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India is home to a variety of islands scattered along its vast coastline, both in the Arabian Sea and the Bay of Bengal. These islands hold great significance, not only for their natural beauty and biodiversity but also for their strategic, economic, and cultural importance. The islands of India can be broadly categorized into two main groups: the Andaman and Nicobar Islands in the Bay of Bengal and the Lakshadweep Islands in the Arabian Sea. Apart from these two groups, there are smaller islands along India’s mainland coastline. Understanding these islands is crucial for UPSC aspirants studying geography, environment, and national security.
The Andaman and Nicobar Islands form one of the most important island groups in India. Located in the Bay of Bengal, they consist of around 572 islands, of which about 37 are inhabited.
The Andaman Islands are closer to mainland India and stretch from north to south for over 800 km. The largest island is North Andaman, followed by Middle Andaman and South Andaman.
Capital: Port Blair (situated on South Andaman Island)
Strategic Importance:
The Andaman Islands lie near the Ten Degree Channel that separates the Andaman group from the Nicobar group and the Malacca Strait, one of the busiest maritime routes in the world. This location gives them immense strategic importance in India’s maritime security.
Biodiversity:
The islands are home to rich biodiversity, with tropical rainforests and coral reefs. Species such as the Andaman wild pig, saltwater crocodile, and dugong are found here. The region also has a large number of bird species, making it a birdwatcher’s paradise.
Tribes:
Indigenous tribes such as the Great Andamanese, Onge, Jarwa, and the Sentinelese inhabit the islands. These tribes have had minimal contact with the outside world, particularly the Sentinelese, who inhabit North Sentinel Island.
Tourism:
The Andaman Islands are a popular tourist destination. Havelock Island, known for its beautiful beaches like Radhanagar Beach, is particularly famous for water sports and scuba diving.
The Nicobar Islands are located south of the Andaman Islands and are separated from them by the Ten Degree Channel.
Capital: Car Nicobar (located in the northern part of the Nicobar Islands)
Strategic Importance:
The southernmost tip of India, Indira Point, is located in the Nicobar Islands. This region is close to important international sea routes, giving it significant strategic importance for India’s defense and maritime trade.
Biodiversity:
The Nicobar Islands are recognized as a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve due to their unique biodiversity. The islands have dense tropical forests and host species such as the Nicobar pigeon, coconut crab, and various endemic plants and animals.
Tribes:
The Nicobarese and Shompen tribes inhabit the Nicobar Islands. The Shompen are a semi-nomadic tribe living in the interior forests of the Great Nicobar Island.
The Lakshadweep Islands are a group of 36 coral islands located in the Arabian Sea, around 200-400 km off the southwest coast of India. They are the only coral islands in India and are known for their stunning beaches and lagoons.
Capital: Kavaratti
Geography:
These islands are characterized by low-lying coral atolls, reefs, and lagoons. The islands are spread over an area of 32 square kilometers, with only about 10 islands being inhabited.
Biodiversity:
The coral reefs and lagoons around Lakshadweep support rich marine biodiversity, including species such as corals, sea turtles, reef fish, and mollusks. The region is also known for its coconut palms, which are integral to the local economy.
Economy:
The main economic activities in Lakshadweep include fishing, coconut cultivation, and tourism. The islands have become popular among tourists, especially for activities like snorkeling, scuba diving, and deep-sea fishing. The Bangaram and Agatti islands are especially known for their tourist resorts.
Challenges:
Lakshadweep faces the threat of climate change and rising sea levels. Due to their low-lying nature, these islands are vulnerable to submersion in the coming decades if global sea levels continue to rise.
Cultural Significance:
The inhabitants of Lakshadweep are predominantly Muslims and have a distinct cultural identity. The local language spoken is Malayalam, and the people have a deep connection to the sea and their surrounding environment.
Apart from the Andaman, Nicobar, and Lakshadweep groups, India also has several smaller islands along its mainland coast. These islands are important for their economic and strategic roles.
India’s islands, particularly those in the Andaman & Nicobar and Lakshadweep groups, hold great strategic importance. They are located close to important international maritime trade routes and serve as outposts for surveillance, defense, and maritime security.
Naval Bases:
The Indian Navy operates several bases and outposts in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, such as INS Jarawa and INS Baaz, which help secure the eastern seaboard and monitor the Malacca Strait.
Airstrips and Ports:
Both the Andaman & Nicobar and Lakshadweep islands have airstrips and ports that allow for better connectivity and military operations. These islands are vital for protecting India’s maritime interests, including the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).
The islands of India are of immense geographical, ecological, cultural, and strategic importance. While the Andaman and Nicobar Islands are known for their biodiversity and strategic military significance, the Lakshadweep Islands are famous for their coral reefs and marine life. Coastal islands such as Majuli and Sriharikota play key roles in India’s cultural and scientific landscape.
For UPSC aspirants, understanding the major islands of India is crucial for questions related to physical geography, biodiversity, and national security. These islands not only contribute to India’s natural wealth but also play a key role in its defense, trade, and cultural identity.
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