{"id":4171,"date":"2025-07-03T18:40:35","date_gmt":"2025-07-03T13:10:35","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/?p=4171"},"modified":"2025-10-16T17:15:04","modified_gmt":"2025-10-16T11:45:04","slug":"andaman-nicobar","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/andaman-nicobar\/","title":{"rendered":"Andaman and Nicobar Islands: History, Polity, Culture, Rivers, National Parks, and Economic Profile"},"content":{"rendered":"<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_82_2 counter-flat ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<label class=\"ez-toc-title ez-toc-toggle\" style=\"cursor:pointer\">Table of Contents<\/label>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #127abf;color:#127abf\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #127abf;color:#127abf\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 eztoc-toggle-hide-by-default' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/andaman-nicobar\/#Historical_Background_of_Andaman_Nicobar_Islands\" >Historical Background of Andaman Nicobar Islands<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/andaman-nicobar\/#Geography_and_Climate_of_Andaman_and_Nicobar_Islands\" >Geography and Climate of Andaman and Nicobar Islands<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/andaman-nicobar\/#Demographics_of_Andaman_and_Nicobar_Islands\" >Demographics of Andaman and Nicobar Islands<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/andaman-nicobar\/#State_Symbols_of_Andaman_and_Nicobar_Islands\" >State Symbols of Andaman and Nicobar Islands<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/andaman-nicobar\/#Andaman_and_Nicobar_Islands_Polity_and_Administrative_Structure\" >Andaman and Nicobar Islands Polity and Administrative Structure<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/andaman-nicobar\/#Culture_and_Traditions_of_Andaman_and_Nicobar_Islands\" >Culture and Traditions of Andaman and Nicobar Islands<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/andaman-nicobar\/#Andaman_and_Nicobar_Islands_National_Parks_and_Wildlife_Sanctuaries\" >Andaman and Nicobar Islands National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/andaman-nicobar\/#Economic_Profile_of_Andaman_and_Nicobar_Islands\" >Economic Profile of Andaman and Nicobar Islands<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/andaman-nicobar\/#Ports_of_Andaman_and_Nicobar_Islands\" >Ports of Andaman and Nicobar Islands<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/andaman-nicobar\/#Andaman_and_Nicobar_Islands_Mineral_Resources\" >Andaman and Nicobar Islands Mineral Resources<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/andaman-nicobar\/#Unique_and_Notable_Facts_about_Andaman_and_Nicobar_Islands\" >Unique and Notable Facts about Andaman and Nicobar Islands<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/andaman-nicobar\/#Andaman_Nicobar_Islands_FAQs\" >Andaman Nicobar Islands FAQs<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Andaman and Nicobar Islands, a union territory of India, plays an important role in the country&#8217;s strategic and ecological framework. Known for its pristine beaches, indigenous tribes, and marine biodiversity, the islands blend natural beauty with historical significance. Spanning 8,249 square kilometers, it is one of India&#8217;s most geographically dispersed territories. As per the 2011 Census, Andaman and Nicobar Islands have a population of over 380,000. Port Blair, the capital, serves as the administrative and economic hub, while islands like Havelock and Neil contribute significantly to tourism.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-4175\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Screenshot-2025-07-03-154857.png?resize=300%2C168&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"168\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Screenshot-2025-07-03-154857.png?resize=300%2C168&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Screenshot-2025-07-03-154857.png?w=679&amp;ssl=1 679w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><b>Also Reads: <\/b><a href=\"https:\/\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/indian-states-and-their-capitals\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><b>Indian States and Their Capitals 2025<\/b><\/a><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Historical_Background_of_Andaman_Nicobar_Islands\"><\/span><b>Historical Background of Andaman Nicobar Islands<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Andaman and Nicobar Islands have a long historical timeline that includes early settlements by indigenous tribes like the Jarawas and Sentinelese. The region saw colonial occupation by the British, who established a penal colony in Port Blair during the 19th century. The islands played a strategic role during World War II when they were briefly occupied by Japanese forces. Post-independence, the territory became part of India in 1950 and was later declared a union territory in 1956 under the States Reorganisation Act.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Also Read:<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/?p=2870&amp;preview=true\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Andhra Pradesh<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Geography_and_Climate_of_Andaman_and_Nicobar_Islands\"><\/span><b>Geography and Climate of Andaman and Nicobar Islands<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-4176\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Screenshot-2025-07-03-154946.png?resize=300%2C200&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"200\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Screenshot-2025-07-03-154946.png?resize=300%2C200&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Screenshot-2025-07-03-154946.png?w=677&amp;ssl=1 677w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Andaman and Nicobar Islands are located in the Bay of Bengal, comprising over 500 islands. The territory shares maritime borders with Myanmar to the north and Indonesia to the south.