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5th September 2024 (11 Topics)

Andaman and Nicobar Islands Integrated Development Corporation

Context

The Andaman and Nicobar Islands Integrated Development Corporation (ANIIDCO) is currently under scrutiny due to its role as the project proponent for a massive Rs 72,000 crore infrastructure development project on Great Nicobar Island.

About ANIIDCO

  • ANIIDCO was founded on June 28, 1988, under the Companies Act.
  • Objective: To develop and commercially exploit natural resources for balanced and environmentally friendly development of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
  • Main Activities: Trading petroleum products, Indian-made foreign liquor, and milk; managing tourism resorts; and infrastructure development for tourism and fisheries.
  • Financial Performance: Average annual turnover of ?370 crore and a profit of ?35 crore over the last three financial years.
  • Concerns Regarding ANIIDCO’s Capability
  • Lack of Environmental Policy: ANIIDCO did not have an environment policy or cell when appointed as project proponent in July 2020.
  • Delayed Recruitment: Only began recruiting experts in late 2022, over two years after being appointed.
  • Conflicts of Interest: Several ANIIDCO employees hold civil servant positions related to environmental and tribal welfare issues, suggesting possible conflicts of interest. Despite these concerns, ANIIDCO received environmental clearance in November 2022.

Fact Box: Great Nicobar Project

  • The project, promoted by NITI Aayog, is in Great Nicobar, southernmost island in the Andaman and Nicobar archipelago, a biodiversity hotspot and tectonically active zone.
  • It includes constructing a trans-shipment port, a greenfield airport, a tourism and township development, and a solar and gas-based power plant.
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