The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are a beautiful archipelago located off the southeastern coast of India, in the middle of the Bay of Bengal. This region consists of around 572 islands, islets, and rocky outcrops, of which only 37 are inhabited by humans. Administratively, the islands form a Union Territory of India, with Port Blair as the capital.
Geography and Natural Landscapes
The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are a tropical rainforest region filled with hills and dense vegetation. Blue seas, white sandy beaches, coral reefs, and diverse deep-sea life are the defining features of these islands.
In the Andaman group, Little Andaman, Middle Andaman, and North Andaman are the three major islands. The Nicobar Islands lie further to the south, where human habitation is very limited.
Through the Paths of History
The Andaman and Nicobar Islands have a rich history. Records show that indigenous tribal communities have lived here since ancient times.
During British rule, the islands were used as penal settlements. The most famous among them is the Cellular Jail, also known as Kalapani. Many freedom fighters were imprisoned and tortured here during India’s struggle for independence. Today, the Cellular Jail is preserved as a national monument.
People and Culture
Several indigenous tribes still live on these islands, such as the Onge, Sentinelese, Shompen, and Great Andamanese. Many of them have very little contact with the outside world. North Sentinel Island is completely isolated, and its inhabitants continue their lives following their traditional way of living.
Alongside them, people from different parts of India have migrated here, resulting in the use of languages such as Malayalam, Bengali, Tamil, Hindi, and Telugu. Religiously and culturally, the islands represent a unique center of harmony and coexistence.
A Paradise for Tourism
Today, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands are one of India’s major tourist destinations. Havelock Island, Ross Island, Neil Island, the Baratang Limestone Caves, and Radhanagar Beach are some of the main attractions. Sea fishing, scuba diving, snorkeling, and glass-bottom boat rides are popular activities here.
Contemporary Importance
The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are extremely important to India’s security and naval strategy. Major bases of the Indian Navy are located here, as the islands lie at a strategic point along the sea routes leading to Southeast Asia.
Although the 2004 tsunami caused severe damage to the islands, they have since recovered and been revitalized.
Natural beauty, historical monuments, and diverse cultures together create the unique charm of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Though they occupy only a small part of India’s map, they stand like a paradise where nature, humanity, and history come together.
