{"id":101549,"date":"2026-05-02T16:52:35","date_gmt":"2026-05-02T11:22:35","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/current-affairs\/?p=101549"},"modified":"2026-05-02T16:52:35","modified_gmt":"2026-05-02T11:22:35","slug":"andaman-and-nicobar-islands","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/current-affairs\/andaman-and-nicobar-islands\/","title":{"rendered":"Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Topography, Climate, Flora, Fauna"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The <\/span><b>Andaman and Nicobar Islands<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> are a group of beautiful islands located in the <\/span><b>Bay of Bengal<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, southeast of mainland India. This island is known for its rich biodiversity, strategic location, and unique tribal culture. These islands are one of India\u2019s most ecologically and culturally important regions.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><b>Topography and Geological Features<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The Andaman and Nicobar Islands have a rugged and mountainous topography, formed as part of a submerged extension of the Arakan Yoma mountain range.<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li aria-level=\"1\"><b>Submerged Mountain Chain<\/b><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"list-style-type: none;\">\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The islands are an extension of the Arakan Yoma fold mountains, stretching from Myanmar to Indonesia.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Mountainous Terrain<\/b>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Most islands are hilly with steep slopes and narrow valleys, while flat land is limited to coastal areas.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Highest Peak<\/b>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><b>Saddle Peak<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (737 m) in North Andaman is the highest point.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Volcanic Origin<\/b>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Many islands have a volcanic base, composed of tertiary sandstone, limestone, and shale.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Active and Dormant Volcanoes<\/b>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><b>Barren Island<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is India\u2019s only active volcano.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><b>Narcondam Island<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is a dormant volcanic island.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Coastal Features<\/b>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The islands have narrow coastal plains, sandy beaches, and are fringed with coral reefs.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Tectonic Activity<\/b>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Located in a seismically active zone due to the interaction of the Indian and Burmese plates.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Island Separation<\/b>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The <\/span><b>Ten Degree Channel<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> divides the Andaman group from the Nicobar group.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><b>Andaman and Nicobar Islands Climate<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The Andaman and Nicobar Islands experience a tropical maritime climate, influenced by the surrounding Bay of Bengal. The weather remains warm, humid, and equable throughout the year, with no extreme winters or summers.<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Temperature<\/b>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The temperature generally ranges between <\/span><b>23\u00b0C to 30\u00b0C<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Seasonal variation is minimal due to the moderating effect of the sea.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Rainfall<\/b>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The islands receive <\/span><b>heavy rainfall (around 3000 mm annually)<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Rainfall is well distributed but peaks during the monsoon months.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Monsoon Influence<\/b>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Affected by both <\/span><b>Southwest Monsoon (May-September)<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and <\/span><b>Northeast Monsoon (October\u2013December)<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Prolonged rainy season compared to mainland India.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Humidity<\/b>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">High humidity levels, usually between <\/span><b>70% to 90%<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, prevail throughout the year.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Cyclonic Activity<\/b>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Occasionally affected by <\/span><b>cyclones and depressions<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> originating in the Bay of Bengal.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>No Distinct Winter Season<\/b>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Winters are mild and pleasant, without significant temperature drops.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Favorable for Dense Vegetation<\/b>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The warm and wet climate supports <\/span><b>tropical evergreen forests and rich biodiversity<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><b>Area, Sub-Groups, and Distribution of Nicobar Islands<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The Nicobar Islands form the southern part of the Andaman and Nicobar archipelago, spread over a length of about 262 km with a maximum width of 58 km and covering an area of nearly 1,653 sq km. These islands are strategically located close to Southeast Asia and are divided into distinct sub-groups based on their geographical distribution.<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li aria-level=\"1\"><b>Total Area and Extent<\/b><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"list-style-type: none;\">\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Spread over <\/span><b>262 km length<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and <\/span><b>58 km maximum width<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> with a total area of <\/span><b>1,653 sq km<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Three Major Sub-Groups<\/b>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Divided into <\/span><b>Northern, Central, and Southern groups<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> based on location and island clustering.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Northern Group<\/b>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Includes islands like <\/span><b>Car Nicobar and Battimalv<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, which are relatively more populated.