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Also Read: <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/union-territories-of-india\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Union Territories of India List 2025 With Capitals<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n<table>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td><b>Category<\/b><\/td>\n<td><b>Details<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><b>Geographical Features<\/b><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">&#8211; <\/span><b>Island Archipelago<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (572 islands, islets and rocks)<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> &#8211; <\/span><b>Barren Island<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (only active volcano in South Asia)<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> &#8211; <\/span><b>Major Island Groups<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Andaman (north), Nicobar (south)<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> &#8211; <\/span><b>Highest Point<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Saddle Peak (732 m in North Andaman)<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> &#8211; <\/span><b>Lowest Point<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Sea level (coastal areas)<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> &#8211; <\/span><b>Rich marine biodiversity<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (coral reefs, mangroves) and tropical rainforests<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><b>Climate Type<\/b><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Tropical Maritime<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><b>Seasons<\/b><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">&#8211; <\/span><b>Summer (Mar-May)<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Hot and humid<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> &#8211; <\/span><b>Monsoon (Jun-Sep)<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Southwest monsoon (heavy rainfall)<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> &#8211; <\/span><b>Post-Monsoon (Oct-Dec)<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Retreating monsoon<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> &#8211; <\/span><b>Winter (Jan-Feb)<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Mild and pleasant<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><b>Climate Variation<\/b><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">&#8211; <\/span><b>Northern Islands (Andaman)<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Higher rainfall<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> &#8211; <\/span><b>Southern Islands (Nicobar)<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Slightly warmer<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> &#8211; <\/span><b>Coastal Areas<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: More humid<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> &#8211; <\/span><b>Interior Forests<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: More moderate temperatures<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Also Read:<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/?p=2916&amp;preview=true\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Arunachal Pradesh<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Demographics_of_Andaman_and_Nicobar_Islands\"><\/span><b>Demographics of Andaman and Nicobar Islands<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">As per the 2011 Census, Andaman and Nicobar Islands had a population of 380,581. The population density stands at 46 persons per square kilometer, among the lowest in India. The sex ratio is 876 females per 1000 males, below the national average.<\/span><\/p>\n<table>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td><b>Category<\/b><\/td>\n<td><b>Details<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><b>Population (2011 Census)<\/b><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">380,581<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><b>Population Density<\/b><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">46 persons\/km\u00b2<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><b>Sex Ratio<\/b><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">876 females per 1000 males<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><b>Literacy Rate<\/b><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">86.3% (Male: 90.1%, Female: 81.8%)<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><b>Languages Spoken<\/b><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">&#8211; Hindi (official)<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> &#8211; Bengali<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> &#8211; Tamil<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> &#8211; Telugu<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> &#8211; Nicobarese<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> &#8211; English (administrative language)<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Also Read:<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/chhattisgarh\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Chattisgarh<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"State_Symbols_of_Andaman_and_Nicobar_Islands\"><\/span><b>State Symbols of Andaman and Nicobar Islands<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Each state has its own symbols. Following are the state