Some Glimpses of Andaman and Nicobar Islands

A group of islands known as the Andaman and Nicobar Islands are situated in the Bay of Bengal, off the eastern coast of India. It is a Union Territory of India and consists of two island groups, the Andaman Islands and the Nicobar Islands. Here are some key points about the Andaman and Nicobar Islands :

1. Geography : Only 38 of the 572 islands that make up the Andaman and Nicobar Islands are inhabited. This islands ectend from 6 degree to 14 degree North latitudes and from 92 degree to 94 degree  East longitudes.The Andamans are separated from the Nicobar group by a channel (the Ten Degree channel) some 150 km wide. The Andaman Islands are located to the north of the archipelago, while the Nicobar Islands are situated to the south. The capital city is Port Blair, located on South Andaman Island. Andaman and Nicobar is home to Barren Island, the only volcano in the country of India. It last erupted in 2017, making it an active volcano. Among the physical characteristics of this island are its beaches, mangrove streams, limestone caves, and mud volcanoes.

2. History : The islands have a diverse history. They were inhabited by indigenous tribes for thousands of years before the arrival of Europeans. The islands came under British colonial rule in the 19th century and were used as a penal colony by the British. Many political prisoners were incarcerated in the infamous Cellular Jail in Port Blair. A 10 m (33 ft) high tsunami that followed an underwater tremor in the Indian Ocean on December 26, 2004, completely destroyed the beaches of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

3. Biodiversity : The islands are known for their rich biodiversity and are considered one of the most ecologically significant regions in the world. The lush forests of the islands are home to many unique and endangered species, including the Andaman woodpecker, Andaman teal, Nicobar pigeon, saltwater crocodile, and the endemic Andaman dugong.

4. Indigenous Tribes : The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are inhabited by various indigenous tribes, some of which have had limited contact with the outside world. The tribes include the Jarawa, Sentinelese, Onge, Great Andamanese, Shompen, and Nicobarese. It is important to respect their isolation and refrain from attempting contact, as they are vulnerable to outside diseases.

5. Languages : Indigenous to the Nicobar Islands are the five Nicobarese languages, which from part of the Austroasiatic language family. About a dozen endangered or extinct Andamanese languages, which are unrelated to one another or any other language group, are spoken on the Andaman Islands. These languages are divided into at least two groups. However, languages from immigrants are spoken by the majority of the populace. These include Bengali, Tamil, Telugu, Hindi, Malayalam, Sadri and Kurukh.

6. Economy : The Nicobar group of islands' cash crops are coconut and arecanut, while paddy, the principal food crop, is primarily grown on the Andaman group of islands. In the fish processing industry, there are two units that are export-focused. In addition, there are shell and wood-based artisan businesses. In addition to acting as authorised agents for Alliance Air, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands Integrated Development Corporation has expanded its reach into the fields of tourism, fisheries, businesses, and industrial financing. The Islands have become a tourist destination, largely due its beaches and waters.

7. Tourism : The Andaman and Nicobar Islands have become a popular tourist destination in recent years, known for their stunning natural beauty and pristine beaches. Havelock  Island, Neil Island, and Ross Island are among the popular tourist spots.  Activities such as scuba diving, snorkeling, and underwater exploration are major attractions for visitors.

8. Cellular Jail : The Cellular Jail in Port Blair, also known as Kala Pani, is a historic site that serves as a reminder of India's struggle for independence. It was used by the British to exile political prisoners. The jail now serves as a national memorial and museum.

9. Connectivity : The islands are accessible by air and sea. Veer Savarkar International Airport in Port Blair is the main airport, with regular flights connecting to major cities in India. Ships and ferries operate between the mainland (Chennai, Kolkata, and Vishakhapatnam) and the islands.

10. Restrictions : Certain areas of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands are restricted for tourists due to their ecological significance or to protect the indigenous tribes. Travelers are advised to obtain necessary permits and follow regulations set by the local administration.

It's crucial to remember that the information is based on what is known as of September 2021. For the most up-to-date and detailed information, it's recommended to consult official government sources or local tourism authorities.

References : 1. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Andaman_and_Nicobar_Islands