In a significant step toward renewable energy expansion, companies have been invited to participate in the bidding process for a 5 MW solar power project integrated with a battery energy storage system of up to 4 MW/12 MWh in Great Nicobar Island. This development forms a part of the wider Holistic Development Plan for the island, as initiated by NTPC Green Energy Limited, a subsidiary of NTPC Limited. According to internal documents reviewed, the project is intended to reinforce sustainable infrastructure in the remote island region.
Solar Energy Expansion Marks a Key Milestone in Nicobar’s Growth Plan
The expression of interest for the solar project was formally announced on March 11, with a deadline set for March 30 for all inquiries and submissions. While NTPC has yet to confirm the final location of the installation, it has acknowledged that land allocation remains pending. Despite the uncertainty surrounding the project’s exact siting, documents suggest it is part of a broader development blueprint intended to bring strategic and commercial upgrades to Great Nicobar.
Anthropologists Raise Red Flags on Proximity to Tribal Settlements
In a development raising social and environmental concerns, a 2022 letter from a group of anthropologists cautioned that the proposed solar plant could lie near settlements inhabited by the Shompen tribal community. Although no exact coordinates were cited in the letter, it warned that parts of the solar infrastructure may fall within close proximity estimated at one to two kilometers of areas where the southern group of Shompens reside, such as Kokeon, Re-pakou, and Buij-yae, based on the guidelines outlined in the 2015 Shompen Policy.
Environmental Map Highlights Tribal Habitat Close to Project Site
Further examination of environmental clearance documents, as referenced in the letter submitted to the Ministry of Environment, reveals a map indicating that potential project sites lie near important tribal settlements. These locations, including Buij-yae and Kokeon, have been identified as significant areas of residence and foraging for the Shompen people. The letter was signed by experts associated with the Indian Anthropological Association, emphasizing the cultural and ecological sensitivity of the region.
Biodiversity Concerns Heighten Due to Ecological Fragility of Nicobar
The Nicobar Islands, which are part of the globally recognized Sundaland Biodiversity Hotspot, span the western section of the Indonesian archipelago. This hotspot is characterized by rich ecosystems and houses a significant portion of the world’s flora and fauna. Given this status, environmentalists have expressed worries that the large-scale infrastructure initiatives, including the solar power facility, may disrupt fragile ecosystems and adversely impact the Shompen and Nicobarese communities, both classified as particularly vulnerable tribal groups.
Local Governance Voices Mixed Views on Mega Development Project
A recent report dated March 8 revealed that two of the three local gram panchayats in the project-affected areas have given conditional consent to the formation of the ‘Great Nicobar Island Development Area.’ However, local leaders stressed that the infrastructure being developed must provide tangible benefits to island residents. Additionally, they emphasized the need for adequate compensation and fair treatment in the land acquisition and development process.
Tribal Council Opposes Certain Land Diversions Within the Project
Despite partial local support, the Tribal Council representing both Little and Great Nicobar has voiced objections regarding the allocation of certain areas designated for tribal use. The Council has raised issues over land that is currently reserved for indigenous populations, expressing concern that these areas are being repurposed for industrial and infrastructural use without proper consultation or approval from tribal stakeholders.
Government Maintains No Official Objections Have Been Reported
In an official response presented in Parliament on April 12, the Ministry of Tribal Affairs stated that it had not received any formal objections related to the Great Nicobar development from the Tribal Council. Tribal Affairs Minister Jual Oram clarified that the ministry “has not got any information on any kind of objection from the public.” This statement stands in contrast to the concerns voiced at the local level, underlining the gap between grassroots feedback and federal acknowledgment.