symbols Andaman and Nicobar Islands of :<\/span><\/p>\n<p><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-4177\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Screenshot-2025-07-03-155041.png?resize=300%2C227&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"227\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Screenshot-2025-07-03-155041.png?resize=300%2C227&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Screenshot-2025-07-03-155041.png?w=315&amp;ssl=1 315w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/p>\n<table>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td><b>Symbol<\/b><\/td>\n<td><b>Name<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><b>State Animal<\/b><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Dugong<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><b>State Bird<\/b><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Andaman Wood Pigeon<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><b>State Tree<\/b><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Andaman Padauk<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><b>State Flower<\/b><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Pyinma<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">These symbols reflect Andaman and Nicobar Islands&#8217; unique island ecology and biodiversity.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<p><b>Also Read:<\/b><a href=\"https:\/\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/assam\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Assam<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n<div id=\"metaslider-id-5575\" style=\"width: 100%;\" class=\"ml-slider-3-107-0 metaslider metaslider-flex metaslider-5575 ml-slider has-dots-nav ms-theme-default-base\" role=\"region\" aria-label=\"New Slideshow\" data-height=\"300\" data-width=\"700\">\n    <div id=\"metaslider_container_5575\">\n        <div id=\"metaslider_5575\">\n            <ul aria-live='off' class='slides'>\n                <li style=\"display: block; width: 100%;\" class=\"slide-5579 ms-image \" aria-roledescription=\"slide\" data-date=\"2025-10-11 11:47:58\" data-filename=\"400-X-180cdr-scaled-700x300.jpg\" data-slide-type=\"image\"><a href=\"https:\/\/theiashub.com\/courses\/mains\/upsc-qep-2026-batch-5-english\" target=\"_self\" aria-label=\"View Slide Details\" class=\"metaslider_image_link\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/400-X-180cdr-scaled.jpg?resize=700%2C300&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"300\" width=\"700\" alt=\"\" class=\"slider-5575 slide-5579 msDefaultImage\" title=\"400 X 180cdr\" \/><\/a><\/li>\n                <li style=\"display: none; width: 100%;\" class=\"slide-5580 ms-image \" aria-roledescription=\"slide\" data-date=\"2025-10-11 11:47:58\" data-filename=\"pocket-notes-website-400x180-1-scaled-700x300.jpg\" data-slide-type=\"image\"><a href=\"https:\/\/theiashub.com\/courses\/upsc-cse-books\/qep-pocket-notes-2.0\" target=\"_self\" aria-label=\"View Slide Details\" class=\"metaslider_image_link\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/pocket-notes-website-400x180-1-scaled.jpg?resize=700%2C300&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"300\" width=\"700\" alt=\"\" class=\"slider-5575 slide-5580 msDefaultImage\" title=\"pocket-notes-website-400x180\" \/><\/a><\/li>\n                <li style=\"display: none; width: 100%;\" class=\"slide-5581 ms-image \" aria-roledescription=\"slide\" data-date=\"2025-10-11 11:47:58\" data-filename=\"web-site-banner-toppers-book.-400x180-1-scaled-700x300.jpg\" data-slide-type=\"image\"><a href=\"https:\/\/theiashub.com\/courses\/upsc-cse-books\/toppers-handwritten-upsc-pyq-4-books\" target=\"_self\" aria-label=\"View Slide Details\" class=\"metaslider_image_link\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/web-site-banner-toppers-book.-400x180-1-scaled.jpg?resize=700%2C300&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"300\" width=\"700\" alt=\"\" class=\"slider-5575 slide-5581 msDefaultImage\" title=\"web site banner toppers book. 400x180\" \/><\/a><\/li>\n            <\/ul>\n        <\/div>\n        \n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Andaman_and_Nicobar_Islands_Polity_and_Administrative_Structure\"><\/span><b>Andaman and Nicobar Islands Polity and Administrative Structure<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Andaman and Nicobar Islands does not have its own Legislative Assembly. The governance is through an Administrator appointed by the central government, with some local representation through the Andaman and Nicobar Islands Territorial Congress Committee.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-4178\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Screenshot-2025-07-03-155120.png?resize=300%2C226&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"226\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Screenshot-2025-07-03-155120.png?resize=300%2C226&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Screenshot-2025-07-03-155120.png?w=682&amp;ssl=1 682w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/p>\n<table>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td><b>Category<\/b><\/td>\n<td><b>Details<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><b>Union Territory Formation<\/b><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">November 1, 1956 (States Reorganisation Act)<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><b>Lieutenant Governor<\/b><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Admiral D.K. Joshi (since 2021)<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><b>Chief Justice (High Court)<\/b><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Hon&#8217;ble Justice Siddharth Mridul (since 2023)<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> &#8211; High