Examine the geostrategic significance of Indian islands.

Military Significance

The Andaman and Nicobar Islands (ANI) are strategically positioned to oversee crucial SLOCs like the Malacca Strait, through which a significant portion of global trade passes.

• Naval Base INS Baaz: Located on Sabang, the naval base provides a crucial listening post and enhances India’s ability to monitor naval activity in the region.
• Tri-Service Command: The establishment of a Tri-Service Command at Port Blair in 2019 demonstrates the importance placed on the islands for integrated military operations.
• Surveillance Capabilities: The islands serve as a platform for enhanced surveillance of the Indian Ocean Region (IOR), including monitoring Chinese naval presence.
• Rapid Response Force: They act as a staging point for rapid deployment of forces in response to crises in Southeast Asia and the wider Indo-Pacific.

Economic Significance

Both the Andaman & Nicobar and Lakshadweep islands possess significant economic potential, though currently largely untapped.

• Tourism: Lakshadweep, with its pristine coral reefs and beaches, has immense potential for sustainable tourism. The government is promoting eco-tourism initiatives.
• Fisheries: Both island groups support a thriving fishing industry, providing livelihoods for local communities. Sustainable fishing practices are crucial.
• Seaweed Cultivation: Lakshadweep is ideal for seaweed cultivation, a growing industry with applications in pharmaceuticals, food, and cosmetics.
• Transshipment Hub: The ANI islands, particularly the proposed development of the Great Nicobar Project, aim to establish a transshipment hub, capitalizing on their strategic location along major shipping routes.
• Resource Exploration: ANI islands have potential for mineral resource exploration, including limestone and other construction materials.

Diplomatic Significance

Indian islands play a crucial role in India’s ‘Neighborhood First’ policy and its broader engagement with the Indo-Pacific region.

• Act East Policy: The ANI islands serve as a gateway to Southeast Asia, facilitating India’s engagement with ASEAN countries.
• Indo-Pacific Strategy: They are integral to India’s vision of a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific, contributing to regional stability.
• Bilateral Relations: India has been strengthening ties with countries in the region, including Indonesia, Thailand, and Singapore, through maritime cooperation and joint exercises.
• Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR): The islands can serve as a base for providing HADR to neighboring countries in times of crisis.

Challenges and Concerns

Despite their strategic importance, Indian islands face several challenges:

• Infrastructure Deficiencies: Limited infrastructure, including connectivity, power supply, and healthcare, hinders development.
• Environmental Vulnerability: Coral reefs are vulnerable to climate change, rising sea levels, and pollution.
• Demographic Concerns: Maintaining a sustainable population balance and addressing the needs of indigenous communities is crucial.
• Security Threats: Potential threats from piracy, illegal fishing, and maritime terrorism require constant vigilance.

Island Group	Key Features	Strategic Importance
Andaman & Nicobar Islands	Larger islands, volcanic origin, strategically located near Malacca Strait	Military base, SLOC monitoring, gateway to Southeast Asia
Lakshadweep Islands	Coral atolls, smaller islands, located in the Arabian Sea	Tourism potential, fisheries, surveillance of Arabian Sea