The Great Nicobar project and a Ministry in knots
The Indian Union Environment Ministry has admitted before the National Green Tribunal that the Great Nicobar infrastructure project will significantly impact the island's biodiversity. The project includes a port, airport, and township, and the government claims it has mitigation measures planned through 2052.
Why it matters
The admission confirms the environmental cost of a major government project, fueling ongoing legal and public debate over development versus conservation.
In an important submission made before the National Green Tribunal (NGT) on October 30, 2025, the Union Environment Ministry admitted that the Great Nicobar mega infrastructure project will have a significant impact on this biodiversity and forest-rich island located at the extreme south of the Andaman and Nicobar chain ( The Hindu , Fully aware of Great Nicobar project’s impact, says Centre , October 31, 2025).
The article reports on official court submissions and government statements without taking a definitive stance on the project's merit.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in