Court: Calcutta High Court (circuit bench at Port Blair)<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><b>Legislature Type<\/b><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Union Territory (No Legislative Assembly)<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><b>Lok Sabha Representation<\/b><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">1 Member<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><b>Rajya Sabha Representation<\/b><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">N\/A<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><b>Districts (2024)<\/b><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">3<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><b>Local Governance Units<\/b><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Divided into districts, tehsils, and panchayats<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<p><b>Also Read:<\/b><a href=\"https:\/\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/bihar\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Bihar<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Culture_and_Traditions_of_Andaman_and_Nicobar_Islands\"><\/span><b>Culture and Traditions of Andaman and Nicobar Islands<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Andaman and Nicobar Islands&#8217; culture reflects a unique blend of indigenous tribal traditions and settler influences from mainland India, creating a distinct island identity.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-4179\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Screenshot-2025-07-03-155616.png?resize=300%2C184&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"184\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Screenshot-2025-07-03-155616.png?resize=300%2C184&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Screenshot-2025-07-03-155616.png?w=678&amp;ssl=1 678w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/p>\n<table>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td><b>Category<\/b><\/td>\n<td><b>Details<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><b>Traditional Dances<\/b><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Nicobari Dance and Andamanese Tribal Dances are prominent.<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><b>Nicobari Dance<\/b><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">&#8211; Traditional dance form of the Nicobari tribe performed during festivals.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> &#8211; Features: Rhythmic body movements, bamboo sticks, and coconut shells.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> &#8211; Themes: Celebration of nature, harvest, and community bonding.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> &#8211; Unique Aspect: Performed in circles to traditional chants and simple percussion.<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><b>Andamanese Tribal Dances<\/b><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">&#8211; Ritualistic dances of indigenous tribes like the Jarawa and Onge.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> &#8211; Features: Mimicking animal movements and natural elements.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> &#8211; Themes: Hunting, nature worship, and tribal folklore.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> &#8211; Unique Aspect: Uses body paint and natural materials as costumes.<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><b>Theatre Art<\/b><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The islands have unique indigenous performance traditions.<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><b>Shamanic Performances<\/b><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Ritualistic storytelling by tribal medicine men using chants and gestures.<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><b>Folk Music<\/b><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Reflects the islands&#8217; tribal heritage and settler influences.<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><b>Jarawa Chants<\/b><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Traditional call-and-response songs during tribal ceremonies.<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><b>Settler Folk Songs<\/b><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Bengali and Tamil folk songs adapted to island life.<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><b>Classical Music<\/b><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Mainland Indian classical traditions are practiced by settler communities.<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><b>Performance Traditions<\/b><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Community gatherings often feature Carnatic and Hindustani music performances.<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><b>Festivals<\/b><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">&#8211; Island Tourism Festival: Showcases local culture through dance and music.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> &#8211; Subhash Mela: Celebrates Netaji&#8217;s historic visit to the islands.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> &#8211; Durga Puja and Diwali celebrated with island-style adaptations.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> &#8211; Christmas: Major celebration among Nicobari tribes with unique traditions.<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><b>Arts and Crafts<\/b><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The islands have distinctive tribal and settler crafts.<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><b>Shell Jewelry<\/b><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Intricate ornaments made from seashells and corals.