Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
India possesses a diverse portfolio of island territories – the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, and the Lakshadweep Islands – each with unique geographical, ecological, and socio-economic characteristics. These islands, while representing a small fraction of India’s landmass, hold significant strategic importance and possess immense potential for sustainable development. The integrated development of these territories is crucial not only for improving the quality of life for their inhabitants but also for bolstering India’s maritime security and promoting eco-tourism. Recent initiatives like the ‘Island Development Agency’ (IDA) demonstrate the government’s commitment to holistic island development, but a comprehensive and nuanced approach is still required.
Challenges to Integrated Island Development
Island territories face a unique set of challenges that hinder their integrated development:
- Geographical Constraints: Limited land area, remoteness, and susceptibility to natural disasters (cyclones, tsunamis).
- Infrastructural Deficiencies: Poor connectivity (air, sea), inadequate power supply, limited healthcare facilities, and lack of quality education.
- Economic Vulnerability: Dependence on limited economic activities (tourism, fisheries), high transportation costs, and limited scope for industrialization.
- Ecological Fragility: Sensitive ecosystems, coral reef degradation, and threats to biodiversity.
- Socio-Cultural Issues: Preservation of tribal cultures (Andaman & Nicobar Islands) and ensuring equitable development for all communities.
Strategies for Integrated Development
1. Economic Development
Focusing on sustainable economic activities is paramount.
- Tourism: Promoting eco-tourism and responsible tourism practices. Developing high-end, low-impact tourism infrastructure. The Andaman & Nicobar Islands have seen growth in this sector, but need to balance it with environmental protection.
- Fisheries: Modernizing fishing techniques, establishing processing units, and promoting aquaculture. Lakshadweep’s economy heavily relies on fisheries, and sustainable practices are vital.
- Seaweed Cultivation: Harnessing the potential of seaweed cultivation for various industries (pharmaceuticals, food processing).
- Blue Economy: Developing a sustainable blue economy based on ocean resources, including renewable energy (tidal, wave), shipping, and marine biotechnology.
2. Infrastructure Development
Improving connectivity and basic infrastructure is crucial.
- Connectivity: Expanding air and sea connectivity through increased flight frequencies, improved port facilities, and the development of jetties. The Diglipur Airport in Andaman & Nicobar Islands is a key infrastructure project.
- Power Generation: Investing in renewable energy sources (solar, wind, tidal) to reduce dependence on fossil fuels.
- Digital Infrastructure: Improving internet connectivity and digital literacy to facilitate e-governance, education, and healthcare.
- Housing: Providing affordable and sustainable housing for the island communities.
3. Social Development
Focusing on human capital development and social inclusion.
- Education: Improving the quality of education by providing qualified teachers, modern infrastructure, and scholarships for higher education.
- Healthcare: Strengthening healthcare facilities, providing access to specialized medical care, and promoting preventive healthcare.
- Skill Development: Providing vocational training and skill development programs to enhance employability.
- Preservation of Tribal Cultures: Protecting the unique cultures and traditions of tribal communities in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands.
4. Ecological Conservation
Protecting the fragile island ecosystems is essential for long-term sustainability.
- Coral Reef Conservation: Implementing measures to protect and restore coral reefs, including reducing pollution, controlling destructive fishing practices, and promoting coral transplantation.
- Marine Protected Areas: Establishing marine protected areas to conserve biodiversity and regulate human activities.
- Waste Management: Implementing effective waste management systems to reduce pollution and protect the environment.
- Sustainable Forestry: Promoting sustainable forestry practices to conserve forests and prevent deforestation.
Role of Government Initiatives
The Government of India has launched several initiatives to promote the integrated development of island territories:
- Island Development Agency (IDA): Established in 2017 to oversee the holistic development of islands.
- NITI Aayog’s Island Development Framework: Provides a comprehensive framework for sustainable island development.
- Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY): Skill development scheme extended to island territories.
- National Bamboo Mission: Promoting bamboo cultivation in the islands for economic and ecological benefits.
| Island Territory | Key Development Focus | Specific Initiatives |
|---|---|---|
| Andaman & Nicobar Islands | Tourism, Strategic Infrastructure, Tribal Welfare | Development of Great Nicobar Island as a mega project, expansion of Diglipur Airport, promotion of eco-tourism. |
| Lakshadweep Islands | Sustainable Fisheries, Eco-Tourism, Water Security | Development of fisheries infrastructure, promotion of responsible tourism, rainwater harvesting projects. |
Conclusion
The integrated development of India’s island territories requires a holistic and sustainable approach that addresses the unique challenges and leverages the inherent opportunities. Prioritizing ecological conservation alongside economic development, investing in robust infrastructure, and empowering local communities are crucial for achieving long-term prosperity. A coordinated effort involving the central government, island administrations, and local stakeholders is essential to unlock the full potential of these strategically important and ecologically sensitive regions. Future strategies should focus on climate change adaptation and resilience building, given the vulnerability of these islands to rising sea levels and extreme weather events.
Answer Length
This is a comprehensive model answer for learning purposes and may exceed the word limit. In the exam, always adhere to the prescribed word count.