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26 July 2026

Great Nicobar Island Project controversy

The Great Nicobar Island Project is a major national infrastructure policy that directly involves critical debates on environmental impact assessment, tribal rights, and strategic development, making it a high-probability topic for UPSC Mains.

1 min read Day 3 of 7 2 questions 2 prelims

Notes

  • The Great Nicobar Island Project involves a total area of 166 sq. km.
  • Key components of the project include a trans-shipment port at Galathea Bay, a dual-purpose airport, and infrastructure for cruise tourism, casinos, theme parks, and a finance hub.
  • The trans-shipment port accounts for approximately 50% of the project budget.
  • The dual-purpose airport accounts for approximately 10% of the budget and 5% of the total land area.
  • Environmental and social concerns include the felling of forest-covered hills, potential destruction of Shompen tribal land, and disruption of international bird flyways.
  • Critics suggest expanding the existing INS Baaz at Campbell Bay as a lower-impact alternative to the proposed greenfield airport.
  • A High-Powered Committee was appointed by the National Green Tribunal (NGT) to review the project.

Part of a longer story

This is day 3 of 7 in Great Nicobar Infrastructure Development Project, which has been running since 25 June 2026. Reading it whole is usually worth more than reading today alone — the exam asks how something developed.

Questions

  1. Critically examine the challenges of balancing large-scale infrastructure development with ecological conservation in ecologically sensitive regions like the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. 150 words
    Attempt this — 150 words in 8 min
    0 / 150 words 8:00
  2. The development of strategic infrastructure in island territories requires a multi-dimensional approach that considers both national security and environmental sustainability. Discuss the potential conflicts and the need for a balanced framework in implementing such projects. 250 words
    Attempt this — 250 words in 11 min
    0 / 250 words 11:00

Prelims

  1. Which of the following is a primary environmental concern associated with the proposed Great Nicobar Island Project?

  2. The 'INS Baaz' is an existing naval facility located at:

Syllabus

Topics

Sources

250words.in · https://250words.in/daily/2026-07-26/great-nicobar-island-project-controversy