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Central Group<\/b>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Consists of islands such as Chowra, Teressa, Katchal, Camorta, Nancowry, Trinket, and Tillangchong.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Southern Group<\/b>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Dominated by <\/span><b>Great Nicobar Island<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, along with Little Nicobar, Kondul, and other smaller islands.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Southernmost Point of India<\/b>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><b>Indira Point<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is located at the southern tip of Great Nicobar.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Proximity to Indonesia<\/b>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Great Nicobar lies just about <\/span><b>147 km from Sumatra (Indonesia)<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, highlighting its strategic importance.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Habitation<\/b>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Only about <\/span><b>12 islands are inhabited<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, mainly by indigenous tribes like Nicobarese and Shompen.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><b>Biodiversity of Andaman and Nicobar Islands<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The Andaman and Nicobar Islands, a group of 572 islands in the <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/current-affairs\/bay-of-bengal\/\" target=\"_blank\">Bay of Bengal<\/a><\/strong>, are recognized as a major biodiversity hotspot of India. More than 90% of the land area is covered with dense tropical rainforests, mangroves, and coastal ecosystems.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>Flora (Plant Diversity)<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The vegetation of these islands is dominated by dense tropical forests with multiple layers, ranging from coastal vegetation to inland evergreen forests.<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Forest Types<\/b>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">North Andaman is covered with <\/span><b>wet evergreen forests<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, while Middle Andaman has <\/span><b>moist deciduous forests<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The Nicobar Islands mainly have <\/span><b>evergreen forests and grasslands<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, showing variation in vegetation across regions.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Dominant Tree Species<\/b>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Forests include tall canopy trees like Dipterocarpaceae species forming dense layers.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Andaman Padauk is a valuable timber tree known for its strong reddish wood.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Dhoop tree produces aromatic resin, and Andaman Red Cedar is another important species.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Epiphytic Vegetation<\/b>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Southern islands show abundant growth of <\/span><b>epiphytes<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> such as orchids and ferns.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">These plants grow on other trees and thrive in humid conditions.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Mangrove Ecosystems<\/b>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Mangroves cover large coastal areas and protect the shoreline from erosion.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">They act as breeding and nursery grounds for marine organisms.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>High Endemism in Plants<\/b>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A large number of plant species are unique to the islands due to their isolation.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">These species show special adaptations to island conditions.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><b>Fauna (Animal Life)<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The islands support a wide variety of terrestrial and marine fauna with high levels of endemism.<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Mammals<\/b>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Endemic mammals include the Andaman Wild Pig, Nicobar Tree Shrew, and Narcondam Shrew.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Mammalian diversity is limited but unique compared to mainland India.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Bird Species<\/b>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The islands are home to rare birds like the Nicobar megapode, known for building nesting mounds.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><b>Narcondam hornbill<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is another important endemic species.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The region also supports many migratory birds.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Marine Biodiversity<\/b>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Rich marine life includes the dugong (sea cow and state animal) and Indo-Pacific humpback dolphin.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Coral reefs are highly diverse, with about <\/span><b>179 coral species<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, <\/span><b>1200+ fish species<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, and <\/span><b>1000+ molluscs<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Reptiles<\/b>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The islands are known for the <\/span><b>saltwater crocodile<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, especially in mangrove regions.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Various rare snakes, lizards, and geckos are also found.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>High Endemism in Animals<\/b>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Many animal species are found only in these islands and nowhere else in the world.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This makes conservation extremely important.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><b>Tribes of Andaman and Nicobar Islands<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are home to some of the oldest indigenous communities in the world, known for their distinct cultures, languages, and isolated lifestyles. These tribes are broadly divided into Andamanese and Nicobarese groups, with several classified as Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs).<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Great Andamanese Tribe (PVTG)<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> \u2013 One of the earliest inhabitants, now reduced in population and settled mainly in Strait Island.