<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><b>Cane Work<\/b><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Traditional Nicobari baskets and household items.<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><b>Wood Carvings<\/b><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Tribal art depicting local wildlife and mythology.<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><b>Architecture<\/b><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The islands showcase colonial and indigenous styles.<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><b>Cellular Jail<\/b><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Historic colonial-era prison with unique star-shaped design.<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><b>Nicobari Huts<\/b><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Traditional stilt houses made from local materials.<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><b>British-era Buildings<\/b><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Colonial architecture in Port Blair.<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Andaman_and_Nicobar_Islands_National_Parks_and_Wildlife_Sanctuaries\"><\/span><b>Andaman and Nicobar Islands National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Andaman and Nicobar Islands are home to unique island ecosystems, ranging from tropical rainforests to coral reefs, preserved in its national parks and sanctuaries.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-4180\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Screenshot-2025-07-03-155901.png?resize=300%2C205&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"205\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Screenshot-2025-07-03-155901.png?resize=300%2C205&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Screenshot-2025-07-03-155901.png?w=311&amp;ssl=1 311w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/p>\n<table>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td><b>Category<\/b><\/td>\n<td><b>Details<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><b>National Parks<\/b><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Campbell Bay National Park (Great Nicobar)<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> &#8211; Known for: Tropical forests, Nicobar megapode, saltwater crocodiles<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> &#8211; Area: 426 sq. km<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park (Wandoor)<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> &#8211; Known for: Coral reefs, marine life, and mangrove creeks<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> &#8211; Area: 281.5 sq. km<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><b>Largest National Park<\/b><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Galathea National Park<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> &#8211; Area: 110 sq. km<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> &#8211; Location: Great Nicobar<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> &#8211; Key features: Rainforests, giant robber crabs<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><b>Smallest National Park<\/b><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">North Button Island National Park<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> &#8211; Area: 0.44 sq. km<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> &#8211; Location: North Andaman<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> &#8211; Key features: Coral reefs, dugongs<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><b>Notable Wildlife Sanctuaries<\/b><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Landfall Island Wildlife Sanctuary<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Lohabarrack Saltwater Crocodile Sanctuary<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Interview Island Wildlife Sanctuary<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><b>Neighboring Regions<\/b><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Myanmar to north, Indonesia to south<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> 1,200 km coastline along Bay of Bengal and Andaman Sea<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><b>Ramsar Sites<\/b><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">None currently designated<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><b>UNESCO Sites<\/b><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">None currently designated<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><b>Key Species<\/b><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">&#8211; Andaman wild pig<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> &#8211; Nicobar tree shrew<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> &#8211; Saltwater crocodile<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> &#8211; Coral reef ecosystems<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Key Points:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Campbell Bay is the largest while North Button Island is the smallest national park<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The islands have 9 national parks and 96 wildlife sanctuaries.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Endemic species include Nicobar megapode and Andaman teal<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Coral reefs are among the most biodiverse in India<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Islands form part of the Indo-Burma biodiversity hotspot<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Economic_Profile_of_Andaman_and_Nicobar_Islands\"><\/span><b>Economic Profile of Andaman and Nicobar Islands<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The economy of Andaman Nicobar is diversified, with strong indicators, supported by robust infrastructure and industrial growth.