India is home to two major groups of islands located in different seas: the Bay of Bengal and the Arabian Sea. Each group has distinct geographical features and ecological significance.
Islands of the Bay of Bengal
Geographical Location:
- Latitude: 6°N to 14°N
- Longitude: 92°E to 94°E
Principal Groups:
- Andaman Islands: Located in the northern part of the Bay of Bengal.
- Nicobar Islands: Situated in the southern part of the Bay of Bengal.
- Separation: The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are separated by the Ten Degree Channel.
Key Features:
- Submarine Mountains: These islands are believed to be an elevated portion of submarine mountains, although some smaller islands have volcanic origins.
- Volcanic Activity: Barren Island, located in the Nicobar Islands, is the only active volcano in India.
- Coral Deposits: Many of these islands have coral deposits and beautiful beaches.
- Climate and Vegetation: The islands receive convectional rainfall and have an equatorial type of vegetation.
Notable Islands:
- Andaman Islands:
- North Sentinel Island: Known for its indigenous and isolated Sentinelese tribe.
- Havelock Island: Famous for its pristine beaches and coral reefs.
- Nicobar Islands:
- Car Nicobar: Known for its cultural heritage and traditional crafts.
- Great Nicobar Island: Home to a rich biodiversity and the Great Nicobar Biosphere Reserve.
Important Archipelagos:
- Ritchie’s Archipelago: Located in the northern part of the Andaman Islands.
- Labyrinth Islands: Comprising various smaller islands and islets.
Islands of the Arabian Sea
Geographical Location:
- Latitude: 8°N to 12°N
- Longitude: 71°E to 74°E
- Distance from Kerala Coast: Approximately 280 km to 480 km
Principal Groups:
- Lakshadweep: The main group of islands in the Arabian Sea.
- Minicoy: The largest island in this group.
Key Features:
- Coral Deposits: The islands are built predominantly from coral deposits.
- Storm Beaches: Some islands have storm beaches consisting of unconsolidated pebbles, shingles, cobbles, and boulders on the eastern seaboard.
Notable Islands:
Physiography of India
- Lakshadweep:
- Kavaratti: The administrative capital and known for its lagoons and coral reefs.
- Agatti: Known for its beautiful beaches and lagoons.
- Bangaram: Famous for its scenic beauty and turquoise waters.
- Minicoy: 453 sq. km, making it the largest island in the Lakshadweep group.
Geographical Divisions:
- North of the Ten Degree Channel: Includes Amini Island.
- South of the Ten Degree Channel: Includes Cannanore Island.
