims to develop eco-tourism, positioning Great Nicobar as a global eco-tourism destination.
- Shipbuilding and Ship Breaking Facility: A proposal for a dedicated port area for ship construction and dismantling, along with an export-import port.
Concerns and Controversies
Despite the potential benefits, the project has raised several concerns:
- Ecological Degradation: The project threatens around 33,000 acres of biodiversity-rich forests. It could harm marine ecosystems, including coral reefs and the nesting grounds of endangered species.
- Humanitarian Issues: Indigenous communities, such as the Payuh people, who have traditional rights over the land, are at risk of being displaced. This could disrupt their way of life and cultural heritage.
- Transparency Concerns: Requests for detailed information about the project were denied under the RTI Act, citing national security reasons. This lack of transparency has raised doubts about the project’s full impact.
Important Points
- Project Overview:
- ₹72,000 crore mega-infrastructure project on Great Nicobar Island.
- Led by Andaman and Nicobar Islands Integrated Development Corporation Ltd (ANIIDCO).
- Involves an International Container Transshipment Terminal (ICTT), an international airport, township development, and a 450 MVA gas and solar-based power plant.
- Key Developments:
- ICTT: Enhances India’s role in global maritime trade.
- International Airport: Improves connectivity for trade and tourism.
- Township: Develops residential and commercial infrastructure.
- Renewable Energy Plant: 450 MVA gas and solar-based power generation to reduce reliance on fossil fuels.
- Location:
- Galathea Bay, southeastern Great Nicobar Island, currently uninhabited.
- Significance:
- Economic Growth: Boosts regional economic activity and trade.
- Strategic Importance: Strengthens India’s maritime capabilities.
- Sustainability: Focus on renewable energy and eco-tourism.
- New Additions:
- International Cruise Terminal: Boosts global tourism.
- High-end Tourism Infrastructure: Aims to position the island as a global eco-tourism destination.
- Shipbuilding and Ship Breaking Facility: Proposal for a dedicated port area for shipbuilding and dismantling.
- Concerns:
- Ecological Impact: Threatens 33,000 acres of biodiversity-rich forests and marine ecosystems.
- Humanitarian Issues: Potential displacement of indigenous communities (e.g., the Payuh people) and disruption of their livelihoods and cultural heritage.
- Transparency Issues: Denied project details under the RTI Act, raising concerns about its full impact.
Why In News
The Union Shipping Ministry has proposed a major expansion of the ₹72,000 crore mega-infrastructure project on Great Nicobar Island, which aims to transform the island into a global maritime hub while driving economic growth and sustainability in the region.
MCQs about Great Nicobar Mega Infrastructure Project
-
What is the primary goal of the ₹72,000 crore mega-infrastructure project on Great Nicobar Island?
A. To develop a military base for strategic defense purposes
B. To create a global maritime hub and boost regional economic growth
C. To focus on wildlife conservation and eco-tourism
D. To establish a space research center
-
Which of the following is NOT a component of the Great Nicobar Island project?
A. International Container Transshipment Terminal (ICTT)
B. International Airport
C. Space Research Center
D. Township Development
-
What environmental concern is associated with the Great Nicobar Island project?
A. Increase in forest cover
B. Destruction of 33,000 acres of biodiversity-rich forests
C. Preservation of coral reefs
D. Creation of artificial islands
-
Which indigenous community is at risk of displacement due to the Great Nicobar Island project?
A. Bhil
B. Payuh
C. Toda
D. Gujjars
Boost up your confidence by appearing our Weekly Current Affairs Multiple Choice Questions
