Strategic significance of Andaman and Nicobar Islands

Why in news?

The new thrust on developing strategic infrastructure, both civilian and military, on the Andaman and Nicobar Islands has been long awaited.

What is the strategic importance of Andaman and Nicobar Islands?

• Geopolitical location- Situated at the mouth of the Malacca Strait, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands offer a strategic vantage point for monitoring and controlling maritime traffic passing through one of the world's busiest waterways.

• Strategic chokepoints- The islands are positioned near several strategic chokepoints, including the Malacca, Sunda, Lombok, and Ombai-Wetar straits. Control over these chokepoints is essential for maritime security and trade flows in the region.
• Significance of Maritime boundary- The islands share maritime boundary with neighbouring countries like Myanmar, Thailand, Indonesia, and Bangladesh, giving India significant influence over maritime activities in these regions under UNCLOS.
• Military importance- The development of military infrastructure on the islands enhances India's ability to project power and deter potential threats from the eastern direction, particularly from China.

Andaman and Nicobar Command (ANC), established as a tri-services command in 2001, plays a crucial role in safeguarding India's maritime interests.

• Economic potential- The islands offer economic opportunities, including maritime trade, tourism, and fisheries. Developing infrastructure to support these sectors can contribute to islands' economic growth and reduce their dependence on mainland India for essential supplies.

Why the pace of developing strategic infrastructure in the islands has have been slow?

• Slow realisation- The unprecedented expansion of China’s navy has prompted the island’s strategic criticality for India’s security.
• Infrastructure deficit- The distance from the mainland and the inherent difficulties in developing infrastructure have been cited as reasons for delays in various projects.
• Complex procedures- Obtaining environmental clearances, even for small projects, has been a complex process.
• Land acquisition- Regulations related to forest conservation and the protection of native tribes have further complicated land acquisition issues.
• Multi-dimensional project- Developing the islands and their strategic infrastructure involves coordination across multiple ministries, departments, and agencies. This multi-dimensional effort presents significant challenges.
• Political impact - Seeking immediate political gains takes precedence over long term strategic vision.

What should strategic infrastructure development in these islands focus on?

• Surveillance- Establishing robust surveillance systems to monitor the vast maritime area stretching 420 nautical miles from north to south is essential to deter potential threats.
• Maritime infrastructure- Construction of ports and fuel storages in both the northern and southern groups of the islands is crucial for the operational turnaround of ships without returning to Port Blair.
• Military infrastructure- Building military bases, airfields, and naval facilities to enhance defence capabilities and ensure a rapid response to security challenges.
• Enhance connectivity- Improving transportation infrastructure, including airports, ports, roads, and ferry services, to facilitate the movement of people and goods within the islands and with the mainland.
• Economic development- Promoting economic activities such as tourism, fisheries, and maritime trade through the development of ports, logistics facilities, and tourist amenities.
• Sustainable development- Balancing development with environmental conservation by obtaining necessary clearances and implementing eco-friendly practices.
• Great Nicobar Project- Accelerating the development of the Galathea Bay transhipment port on Great Nicobar Island is vital. Maritime services such as repair and logistics for both international and Indian shipping need to be established.
• Incentivise habitation- Consideration should be given to the planned habitation of uninhabited islands by providing incentives like free or subsidized land to encourage eco-friendly entrepreneurial activities.
• International cooperation- Leveraging international partnerships, such as the QUAD and the Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative (IPOI), to support development efforts and enhance regional stability.

References

1. Indian Express- Strategic importance of Andaman and Nicobar
2. PIB- Great Nicobar Project