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Jarwa Tribe (PVTG)<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> \u2013 A nomadic hunting-gathering tribe living in parts of South and Middle Andaman, maintaining limited outside contact.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Onge Tribe (PVTG)<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> \u2013 A semi-nomadic tribe primarily residing in Little Andaman, dependent on forest and marine resources.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Sentinelese Tribe<\/b> <b>(PVTG)<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u2013 A highly isolated tribe that resists all external contact and lives on North Sentinel Island.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Nicobarese Tribe<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> \u2013 The most populous tribe, practicing agriculture and living in relatively developed settlements.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Shompen Tribe\u00a0 (PVTG)<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> \u2013 A reclusive tribe inhabiting the forests of Great Nicobar, with minimal interaction with outsiders.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><b>National Parks of Andaman and Nicobar Islands<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The Andaman and Nicobar Islands have a rich network of protected areas, including 9 National Parks, which play a crucial role in conserving tropical forests, coral reefs, and rare wildlife species.<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li aria-level=\"1\"><b>Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park<\/b><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"list-style-type: none;\">\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Famous for coral reefs, mangroves, and marine life like sea turtles and fishes.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Mount Harriet National Park<\/b>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Known for evergreen forests, butterflies, and scenic viewpoints near Port Blair.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Saddle Peak National Park<\/b>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Covers the highest peak and rich tropical forest biodiversity.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Rani Jhansi Marine National Park<\/b>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Protects coral reefs, seagrass beds, and diverse marine species.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Campbell Bay National Park<\/b>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Part of the Great Nicobar <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/current-affairs\/biosphere-reserve-in-india\/\" target=\"_blank\">Biosphere Reserve<\/a><\/strong> with dense forests and endemic fauna.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Galathea National Park<\/b>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Known for nesting grounds of leatherback turtles and tropical rainforests.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>North Button Island National Park<\/b>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A small marine park rich in coral reefs and underwater biodiversity.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Middle Button Island National Park<\/b>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Famous for clear waters, coral reefs, and marine fauna.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>South Button Island National Park<\/b>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Known for vibrant coral ecosystems and diving spots.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><b>Wildlife Sanctuaries of Andaman and Nicobar Islands<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The Andaman and Nicobar Islands have an extensive network of 100+ wildlife sanctuaries, making them one of the most ecologically protected regions in India. These sanctuaries conserve fragile island ecosystems, including tropical forests, mangroves, coral reefs, and rich marine biodiversity.<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Interview Island Wildlife Sanctuary: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Known for its forest ecosystem and population of feral elephants along with diverse birdlife.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>North Reef Island Wildlife Sanctuary: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Protects coral reefs, sea turtles, and rich marine biodiversity.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>South Sentinel Island Wildlife Sanctuary: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A remote sanctuary important for nesting sea turtles and undisturbed <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/upsc-exam\/ecosystem\/\" target=\"_blank\">ecosystems<\/a><\/strong>.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Ross and Smith Islands Wildlife Sanctuary: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Famous for twin islands connected by a sandbar and coastal biodiversity.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Narcondam Island Wildlife Sanctuary: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Habitat of the endemic Narcondam hornbill and unique volcanic ecosystem.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><b>Farming and Agricultural Practices in Andaman and Nicobar Islands<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The <\/span><b>Andaman and Nicobar Islands<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> have a <\/span><b>unique agricultural system<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> shaped by <\/span><b>tropical climate<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, <\/span><b>island geography<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, and <\/span><b>ecological sensitivity<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. Agriculture is largely <\/span><b>small-scale, sustainable, and subsistence-oriented<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, focusing on <\/span><b>local food security<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> rather than large-scale commercialization.<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Agriculture is mainly <\/span><b>subsistence farming<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, where production is done for <\/span><b>self-consumption<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, with limited market surplus due to <\/span><b>isolation and transport constraints<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The islands follow <\/span><b>mixed cropping and multi-cropping systems<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, ensuring <\/span><b>efficient land use<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, <\/span><b>risk reduction<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, and <\/span><b>food diversity<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Rice (paddy)<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is the <\/span><b>staple food crop<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, cultivated in <\/span><b>low-lying monsoon-fed fields<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, while <\/span><b>pulses and vegetables<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> are grown on a smaller scale.