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Balancing Development and Ecology
‘Development’ at the Cost of Nicobar Islands
Context: The recent passing of Shri ‘Vanajeevi’ Ramaiah, renowned tree crusader and Padma Shri awardee, has rekindled the debate around India’s environmental priorities.
About Ramaiah
- Ramaiah, who dedicated his life to planting over one crore trees in Telangana, championed the cause of living harmoniously with nature.
- However, ongoing land disputes—such as the one between the Telangana State government and the University of Hyderabad over the Kancha Gachibowli forest area—would likely have disheartened him.
Andaman and Nicobar Islands (ANI)
The Andaman and Nicobar Islands (ANI) are a group of 572 islands in the Bay of Bengal, known for their rich biodiversity, unique ecosystems, and ecological significance. Their environmental importance includes:
- Biodiversity Hotspot: The islands are part of the Indo-Burma Biodiversity Hotspot, hosting a wide variety of endemic and endangered species. Home to over 2,200 plant species, 270+ bird species, and rare animals like the Andaman wild pig, Nicobar megapode, and dugong (sea cow). The Narcondam hornbill is found only on Narcondam Island.
- Coral Reefs & Marine Life: ANI has some of the healthiest coral reefs in India, with over 560 coral species (including brain corals and staghorn corals). Rich marine biodiversity, including sea turtles (leatherback, hawksbill), dolphins, and saltwater crocodiles. Acts as a breeding ground for marine species, supporting fisheries.
- Tropical Rainforests & Mangroves: 86% of the islands are covered by dense tropical rainforests, crucial for carbon sequestration. Mangrove ecosystems protect coastlines from erosion, tsunamis, and cyclones. Acts as a natural barrier against climate change impacts.
- Indigenous Tribes & Cultural Heritage: Home to indigenous tribes like the Sentinelese, Jarawa, Onge, and Shompen, who live in harmony with nature. Their traditional knowledge helps in sustainable resource management.
- Strategic Carbon Sink: The forests and coastal ecosystems absorb large amounts of CO₂, helping mitigate climate change.
- Ecotourism & Research: A key destination for eco-tourism, promoting conservation awareness. Important for scientific research on marine biology, climate resilience, and endemic species.
Protected Areas: Protected areas like Mahatma Gandhi Marine National
Park, Campbell Bay National Park, and Galathea National Park help conserve biodiversity.
Environment vs Development
- Kancha Gachibowli forest: In the context of Kancha Gachibowli forest, The University of Hyderabad seeks to conserve the Kancha Gachibowli land as a green, biodiverse sanctuary home to over 700 plant species, 200 bird varieties, and several mammals.
- In contrast, the Telangana government aims to repurpose the land for the development of technology parks. This conflict has escalated to the Supreme Court, whose verdict is awaited.
- Across India, forested and tribal lands are increasingly being earmarked for highways, pharmaceutical hubs, airports, and smart cities.
- Great Nicobar Betrayal: A parallel situation is unfolding in the remote Nicobar Islands, as highlighted in Professor Pankaj Sekhsaria’s book, The Great Nicobar Betrayal.
- A long-time researcher of the region, Sekhsaria examines how the Central government’s ambitious development plan—featuring a transshipment hub at Galathea Bay, an international airport, a power plant, and a greenfield township—threatens the island’s fragile ecosystem.
- These projects aim to expand the population from 8,000 to 3.5 lakh by bringing in settlers from mainland India.
- However, the ecological and social costs are staggering.
- The Great Nicobar Island is a biodiversity hotspot with over 2,000 faunal and 811 floral species.
