The Great Nicobar Debate
Development, Strategy and Ecological Concerns Sri Vijaya Puram | May 30, 2026 A remote island. A mega infrastructure project worth over ₹70,000 crore. A location close to one of the world’s busiest maritime trade routes. And a debate that continues to intensify across strategic, environmental and public circles. Great Nicobar , once known primarily for its dense rainforests, biodiversity and indigenous communities, is now emerging at the centre of one of India’s most ambitious development visions. The proposed Great Nicobar Project includes a transshipment port, international airport, power infrastructure, township development and connectivity expansion aimed at transforming the island into a major maritime and logistics hub in the Indian Ocean region . Supporters of the project describe it as a strategic opportunity for India. They argue that the project could strengthen India’s maritime presence near the Malacca Strait , reduce dependence on foreign transshipment hubs such as S...