Topic: Conservation, environmental pollution and degradation, environmental impact assessment
Q6. “India’s maritime security is increasingly linked to its ability to develop strategic infrastructure in remote island territories.” Examine the significance of island development projects for India’s maritime interests. Assess the associated ecological concerns. (10 M)
Difficulty Level: Medium
Reference: TH
Why the question
The Great Nicobar development project has revived debates on balancing maritime security, strategic infrastructure development and environmental conservation in ecologically sensitive island ecosystems.
Key Demand of the question
The question requires examining how island development projects strengthen India’s maritime interests and strategic objectives. It also requires assessing the ecological concerns arising from such projects and the challenges of achieving sustainable development.
Structure of the Answer:
Introduction
Briefly highlight the growing strategic importance of island territories in India’s Indo-Pacific vision and maritime security architecture.
Body
- Significance for maritime security: Explain how island development enhances surveillance, power projection, SLOC security, logistics and maritime domain awareness.
- Economic and strategic benefits: Mention the role of ports, connectivity and trans-shipment infrastructure in strengthening maritime trade and regional influence.
- Ecological concerns: Discuss issues relating to biodiversity loss, coastal ecosystem degradation, endemic species, tribal concerns and disaster vulnerability.
Conclusion
Emphasise the need for a balanced approach that integrates strategic imperatives with ecological sustainability, making island development both secure and environmentally resilient.
