Great Nicobar Desperately Needs Inflow of Tourists to Save its Dwindling Economy

Tarun Karthick

Campbell Bay, 03 January 2023

Great Nicobar without a doubt is one of the most serene and beautiful Island among all of Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The Southernmost landmass of India is home to a population consisting of Shompens, Nicobarese, Ex-Servicemen Settlers and permanent inhabitants from all across India. 

Lately, the Island’s Economy has been dwindling due to several factors. The population of Great Nicobar has been consistently decreasing since after the 2004 Indian Ocean Tsunami.

According to the 2011 Census, Great Nicobar had a population of 8069 individuals. It is difficult to estimate the current population of Great Nicobar, however, the business community estimates that the current population is between 5000 – 6000 individuals. 

Many residents of Great Nicobar are living in Port Blair and other cities and towns of mainland India to earn a living.

Although, the Govt. of India has big plans to develop Great Nicobar as a Transshipment and Tourist Hub, but what the Island immediately needs is an influx of tourists to support its dwindling economy until the big plans are implemented. 

At present, the business of those in the trading, farming and service sector in Great Nicobar is only decreasing because of the population reduction. Manufacturing is not an option as access to markets of mainland India and other parts of the A & N Islands are limited due to transportation issues.

The biggest hurdle in the development of tourism in Great Nicobar is the non-availability of a regular and fast mode of travel. Helicopters and IAF Dornier Service are insufficient even for locals and Govt. Servants.

The administration should look into introducing fixed-wing aircraft service and faster shipping service between Port Blair and Campbell Bay immediately to give a thrust to the dwindling economy of the Island.