ISLAND GROUPS
Published on 31 Jan 2025
India has two major island groups- Andaman Nicobar and Lakshadweep group of islands both located in the Indian Ocean.
Formation of Islands
Andaman Nicobar islands
Tectonic activity: It is a result of volcanic activity following the collision of the Indian plate with the Eurasian plate.
Arakan Yoma extension: Andaman Islands, located in the northern part of the archipelago, represent an extension of the Arakan Yoma Mountain range of Myanmar.
Volcanic activity: Nicobar Islands, located in the southern part of the archipelago, are characterized by a series of volcanic peaks, including Barren Island, the only active volcano in India.
Lakshadweep
Coral reefs: Situated in the Arabian Sea, are a result of coral reef formation over thousands of years.
Atolls: Lakshadweep Islands comprise a group of atolls that have formed around submerged volcanoes, with the coral reefs growing upwards from the volcanic peaks.
Features of India’s islands
Vegetation: Indian islands consist of diverse vegetation like dense forests, mangroves and corals
Example: Andaman and Nicobar Islands are home to dense tropical rainforests, covering over 85% of the land area.
Coral reefs: Rich coral reefs, attract marine enthusiasts for diving and snorkelling.
Example: Scuba diving in Lakshadweep
Topographic diversity: Ranging from high-altitude mountainous peaks to low-lying plains.
Example: Saddle peak of North Andaman and low-lying coral reefs of Lakshadweep
Coastal landscapes: The coastlines of India's islands are a mesmerizing blend of rocky shores, sandy beaches, and mangrove forests.
Example: White sands of Radhanagar Beach of Andaman
Indigenous tribes: Presence of PVTGs and other tribes.
Example: Jarawas and Sentinels of Andaman
Classification of island groups
Significance of island groups
Natural Resources: Surrounding waters of island groups are a valuable resource for fisheries and mineral resources.
Example: Salt, Magnesium and Calcium in Lakshadweep
Strategic location: Islands have military bases and stations that are enhancing India's maritime defence capabilities.
Example: Military bases in Port Blair
Maritime trade route: Located along major maritime trade routes, facilitating trade and commerce in the region.
Example: The Suez Canal and Malacca Strait routes pass near the islands.
Biodiversity hotspot: Rich biodiversity, including endemic species, contributes to global ecological diversity
Example: Endemic mega pod of Nicobar Islands
Tourism and economy: Draws tourists with pristine beaches, coral reefs, and historical sites.
Example: Minicoy Island lighthouse of Lakshadweep
Disaster warning and monitoring: Important for monitoring and early warning systems due to their vulnerability to seismic activities.
Example: Early Tsunami Warning System installed at Rangachang in Andaman and Nicobar Islands.