<\/span><\/p>\n<table>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td><b>Category<\/b><\/td>\n<td><b>Details<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><b>Key Sectors<\/b><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Tourism: Beach resorts, scuba diving, ecotourism<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Fisheries: Tuna, shrimp, and crab exports<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Handicrafts: Shell and wood products<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Agriculture: Coconut, areca nut, spices<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Shipping: Strategic port location<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><b>Major Projects<\/b><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Port Blair Smart City development<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Havelock Island tourism infrastructure<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Submarine cable connectivity project<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><b>Economic Overview<\/b><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">GSDP for 2023-24: \u20b90.45 lakh crore<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Sector-wise Contribution:<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> &#8211; Services: 65%<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> &#8211; Industry: 20%<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> &#8211; Agriculture: 15%<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><b>Major Economic Centres<\/b><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Port Blair: Administration and trade<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Havelock Island: Tourism hub<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Diglipur: Agriculture and fisheries<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><b>Important Infrastructure<\/b><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Port Blair Airport<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Haddo Wharf (main port)<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Chatham Saw Mill (Asia&#8217;s oldest)<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Ports_of_Andaman_and_Nicobar_Islands\"><\/span><b>Ports of Andaman and Nicobar Islands<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Following is the list of all Ports of Andaman Nicobar Islands:<\/span><\/p>\n<table>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td><b>Port Name<\/b><\/td>\n<td><b>Type<\/b><\/td>\n<td><b>Location<\/b><\/td>\n<td><b>Key Features<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Port Blair Port<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Major<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Port Blair<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Main commercial and passenger port<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Havelock Jetty<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Minor<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Havelock<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Tourism and inter-island transport<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Mayabunder Port<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Minor<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Mayabunder<\/span><\/td>\n<td><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Northern islands supply chain<\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Andaman_and_Nicobar_Islands_Mineral_Resources\"><\/span><b>Andaman and Nicobar Islands Mineral Resources<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Limited mineral resources due to island geology:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Coral sand (construction)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Limestone (minor deposits)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Clay (pottery)<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<div id=\"metaslider-id-5575\" style=\"width: 100%;\" class=\"ml-slider-3-107-0 metaslider metaslider-flex metaslider-5575 ml-slider has-dots-nav ms-theme-default-base\" role=\"region\" aria-label=\"New Slideshow\" data-height=\"300\" data-width=\"700\">\n    <div id=\"metaslider_container_5575\">\n        <div id=\"metaslider_5575\">\n            <ul aria-live='off' class='slides'>\n                <li style=\"display: block; width: 100%;\" class=\"slide-5579 ms-image \" aria-roledescription=\"slide\" data-date=\"2025-10-11 11:47:58\" data-filename=\"400-X-180cdr-scaled-700x300.jpg\" data-slide-type=\"image\"><a href=\"https:\/\/theiashub.com\/courses\/mains\/upsc-qep-2026-batch-5-english\" target=\"_self\" aria-label=\"View Slide Details\" class=\"metaslider_image_link\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/400-X-180cdr-scaled.jpg?resize=700%2C300&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"300\" width=\"700\" alt=\"\" class=\"slider-5575 slide-5579 msDefaultImage\" title=\"400 X 180cdr\" \/><\/a><\/li>\n                <li style=\"display: none; width: 100%;\" class=\"slide-5580 ms-image \" aria-roledescription=\"slide\" data-date=\"2025-10-11 11:47:58\" data-filename=\"pocket-notes-website-400x180-1-scaled-700x300.jpg\" data-slide-type=\"image\"><a href=\"https:\/\/theiashub.com\/courses\/upsc-cse-books\/qep-pocket-notes-2.0\" target=\"_self\" aria-label=\"View Slide Details\" class=\"metaslider_image_link\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/pocket-notes-website-400x180-1-scaled.jpg?resize=700%2C300&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"300\" width=\"700\" alt=\"\" class=\"slider-5575 slide-5580 msDefaultImage\" title=\"pocket-notes-website-400x180\" \/><\/a><\/li>\n                <li style=\"display: none; width: 100%;\" class=\"slide-5581 ms-image \" aria-roledescription=\"slide\" data-date=\"2025-10-11 11:47:58\" data-filename=\"web-site-banner-toppers-book.