Andaman and Nicobar Islands Lieutenant Governor Dinesh Sharma has outlined a comprehensive plan aimed at fostering inclusive and sustainable development within the Union territory. This presentation took place during a high-level meeting of the NITI Aayog in New Delhi, as reported by the Press Trust of India on Thursday. The roadmap encompasses various sectors including connectivity, infrastructure, water supply, healthcare, renewable energy, tourism, fisheries, agriculture, and employment opportunities.

Sharma’s proposal emphasised the need for flexibility in the regulations governing central schemes, along with a call for prompt decisions regarding pending proposals. The meeting, chaired by NITI Aayog Vice Chairman Ashok Kumar Lahiri, included participation from several key figures, such as NITI Aayog member R Subrahmanyam, CEO Anurag Jain, and Chief Secretary of Andaman and Nicobar Islands Gyanesh Bharti, alongside senior officials from various central ministries.

Strategic Importance and Development Needs

During the meeting, Sharma underscored the strategic significance of the islands in the Indo-Pacific region, advocating for a development strategy specifically designed to address their unique challenges. He pointed out the geographical difficulties posed by 31 inhabited islands that are scattered over an area of 8,249 square kilometres. These challenges necessitate a tailored approach to development that considers the islands’ specific needs and circumstances.

One of the primary concerns raised was the high cost associated with transporting construction materials and essential goods from the mainland. Sharma reiterated the importance of adjusting central scheme guidelines to accommodate these logistical challenges. The meeting also focused on proposed development projects in Great Nicobar, which are crucial for enhancing the region’s infrastructure.

Connectivity issues were a central topic, particularly regarding the limited number of flights and the high airfares that residents face. Sharma called for expedited upgrades to National Highway 4, the construction of the Middle Strait Bridge, and the reconstruction of 13 jetties under the Sagarmala 2.0 initiative. Additionally, he advocated for improved cargo vessel services to facilitate better transport links.

Infrastructure and Economic Development Initiatives

The meeting reviewed various initiatives aimed at improving water supply across 265 villages, replacing outdated pipelines, and enhancing healthcare infrastructure. Plans to expand MRI facilities at the Andaman and Nicobar Islands Institute of Medical Sciences (ANIIMS) were also discussed, alongside strategies to promote renewable energy sources.

Further discussions included measures to stimulate the local economy through initiatives such as deep-sea tuna fishing, local employment generation, and tourism development at key locations including Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Island, Viper Island, and Swaraj Dweep. These initiatives are expected to create new opportunities and enhance the overall economic landscape of the islands.

Other significant topics addressed during the meeting included advancements in agriculture, the establishment of cold storage facilities, farm mechanisation, and the status of pending rural road projects under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY-IV). In conclusion, Sharma emphasised the necessity for timely decisions on pending proposals, flexibility in central schemes, clearly defined responsibilities, and regular reviews to accelerate the development process in the islands.

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