Gurugram, May 1: Major General (Retd) Arvind Bhatia has elaborated on the strategic significance of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands and the Great Nicobar Project. He highlighted the limited use of forests, the proposed container terminal, and the reduction of dependence on foreign shipping. Bhatia urged all political parties to support these projects of national importance.
In an interview with a news agency, Bhatia stated that a new city will be established for the local population. The first step involves constructing an international transshipment container terminal. A greenfield airport will also be developed for both civilian and military purposes. Additionally, military assets, naval bases, and air force stations will be set up. The project’s importance surged after Prime Minister Narendra Modi directed extensive mapping of the islands in 2018 and tasked the Navy with conducting a detailed survey.
It is noteworthy that Ross Island was renamed after Subhas Chandra Bose, while Havelock and Neil Islands were renamed Swaraj and Shaheed, respectively. Historically, Bose established a base here during the freedom struggle. The current government has emphasized the region’s significance and infrastructure development.
Bhatia explained that the Andaman and Nicobar Islands comprise a group of 836 islands, located approximately 1200-1300 km from the Indian mainland. They are closer to countries like Myanmar, Thailand, Malaysia, and Singapore. Out of the 836 islands, only 38 are currently inhabited, with a total population of about 350,000. The project will be developed in the eastern part of Great Nicobar Island.
According to Bhatia, only 1.82% of forest area will be utilized for the project, while 82% will remain untouched. An ‘International Container Transshipment Terminal’ will be constructed with a capacity of 1.62 million TEUs.
He noted, “China is a key factor. If a ship needs to enter the Indian Ocean from the Pacific, it passes through the Sunda Strait, Lombok Strait, or Malacca Strait, with the latter being the largest. If our position is closer, our ships, surveillance systems, coast guard, and naval forces can operate more effectively. With the establishment of an international transshipment terminal and a greenfield airport, fighter jets can also take off and be redeployed from here.”
This project is a significant step to monitor China’s influence, presence, and trade in the region, which is likely to face opposition from China. If the opposition is protesting in this manner, it raises questions about whether they are playing into China’s hands. There should be unity on national security issues, free from political agendas.
Responding to Congress leader Rahul Gandhi’s comments on the Great Nicobar Project, Major General (Retd) Arvind Bhatia emphasized its strategic importance and military implications, as well as its critical role in the maritime domain.
Considering all these aspects, the project will create a significant national asset, including an international container transshipment terminal with a capacity of 1.62 million TEUs, making it one of the largest ports. Currently, about 75% of India’s container handling depends on foreign ports, and this project will significantly reduce that reliance, bolstering domestic capabilities. It is a crucial project that should not be opposed for political gain or publicity.
Bhatia remarked on the need for opposition support whenever such national or strategic assets are developed. Opposition should not resist initiatives simply because they are government-led. Issues like the Rafale deal, the Galwan Valley conflict, and military matters should not be politicized for applause. National interest must take precedence, and on projects like the Great Nicobar Island development, the opposition should offer full support instead of resistance.
Bhatia further stated, “The Hormuz Strait has demonstrated the importance of maritime chokepoints. Looking at Great Nicobar Island, it is about 100 kilometers from the Malacca Strait, which is a crucial chokepoint through which nearly 30% of global trade passes. A significant portion of China’s trade also transits this route. Strengthening India’s military, naval, and surveillance presence here will enhance its capabilities in the maritime domain and provide better control over this chokepoint. Therefore, developing such infrastructure around the Malacca Strait is vital due to its strategic and national security significance.”
Arpit Soni has had a passion for journalism since the beginning. Now he has turned this hobby into his profession. Arpit, who is a resident of Udaipur, enjoys editing and writing news related to journalism. He has worked as a Senior Content Producer in several important roles at Bhaskar, Patrika, Pratahkal, Punjab Kesari, and Times. Arpit completed his schooling in Udaipur and Jaipur. He has been working in the media industry for more than 10 years, and his journey is still continuing. ✍️📚
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