Great Nicobar Project – PAC Seeks Detailed Report Amid Fresh Environmental Concerns
Great Nicobar Project – The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) has sought further information from the Union Home Ministry regarding the Great Nicobar Project, reflecting growing attention on environmental protection, infrastructure planning, and administrative oversight.
The Parliamentary Public Accounts Committee (PAC), chaired by Congress MP KC Venugopal, on Wednesday requested a detailed report from Union Home Secretary Govind Mohan regarding the controversial Great Nicobar Project. The matter was raised during a committee meeting despite not being included in the official agenda. According to sources, Venugopal said the issue deserved the committee’s attention because of the concerns being expressed over its possible environmental and social impact.
Committee Requests Future Briefing
The discussion took place while officials from the Ministry of Home Affairs were presenting observations related to the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) audit on the establishment and functioning of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands Institute of Medical Sciences (ANIIMS). During the meeting, Venugopal clarified that he was not expecting an immediate response from the Home Secretary. Instead, he informed officials that the committee would like to receive a comprehensive report at a later stage regarding developments linked to the Great Nicobar Project in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
Objection Raised Over Agenda
Sources said BJP MP Anurag Thakur questioned the decision to introduce the subject during the meeting, arguing that discussions should remain limited to the scheduled agenda. However, Venugopal maintained that the committee was only taking note of the issue and requesting additional information for future consideration, rather than seeking an instant explanation from ministry officials.
Environmental and Tribal Concerns Highlighted
During the discussion, Venugopal reportedly expressed concern about the large-scale environmental impact associated with the project. He referred to estimates suggesting that nearly 1.5 crore trees could be affected and also raised the issue of displacement faced by indigenous tribal communities. According to sources, he questioned whether commercial development was being prioritised over ecological conservation and local interests.
Venugopal is also understood to have stated that while the long-pending expansion of the naval base INS Baaz had not progressed, commercial development initiatives in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands were moving ahead at a much faster pace. He reportedly argued that the government’s priorities required closer examination.
Congress Continues to Oppose the Project
The Congress party has consistently criticised the Great Nicobar Project, describing it as environmentally sensitive. Following his recent visit to the islands, Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi questioned the government’s position that the project is primarily driven by strategic and defence objectives. He also alleged that the proposed transshipment port and related commercial developments could primarily benefit private business interests while affecting ecologically important areas.
Separately, Congress leader Jairam Ramesh recently wrote to Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal seeking greater transparency over the proposed international container transshipment port planned at Galathea Bay in Great Nicobar Island. In his communication, he requested clarification on the ownership structure, competition safeguards, and the extent of financial support expected from the government.
ANIIMS Delay Also Comes Under Review
Apart from the Great Nicobar Project, the committee also reviewed issues related to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands Institute of Medical Sciences. Sources indicated that Venugopal expressed concern over financial irregularities and the reported 12-year delay in completing the institute’s construction.
The PAC chairman also took note of the absence of the Chief Secretary of the Andaman and Nicobar Administration during the meeting. Speaking to reporters afterwards, he confirmed that the official had been asked to provide an explanation for not attending the committee proceedings.
Home Ministry Explains Administrative Role
According to sources, officials from the Ministry of Home Affairs informed the committee that the ministry’s role concerning ANIIMS is limited to monitoring the institution. They clarified that the institute is administered by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, which is responsible for its overall functioning and management.