Recent News
The Andaman and Nicobar Islands’ administration has initiated the next phase of the contentious Great Nicobar Integrated Development Plan. A recent call for financial bids seeks to assess the social impact of land acquisition required for a strategic arterial road, a key component of the project aimed at enhancing connectivity and infrastructure.
Geographical Overview
Nestled at the southern extremity of the Nicobar archipelago, Great Nicobar is India’s southernmost island. Separated from the Andaman Islands by the Ten Degree Channel, it spans approximately 1,044 square kilometers. The island remains largely untouched, with over 85% of its terrain cloaked in dense tropical rainforests. Its pristine coastline stretches for more than 100 kilometers, adorned with unspoiled beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and turquoise waters.
Key Landmarks and Features
- Indira Point : India’s southernmost tip, lying just 150 kilometers from Indonesia.
- Mount Thullier : The island’s highest peak at 642 meters (2,105 feet), offering panoramic views.
- Major Rivers : Galathea, Alexandra, and Dagmar, which sustain the island’s ecosystems.
Cultural and Tribal Significance
Great Nicobar is home to two indigenous communities: the Shompen people, semi-nomadic hunter-gatherers, and the Nicobarese, who practice subsistence farming and fishing. Their traditional lifestyles remain deeply intertwined with the island’s natural resources.
Biodiversity Hotspot
Designated as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, the island is a treasure trove of ecological diversity:
- Flora : Over 650 species of plants thrive here, including rare endemics like the tree fern (Cyathea albosetacea ) and the orchid Phalaenopsis speciosa .
- Fauna : The region shelters numerous endangered and endemic species, such as the Nicobar Tree Shrew, Dugong, Saltwater Crocodile, and the elusive Reticulated Python. Birdlife includes the Nicobar Megapode and Serpent Eagle, while marine ecosystems host marine turtles and vibrant coral reefs.
Conclusion
Balancing development with conservation remains a critical challenge for Great Nicobar, given its ecological sensitivity and cultural heritage. The ongoing development plans continue to spark debates over their potential impact on this fragile ecosystem.
Frequently Asked Questions (Revised)
- Which island marks the southern tip of the Nicobar archipelago?
Great Nicobar Island - What geographical feature separates Great Nicobar from the Andaman Islands?
The Ten Degree Channel, a strait named for its location near the 10°N latitude. - What is India’s southernmost geographic point?
Indira Point, situated on Great Nicobar Island.