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Plantation agriculture<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> dominates, with <\/span><b>coconut<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> as the most important <\/span><b>cash crop<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, supported by <\/span><b>arecanut plantations<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> in coastal regions.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cultivation of <\/span><b>spices<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> such as <\/span><b>black pepper, clove, nutmeg, and cinnamon<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> adds <\/span><b>commercial value<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and supports <\/span><b>small-scale agro-economy<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Shifting cultivation (Jhum farming)<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is practiced in <\/span><b>tribal areas of Nicobar<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, involving <\/span><b>temporary land clearing<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and <\/span><b>natural regeneration cycles<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Organic farming practices<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> are encouraged due to the <\/span><b>fragile ecosystem<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, with minimal use of <\/span><b>chemical fertilizers and pesticides<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Integrated farming systems<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> combine <\/span><b>crop cultivation, livestock rearing, and fisheries<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, ensuring <\/span><b>income diversification<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and <\/span><b>resource efficiency<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Horticulture<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is significant, with fruits like <\/span><b>banana, pineapple, papaya, and mango<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> grown due to <\/span><b>favorable humid climate<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Agriculture faces challenges like <\/span><b>limited cultivable land<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, <\/span><b>soil erosion<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, and <\/span><b>coastal salinity<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, which restrict productivity.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Frequent <\/span><b>cyclones, heavy rainfall, and high humidity<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> create <\/span><b>climatic risks<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, affecting crop stability and yields.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><b>About Great Nicobar Project<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The \u20b981,000-crore Great Nicobar Project is a major strategic infrastructure initiative on Great Nicobar Island, led by <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/upsc-exam\/niti-aayog\/\" target=\"_blank\"><b>NITI Aayog <\/b><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">and <\/span><b>Andaman and Nicobar Islands Integrated Development Corporation (ANIIDCO)<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, aimed at transforming the island into a global transshipment and connectivity hub.<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Focuses on developing an <\/span><b>International Container Transshipment Terminal (ICTT) <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">to position India as a key player in global maritime trade.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Includes a <\/span><b>Greenfield International Airport<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> at <\/span><b>Galathea Bay<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> to improve civilian and strategic connectivity.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Plans for a <\/span><b>modern township<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and supporting infrastructure for economic growth.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Enhances <\/span><b>strategic importance<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> due to proximity to major sea routes like the Malacca Strait.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Located within the <\/span><b>Great Nicobar Biosphere Reserve<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, raising ecological concerns.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">May impact biodiversity and indigenous communities such as the <\/span><b>Shompen Tribe<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Emphasizes <\/span><b>balanced development with environmental safeguards and sustainability measures<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Andaman and Nicobar Islands cover geography, climate, biodiversity, tribes, parks and economy, highlighting strategic location and ecological significance.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":25,"featured_media":101536,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[786],"tags":[7307,4935,5102],"class_list":{"0":"post-101549","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-general-studies","8":"tag-andaman-and-nicobar-islands","9":"tag-geography","10":"tag-geography-notes","11":"no-featured-image-padding"},"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/current-affairs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/101549","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/current-affairs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/current-affairs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/current-affairs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/25"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/current-affairs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=101549"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/current-affairs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/101549\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":101550,"href":"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/current-affairs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/101549\/revisions\/101550"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/current-affairs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/101536"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/current-affairs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=101549"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/current-affairs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=101549"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/current-affairs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=101549"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}