-400x180-1-scaled-700x300.jpg\" data-slide-type=\"image\"><a href=\"https:\/\/theiashub.com\/courses\/upsc-cse-books\/toppers-handwritten-upsc-pyq-4-books\" target=\"_self\" aria-label=\"View Slide Details\" class=\"metaslider_image_link\"><img data-recalc-dims=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/web-site-banner-toppers-book.-400x180-1-scaled.jpg?resize=700%2C300&#038;ssl=1\" height=\"300\" width=\"700\" alt=\"\" class=\"slider-5575 slide-5581 msDefaultImage\" title=\"web site banner toppers book. 400x180\" \/><\/a><\/li>\n            <\/ul>\n        <\/div>\n        \n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Unique_and_Notable_Facts_about_Andaman_and_Nicobar_Islands\"><\/span><b>Unique and Notable Facts about Andaman and Nicobar Islands<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">India&#8217;s Only Active Volcano<\/span><b>: Barren Island in the Andamans is South Asia&#8217;s sole active volcano, last erupting in 2022.<\/b><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Sentinelese Tribe<\/span><b>: Home to one of the world&#8217;s last uncontacted tribes who have lived in isolation for 60,000 years.<\/b><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Coral Paradise<\/span><b>: Contains 560+ coral species, making it India&#8217;s richest marine biodiversity hotspot.<\/b><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">World War II Legacy<\/span><b>: Ross Island was called the &#8220;Paris of the East&#8221; during British rule, while Japanese bunkers remain at Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Island.<\/b><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Unique Wildlife<\/span><b>: Only habitat of the Narcondam hornbill and Andaman wild pig found nowhere else on Earth.<\/b><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Strategic Location<\/span><b>: Closest Indian territory to Southeast Asia, just 150 km from Indonesia.<\/b><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Turtle Nesting Grounds<\/span><b>: Important nesting sites for leatherback, hawksbill and olive ridley sea turtles.<\/b><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">First Tri-Service Command<\/span><b>: Headquarters of India&#8217;s first integrated military command established in 2001.<\/b><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cellular Jail<\/span><b>: The &#8220;Kala Pani&#8221; prison housed Indian freedom fighters during British rule.<\/b><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Ecological Marvel<\/span><b>: 86% of the territory is forested, with rainforests dating back to the Pleistocene era.<\/b><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Are you preparing for UPSC 2025?<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/theiashub.com\/courses\/prelims\/prelims-samadhaan-mentorship-2025?utm_source=website&amp;utm_medium=home_page&amp;utm_campaign=course\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Join IAShub&#8217;s UPSC coaching batches<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> to boost your preparation. Enroll now!<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Andaman and Nicobar Islands, with their strategic importance, ecological treasures and unique indigenous cultures, represent a microcosm of India&#8217;s maritime heritage. Understanding these islands is crucial for UPSC aspirants examining India&#8217;s security, tribal policies and environmental conservation challenges.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Andaman_Nicobar_Islands_FAQs\"><\/span><b>Andaman Nicobar Islands FAQs<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<style>#sp-ea-4172 .spcollapsing { height: 0; overflow: hidden; transition-property: height;transition-duration: 300ms;}#sp-ea-4172{ position: relative; }#sp-ea-4172 .ea-card{ opacity: 0;}#eap-preloader-4172{ position: absolute; left: 0; top: 0; height: 100%;width: 100%; text-align: center;display: flex; align-items: center;justify-content: center;}#sp-ea-4172.sp-easy-accordion>.sp-ea-single {margin-bottom: 10px; border: 1px solid #e2e2e2; }#sp-ea-4172.sp-easy-accordion>.sp-ea-single>.ea-header a {color: #444;}#sp-ea-4172.sp-easy-accordion>.sp-ea-single>.sp-collapse>.ea-body {background: #fff; color: #444;}#sp-ea-4172.sp-easy-accordion>.sp-ea-single {background: #eee;}#sp-ea-4172.sp-easy-accordion>.sp-ea-single>.ea-header a .ea-expand-icon { float: left; color: #444;font-size: 16px;}.sp-ea-one.sp-easy-accordion .sp-ea-single .ea-header a {\r\n  padding: 7px;\r\n  background: #fff;\r\n}\r\n\r\n.sp-easy-accordion .sp-ea-single .ea-header a {\r\n  font-size: 1rem;\r\n}\r\n.sp-ea-one.sp-easy-accordion .sp-ea-single .ea-header a .ea-expand-icon {\r\n  font-size: 1rem;\r\n}\r\n\r\n.sp-easy-accordion .sp-ea-single .ea-header a .ea-expand-icon {\r\n  margin-right: 0px;\r\n}\r\n\r\n.sp-easy-accordion .sp-ea-single{\r\n background: #fff;\r\n}\r\n\r\n.ea-expand a{\r\n  background: #cfe2ff !important;\r\n}\r\n\r\n.sp-easy-accordion{\r\n  margin-bottom: 1rem;\r\n  margin-top: 1rem;\r\n}<\/style><div id=\"sp_easy_accordion-1751537268\"><div id=\"sp-ea-4172\" class=\"sp-ea-one sp-easy-accordion\" data-ea-active=\"ea-click\" data-ea-mode=\"vertical\" data-preloader=\"1\" data-scroll-active-item=\"1\" data-offset-to-scroll=\"0\"><div id=\"eap-preloader-4172\" class=\"accordion-preloader\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/wp-content\/plugins\/easy-accordion-free\/public\/assets\/ea_loader.svg\" alt=\"Loader image\"\/><\/div><div class=\"ea-card ea-expand sp-ea-single\"><h3 class=\"ea-header\"><a class=\"collapsed\" id=\"ea-header-41720\" role=\"button\" data-sptoggle=\"spcollapse\" data-sptarget=\"#collapse41720\" aria-controls=\"collapse41720\" href=\"#\" aria-expanded=\"true\" tabindex=\"0\"><i aria-hidden=\"true\" role=\"presentation\" class=\"ea-expand-icon eap-icon-ea-expand-minus\"><\/i> What is the historical significance of Andaman and Nicobar Islands?