Rahul Gandhi scuba dives to target Modi govt, calls for ecological balance in Andamans amid Great Nicobar row

Sharing photographs from his deep-sea diving experience on Facebook, Gandhi described the islands as one of India's most valuable natural treasures and called for sustainable development.

Calls for sustainable tourism

In his post, Gandhi said the Andaman and Nicobar Islands could emerge as a globally renowned coastal tourism destination if environmental concerns remain at the forefront of development planning.

"The Andaman and Nicobar islands have the potential to become the world's most beautiful coastal tourist hub – as long as we prioritise ecological balance and sustainable development.

"I want more Indians to visit these stunning islands and witness with their own eyes the incredible treasures that India has," he wrote.

Targets Centre over Great Nicobar Project

In a separate post on X, Gandhi used the opportunity to criticise the Narendra Modi-led government over the proposed Great Nicobar Project, one of India's largest infrastructure initiatives.

Questioning the government's rationale for the project, Gandhi alleged that its stated strategic objectives did not align with the facts on the ground.

"The Modi government and BJP tells you Great Nicobar Project is about defence. It is not. Expand INS Baaz – we will back the government fully," he wrote.

Questions defence and port arguments

The Congress leader claimed that the Indian Navy's proposal to expand INS Baaz, India's southernmost military air station located in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, has remained pending for years.

"The Navy has been asking for expansion for five years – it has been ignored," Gandhi said.

He also questioned the government's claim that the project is necessary for a major transshipment port.

"They tell you it is about a transhipment port. It is not. India is already building one in Kerala, which is on the mainland," he added.

What is the Great Nicobar Project?

The Great Nicobar Project is a multi-billion-rupee infrastructure plan that includes an international transshipment port at Galathea Bay, a greenfield airport, a township and supporting infrastructure on Great Nicobar Island.

Supporters argue that the project will strengthen India's strategic presence near the Malacca Strait, boost trade and create economic opportunities.

Critics, however, have raised concerns over its environmental impact, including the loss of tropical forests, threats to marine biodiversity and potential disruption to indigenous communities.

The project has emerged as a key flashpoint between the government and opposition over the balance between development, national security and environmental conservation.

(Photos: Rahul Gandhi/Facebook)