Port Blair: The Capital of Andaman and Nicobar Islands
The Andaman and Nicobar Islands, a union territory of India located in the Bay of Bengal, is governed from its most notable city, Port Blair. This article explores the significance of Port Blair as the capital and provides an overview of Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
Location and Governance
Port Blair, situated on the east coast of South Andaman Island, serves as the capital of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, a union territory of India. Established on November 1, 1956, the territory comprises 572 islands, with 37 being inhabited. The total land area is approximately 8249 km2, making it the 28th largest union territory in India. The capital is located at 11.68° North, 92.77° East, a strategic location that ensures proximity to both the Bay of Bengal and the Andaman Sea.
Geography and Geography
The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are situated about 150 km north of Aceh in Indonesia. They are separated from Thailand and Myanmar by the Andaman Sea. The region consists of two main island groups: the Andaman Islands and the Nicobar Islands. These islands are divided by the Ten Degree Channel on the 10°N parallel. To the east lies the Andaman Sea, and to the west lies the Bay of Bengal.
Administration and Government
The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are governed by a Lieutenant Governor, currently Admiral Devendra Kumar Joshi, and an appointed Chief Secretary, Chetan Bhushan Sanghi IAS. The territory has one Lok Sabha constituency and falls under the jurisdiction of the Calcutta High Court, with a Port Blair Bench. The government is divided into three districts: Nicobar District with Car Nicobar as the capital, South Andaman District with Port Blair as the capital, and North and Middle Andaman District with Mayabunder as the capital. The islands also host the Andaman and Nicobar Command, the only multilateral military command unit of the Indian Armed Forces.
Culture and Populations
Port Blair and the rest of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands are home to a diverse population. The main languages spoken are Hindi and English, alongside a range of regional languages such as Bengali, Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, Nicobarese, Kurukh, and Munda. The predominant religion is Hinduism, with a significant Christian minority. The capital city has a population of approximately 380,520 (data from 2012). The region is known for its rich cultural heritage, including its iconic symbols such as the emblem, flower, tree, and motto.
Unique Indigenous Communities
Port Blair and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands are notable for their indigenous populations, particularly the Sentinelese people. This group of people lives in a federally protected area and is known as an uncontacted society. The Sentinelese reside on the North Sentinel Island and are believed to have not reached further than a Paleolithic level of technology. Instances of metalwork have been found on their island, suggesting some controversy regarding their true technological status.
Summary
The Andaman and Nicobar Islands, a union territory of India, derive its governance from its bustling capital, Port Blair. As one of the most strategically located regions in the Bay of Bengal, the islands and its capital play a vital role in India's maritime interests. Understanding the importance of Port Blair and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands provides insight into the unique blend of cultures, history, and natural beauty that defines this region.