<h4>Introduction to the Great Nicobar Project</h4><p>The <strong>Great Nicobar 'Holistic Development' Project</strong> has recently become a focal point of discussion. This ambitious initiative aims to transform parts of the <strong>Great Nicobar Island</strong>, an ecologically sensitive region.</p><div class='info-box'><p><strong>Spearheaded By:</strong> <strong>NITI Aayog</strong> (National Institution for Transforming India)</p><p><strong>Core Objective:</strong> 'Holistic Development' of the island, including infrastructure and economic growth.</p></div><h4>The Shift from 'No-Go Zone' Status</h4><p>Historically, certain areas within the <strong>Nicobar Islands</strong> have been designated as 'no-go zones' due to their extreme ecological fragility and the presence of indigenous tribes. The current project proposes significant changes, potentially altering this status for development purposes.</p><div class='key-point-box'><p>The term 'no-go zone' typically refers to areas where development activities are severely restricted or prohibited to protect critical ecosystems and vulnerable communities, such as the <strong>Shompen</strong> and <strong>Nicobarese</strong> tribes.</p></div><h4>Components of the Development Project</h4><p>The proposed development plan for <strong>Great Nicobar</strong> includes several large-scale infrastructure components. These are designed to boost the island's strategic and economic potential.</p><ul><li><strong>International Container Trans-shipment Port:</strong> A major port facility envisioned at <strong>Galathea Bay</strong>.</li><li><strong>Greenfield International Airport:</strong> Planned to enhance connectivity and tourism.</li><li><strong>Power Plant:</strong> A gas/solar-based power plant to meet energy demands.</li><li><strong>Township Development:</strong> Creation of urban settlements to support the new infrastructure and population.</li></ul><h4>Environmental and Social Concerns</h4><p>The project has generated considerable debate due to its potential impact on the island's unique biodiversity and indigenous populations. Environmental activists and tribal rights groups have raised significant concerns.</p><div class='exam-tip-box'><p><strong>UPSC Relevance:</strong> This project is crucial for <strong>GS Paper 3 (Environment & Ecology, Infrastructure)</strong> and <strong>GS Paper 1 (Geography, Society)</strong>, highlighting the conflict between development and conservation. Questions often focus on <strong>Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs)</strong> and tribal rights.</p></div>