Lets talk about Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Andaman and Nicobar is a union territory of India situated in the Bay of Bengal. It comprises 572 islands; the populated ones are very few. Known for their white sandy beaches, lush green forests, and vibrant marine life, these are tatts of the tropical world. They are historically relevant because of their association with India’s freedom struggle and the infamous Cellular Jail.
1. Geography
Location: Southeastern part of Bay of Bengal, near Andaman Sea.
Area: 8,249 km².
Capital: Port Blair.
Archipelago:
Andaman Islands (northern).
Nicobar Islands (southern).
Neighboring Countries:
Close to Myanmar (north), Thailand, and Indonesia (south).
Important Islands:
Havelock Island (now Swaraj Dweep).
Neil Island (now Shaheed Dweep).
Little Andaman, Great Nicobar.
2. History
Dawn of Mankind: Estimated to be inhabited for more than 30,000 years by aboriginal tribes.
Colonial Era: Christian explorers visited in the 18th century. Became a part of British India; infamous for Cellular Jail, imprisonment of freedom fighters.
World War II: The territory was occupied by the Japanese for some time.
After Independence: In 1956, it became a union territory of India.
3. Population and Culture
Population: About 400,000
Languages:
Official: Hindi and English
Regional: Bengali, Tamil, Telugu and Nicobarese
Indigenous Tribes:
Andamanese tribes : Great Andamanese, Jarawas, Onges, and Sentinalese
Nicobarese: Nicobari and Shompens
The Sentinelese tribe is one of the most isolated communities in the world.
Festivals: Island Tourism Festival, Pongal and cultural tribal events.
4. Economy
Agriculture: Major products are coconut, areca nut, rice and fruits.
Fishing: Marine fishing and aqua culture have a strong presence.
Tourism: A big tourist attraction on account of its beaches, coral reefs, water sports etc
Industry: Handicrafts, timber, shell products.
5. Natural Beauty and Biodiversity
Beaches and Islands:
Radhanagar Beach: among the best beaches in Asia. Swaraj Dweep and Shaheed Dweep islands are known for their clean waters and coral reefs.
Marine Life: Coral-ridden ecosystems and numerous aquatic life.
Forests: Covered over 80% of the geographical area.
Tropical rainforests and mangrove forests.
National Parks and Sanctuaries:
Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park.
Campbell Bay National Park.
Mount Harriet National Park.
6. Administration
Union Territory: Under the Central Government of India.
Districts:
South Andaman.
North and Middle Andaman.
Nicobar.
7. Tourism and Adventure
Water Sports: Scuba diving, snorkeling, sea walking and fishing.
Historical Places : Cellular Jail (Kala Pani): A historical site related to freedom struggle.
Ross Island (Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Island): Former administrative headquarters of the British.
Adventure: Trekking, bird watching and nature trails.
8. Miscellaneous Facts
State Symbols:
Animal: Dugong (sea cow).
Bird: Andaman Wood Pigeon.
Strategic Importance: Located closer to international shipping routes, it is a strategic region for India to defend and engage in maritime activities.
Climate: Tropical with heavy rainfall during monsoons.
Unique Features: The only active volcano in India is located at Barren Island.
Saddle Peak: It is the highest point in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are a melting pot of natural beauty and rich culture, very typical of historic importance. Right from their pristine beaches to vibrant marine life and indigenous heritage, the islands form a must-visit tourism destination, as well as a region of strategic importance for the country.
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