Introduction
India’s coastline is not just the mainland. It also includes two prominent groups of islands:
- Andaman & Nicobar Islands (A&N): ~500 islands.
- Lakshadweep Islands: ~30 islands.
These islands are globally recognized for their unique and rich biodiversity:
- A&N: Home to endemic species, coral reefs, mangroves, and tropical rainforests. ~85% of the area is covered with forests.
- Lakshadweep: Entirely made up of coral atolls, lagoons, and fragile marine ecosystems.
Why a separate notification?
- Problem with CRZ (Coastal Regulation Zone):
- The 500-metre buffer from High Tide Line (HTL), as per CRZ, covered a significant portion of these small islands.
- Result: Little space left for the traditional and livelihood activities of the local and tribal communities.
- The ecological challenges of islands (erosion, sea-level rise, vulnerability to storms) were different from those of the mainland.
Therefore, to ensure that the development needs, livelihood security, and conservation of sensitive ecosystems are balanced, the Island Protection Zone Notification, 2011 was issued under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986.
Objectives of the IPZ Notification, 2011
To protect livelihood security of Fishing communities, Tribal groups and Other local communities dependent on coastal resources.
To conserve and protect the coastal and marine ecosystems of the islands — including corals, mangroves, sea grass beds, beaches, and nesting grounds of turtles and birds.
To promote sustainable development based on:
- Scientific planning.
- Resilience against natural hazards such as cyclones, tsunamis, and coastal flooding.
- Addressing challenges posed by global warming and sea-level rise.
Scope
- Applicable to all islands of A&N and Lakshadweep, except the 4 largest islands in A&N:
- North Andaman
- Middle Andaman
- South Andaman
- Great Nicobar
These 4 islands continue to follow CRZ provisions as their size is relatively larger and development patterns more complex.
Significance
- Balances conservation priorities with the social and economic needs of small island communities.
- Aims to preserve biodiversity hotspots, ensure resilience against climate change, and support sustainable livelihoods.