19 Feb 2026·Source: The Hindu

4 min

Environment & EcologySocial IssuesEDITORIAL

Great Nicobar Project faces environmental concerns and tribal rights issues

NGT order rubber-stamps government appraisal without examining independent concerns on Nicobar project.

Editorial Analysis

The author believes that while the National Green Tribunal (NGT) has approved environmental safeguards for the Great Nicobar Project, significant concerns remain regarding its impact on native populations, biodiversity, and community rights. The author argues that the project's appraisal process lacks fairness and independent examination of these concerns, which bodes ill for the present.

Main Arguments:

The NGT's ruling essentially rubber-stamps the government's appraisal process without independently examining concerns raised by scientists and environmental groups.
The project could lead to significant harm to the region's biodiversity due to the felling of nearly nine lakh trees across 130 sq.km, disturbance to turtle nesting grounds, and assault on corals.
The community rights of the local Shompen and Nicobarese tribes may not be fully settled, with allegations of tribal council members being coerced into signing 'surrender certificates'.
Historical precedents, such as the phosphate mining on Nauru and Banaba, demonstrate that economic logic alone cannot dictate actions in remote territories, highlighting the potential for devastating consequences.

Counter Arguments:

The NGT order suggests that all environmental safeguards are in place and that the project's 'strategic utility' justifies limited transparency.
Proponents of the project believe that the potential impact on resident native populations has been duly accounted for.

Conclusion

Whether the Great Nicobar Project is a 'net good' can only be judged by future generations, but the lack of a fair appraisal process for independent concerns bodes ill for the present.

Policy Implications

The author implies the need for a more transparent and independent appraisal process for large-scale projects, particularly those with significant environmental and social impacts. There is a need to ensure the full settlement of community rights for local tribes under the requirements of the Forest Rights Act and to avoid coercion in obtaining consent for land diversion.

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has ruled that environmental safeguards are in place for the Great Nicobar Project. Concerns persist regarding the project's impact on native populations, biodiversity loss due to tree-felling, disturbance to turtle nesting grounds, and the settlement of community rights for local tribes.

Members of the Tribal Council have allegedly been coerced into signing "surrender certificates." Independent scientists and environmental groups have raised concerns about the felling of nearly nine lakh trees across 130 sq.km, which would significantly harm the region's biodiversity. The NGT order essentially approves the government's appraisal process without independently examining the concerns raised.

Key Facts

The Great Nicobar Project includes a trans-shipment port, an international airport, township development, and a 450 MVA gas and solar-based power plant.

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has ruled that all environmental safeguards are in place for the Great Nicobar Project.

Concerns persist regarding the project's impact on native populations, biodiversity loss due to tree-felling, disturbance to turtle nesting grounds, and the settlement of community rights for local tribes.

Members of the Tribal Council have allegedly been coerced into signing 'surrender certificates'.

UPSC Exam Angles

GS Paper III: Environment and Ecology, Biodiversity Conservation

GS Paper V: Tribal Rights, Environmental Impact Assessment

Potential for questions on environmental laws, tribal rights, and sustainable development

In Simple Words

The Great Nicobar Project is a massive development plan for Great Nicobar Island. It includes a port, airport, and power plant. There are worries that this project could harm the environment and the tribes living there, even though officials say they're protecting the area.

India Angle

In India, many development projects affect tribal lands and forests. This project raises concerns about balancing economic progress with the rights and well-being of indigenous communities and environmental protection.

For Instance

Think of it like building a new highway through a forest. It might improve travel, but it could also displace animals and disrupt the lives of people who depend on the forest.

It's important because it highlights the ongoing struggle between development and protecting the environment and the rights of tribal communities. It touches on how India balances these competing interests.

Development shouldn't come at the cost of the environment and tribal rights.

Visual Insights

Great Nicobar Island: Project Location

Map showing the location of Great Nicobar Island and its strategic importance.

Loading interactive map...

📍Great Nicobar Island

Key Statistics of the Great Nicobar Project

Dashboard highlighting key statistics related to the Great Nicobar Project.

Trees to be felled: 9 Lakh
Area affected by tree felling: 130 sq.km

More Information

Background

The Great Nicobar Island is known for its rich biodiversity and unique ecosystem. It is home to several endemic species and is a crucial nesting site for sea turtles. The island's indigenous communities, including the Shompen and Nicobarese tribes, have a deep connection to the land and its resources. Their traditional rights and cultural heritage are protected under the Indian Constitution and various environmental laws. Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs) are crucial for projects like the Great Nicobar Project. The EIA process aims to identify, predict, and evaluate the environmental impacts of a proposed project. It also suggests mitigation measures to minimize adverse effects. The National Green Tribunal (NGT) plays a vital role in environmental governance by hearing appeals related to environmental clearances and ensuring compliance with environmental laws. The Forest Conservation Act, 1980, regulates the diversion of forest land for non-forest purposes. Any project requiring the felling of trees or the use of forest land must obtain prior clearance from the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC). This clearance process involves assessing the project's impact on biodiversity, wildlife, and the environment.