<\/a><\/h3><div class=\"sp-collapse spcollapse collapsed show\" id=\"collapse41720\" data-parent=\"#sp-ea-4172\" role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"ea-header-41720\"> <div class=\"ea-body\"><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">The islands served as a British penal colony from 1858, housing freedom fighters in Cellular Jail. During WWII, they were briefly occupied by Japan (1942-45). Post-independence, they became a Union Territory in 1956, playing a strategic role in India's Look East Policy.<\/span><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"ea-card sp-ea-single\"><h3 class=\"ea-header\"><a class=\"collapsed\" id=\"ea-header-41721\" role=\"button\" data-sptoggle=\"spcollapse\" data-sptarget=\"#collapse41721\" aria-controls=\"collapse41721\" href=\"#\" aria-expanded=\"false\" tabindex=\"0\"><i aria-hidden=\"true\" role=\"presentation\" class=\"ea-expand-icon eap-icon-ea-expand-plus\"><\/i> What are the major indigenous tribes of the islands?<\/a><\/h3><div class=\"sp-collapse spcollapse \" id=\"collapse41721\" data-parent=\"#sp-ea-4172\" role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"ea-header-41721\"> <div class=\"ea-body\"><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">\u00a0The territory has 6 indigenous tribes: the Great Andamanese, Onges, Jarawas, Sentinelese (all in Andamans), and Shompens and Nicobarese (in Nicobar). The Sentinelese remain among the last uncontacted peoples globally.<\/span><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"ea-card sp-ea-single\"><h3 class=\"ea-header\"><a class=\"collapsed\" id=\"ea-header-41722\" role=\"button\" data-sptoggle=\"spcollapse\" data-sptarget=\"#collapse41722\" aria-controls=\"collapse41722\" href=\"#\" aria-expanded=\"false\" tabindex=\"0\"><i aria-hidden=\"true\" role=\"presentation\" class=\"ea-expand-icon eap-icon-ea-expand-plus\"><\/i> What are the key ecological features of the islands?<\/a><\/h3><div class=\"sp-collapse spcollapse \" id=\"collapse41722\" data-parent=\"#sp-ea-4172\" role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"ea-header-41722\"> <div class=\"ea-body\"><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">\u00a0The archipelago boasts tropical rainforests with 2,200+ plant species, fringing coral reefs with 1,200 fish species, and mangrove forests covering 15% of the coastline. It's part of the Indo-Burma biodiversity hotspot.<\/span><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"ea-card sp-ea-single\"><h3 class=\"ea-header\"><a class=\"collapsed\" id=\"ea-header-41723\" role=\"button\" data-sptoggle=\"spcollapse\" data-sptarget=\"#collapse41723\" aria-controls=\"collapse41723\" href=\"#\" aria-expanded=\"false\" tabindex=\"0\"><i aria-hidden=\"true\" role=\"presentation\" class=\"ea-expand-icon eap-icon-ea-expand-plus\"><\/i> What are the islands' main economic activities?<\/a><\/h3><div class=\"sp-collapse spcollapse \" id=\"collapse41723\" data-parent=\"#sp-ea-4172\" role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"ea-header-41723\"> <div class=\"ea-body\"><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">\u00a0The economy depends on tourism (scuba diving, ecotourism), fisheries (tuna exports), coconut plantations, and handicrafts (shell, wood). Port Blair serves as the administrative and commercial hub.<\/span><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div><div class=\"ea-card sp-ea-single\"><h3 class=\"ea-header\"><a class=\"collapsed\" id=\"ea-header-41724\" role=\"button\" data-sptoggle=\"spcollapse\" data-sptarget=\"#collapse41724\" aria-controls=\"collapse41724\" href=\"#\" aria-expanded=\"false\" tabindex=\"0\"><i aria-hidden=\"true\" role=\"presentation\" class=\"ea-expand-icon eap-icon-ea-expand-plus\"><\/i> What protected areas exist in the islands?<\/a><\/h3><div class=\"sp-collapse spcollapse \" id=\"collapse41724\" data-parent=\"#sp-ea-4172\" role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"ea-header-41724\"> <div class=\"ea-body\"><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">\u00a0Important conservation areas include Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park (coral reefs), Campbell Bay National Park (rainforests), and Lohabarrack Sanctuary (saltwater crocodiles). The islands have 9 national parks and 96 sanctuaries.<\/span><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p> Explore Andaman and Nicobar Islands&#8217; history, polity, culture, rivers, national parks, and economy. Discover unique tribal heritage, marine biodiversity, and the strategic importance of this Union Territory in India&#8217;s maritime framework.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":3,"featured_media":4182,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[2],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-4171","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-blog"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4171","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/3"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=4171"}],"version-history":[{"count":6,"href":"https:\/\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4171\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":5998,"href":"https:\/\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4171\/revisions\/5998"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/4182"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=4171"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=4171"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/theiashub.com\/upsc\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=4171"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}