Latest Developments

In recent years, there has been increasing focus on balancing development with environmental protection. The government has emphasized sustainable development and the need to minimize the environmental impact of infrastructure projects. Committees have been formed to review environmental regulations and streamline the clearance process. The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) has been working on revising the EIA notification to make it more transparent and efficient. The proposed changes have faced criticism from environmental groups who fear that they may weaken environmental safeguards. The Supreme Court has also intervened in several cases involving environmental clearances, emphasizing the need for a balanced approach. Looking ahead, the focus is likely to be on strengthening environmental monitoring and enforcement mechanisms. There is also a growing emphasis on involving local communities in the decision-making process for development projects. The success of projects like the Great Nicobar Project will depend on how well environmental concerns and tribal rights are addressed.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the key components of the Great Nicobar Project that are important for the UPSC Prelims exam?

The Great Nicobar Project includes the development of a trans-shipment port, an international airport, a township, and a 450 MVA gas and solar-based power plant. Remember these components as they can be directly asked in the exam.

Exam Tip

Focus on remembering the different infrastructure components of the project for potential matching-type questions in Prelims.

2. What are the major environmental concerns associated with the Great Nicobar Project?

The major environmental concerns include biodiversity loss due to the felling of approximately nine lakh trees across 130 sq.km, disturbance to turtle nesting grounds, and potential impacts on the native populations and their community rights. The project could significantly harm the region's unique ecosystem.

Exam Tip

Note the number of trees to be felled (9 lakh) and the area (130 sq. km) as these figures can be used in prelims questions.

3. What are the potential impacts on the indigenous communities of Great Nicobar Island due to this project?

The project raises concerns about the settlement of community rights for local tribes and allegations of coercion of Tribal Council members into signing 'surrender certificates'. This can lead to displacement, loss of traditional livelihoods, and cultural disruption for the Shompen and Nicobarese tribes.

Exam Tip

Remember the names of the tribes (Shompen and Nicobarese) as UPSC often asks about vulnerable tribal groups and their locations.

4. Why is the Great Nicobar Project in the news recently?

The Great Nicobar Project is in the news because the National Green Tribunal (NGT) has ruled that environmental safeguards are in place for the project. However, concerns persist regarding its environmental and social impacts, leading to ongoing debate and scrutiny.

Exam Tip

Be aware of the role of NGT in environmental clearances and its recent ruling on this project.

5. What is the role of the National Green Tribunal (NGT) in the Great Nicobar Project?

The NGT has ruled that environmental safeguards are in place for the Great Nicobar Project. However, the NGT order has been criticized for essentially approving the government's appraisal process without independently examining the concerns raised by independent scientists and environmental groups.

Exam Tip

Understand the function of NGT as a statutory body for environmental dispute resolution.

6. What are the pros and cons of the Great Nicobar Project?

Pros include economic development through a trans-shipment port and airport, potentially boosting trade and connectivity. Cons involve significant environmental damage, displacement of indigenous communities, and loss of biodiversity. Balancing these aspects is crucial for sustainable development.

Exam Tip

When answering such questions in the interview, present a balanced view, acknowledging both the developmental needs and environmental concerns.

7. What is the significance of Great Nicobar Island from a biodiversity perspective?

Great Nicobar Island is known for its rich biodiversity and unique ecosystem. It is home to several endemic species and is a crucial nesting site for sea turtles. The island's biodiversity is highly vulnerable to habitat destruction.

Exam Tip

Remember that Great Nicobar Island is a biodiversity hotspot and home to endemic species.

8. What are the recent developments regarding environmental regulations and clearances for infrastructure projects in India?

Exam Tip

Keep track of the role of MoEFCC in environmental clearances and any recent changes in regulations.

9. How does the Great Nicobar Project relate to the concept of Sustainable Development?

The Great Nicobar Project highlights the challenges of balancing economic development with environmental sustainability and social justice. Sustainable development requires minimizing environmental impact, protecting indigenous rights, and ensuring equitable distribution of benefits. The project's success hinges on adhering to these principles.

Exam Tip

Understand the core principles of sustainable development and how they apply to infrastructure projects like this.

10. What reforms are needed to ensure environmental protection and tribal rights in projects like the Great Nicobar Project?

Reforms needed include strengthening environmental impact assessments, ensuring free, prior, and informed consent of tribal communities, and establishing independent monitoring mechanisms. Greater transparency and public participation in decision-making are also crucial.

Exam Tip

When answering such questions in the interview, suggest practical and implementable solutions.

Practice Questions (MCQs)

1. Consider the following statements regarding the Great Nicobar Project: 1. The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has independently examined the environmental concerns raised regarding the project. 2. The project involves the felling of approximately nine lakh trees across 130 sq.km. 3. Concerns have been raised about the settlement of community rights for local tribes. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A.1 and 2 only
B.2 and 3 only
C.1 and 3 only
D.1, 2 and 3

Show Answer

Answer: B

Statement 1 is INCORRECT: The NGT order essentially approves the government's appraisal process without independently examining the concerns raised. Statement 2 is CORRECT: Independent scientists and environmental groups have raised concerns about the felling of nearly nine lakh trees across 130 sq.km. Statement 3 is CORRECT: Concerns persist regarding the project's impact on native populations and the settlement of community rights for local tribes.