The Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology and Earth Sciences, Dr Jitendra Singh, underscored the strategic importance of the Andaman & Nicobar Islands’ biodiversity for India’s environmental and economic security during his visit to the Andaman & Nicobar Regional Centre of the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) at Sri Vijaya Puram on January 19, 2026.
He described the islands as a “living laboratory of biodiversity”, emphasizing that conservation, scientific research, and sustainable livelihoods must progress together to strengthen climate resilience and support India’s long-term development goals.
Andaman & Nicobar: A Living Laboratory of Biodiversity
Addressing scientists and officials, Dr Jitendra Singh highlighted that the unique ecosystems of the Andaman & Nicobar Islands hold immense value for:
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Biodiversity conservation
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Climate resilience strategies
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Sustainable development
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Ocean-based economic growth
He stressed that institutions like ZSI play a critical role in generating credible scientific data, which directly informs national policy on biodiversity protection and environmental governance.
ZSI’s Five Decades of Scientific Contribution
Established in 1977, the Andaman & Nicobar Regional Centre of ZSI has completed nearly five decades of dedicated research service. Over the years, it has emerged as a nodal institution for tropical island biodiversity research.
Key contributions include:
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Nearly 90 research programmes across multiple faunal groups
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Publication of 85 books
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More than 850 research papers in national and international journals
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Extensive work in taxonomy, molecular systematics, DNA barcoding, and biodiversity assessment
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Capacity building for young researchers and conservation professionals
These efforts have significantly strengthened India’s biodiversity knowledge base.
Discoveries of Global Significance
Scientists at the Centre have made globally important discoveries, including:
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Reporting over 20 species new to science, such as the Narcondam Tree Shrew
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Documenting nearly 900 new faunal records from the Andaman & Nicobar Islands, India, and Southeast Asia
These findings underscore the international ecological significance of the region.
ZSI Museum: Bridging Science and Public Awareness
During his visit, the Minister toured the ZSI Museum, a prominent educational and tourist destination in the islands.
The museum houses:
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Around 3,500 specimens
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Representing 22 faunal groups
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Exhibits on endemic, endangered, and threatened species
With an annual footfall of 75,000 to 1,00,000 visitors, including students, researchers, and tourists, the museum plays a vital role in public outreach, awareness generation, and environmental education.
Strengthening Marine Science and the Blue Economy
The Minister was also briefed on ZSI’s role as the nodal centre for India’s first National Coral Reef Research Institute (NCRRI). He noted that such specialized institutions are essential for:
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Protecting fragile marine ecosystems
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Strengthening coral reef research
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Supporting evidence-based marine governance
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Advancing India’s Blue Economy vision
He emphasized that robust scientific institutions are central to achieving India’s environmental goals in a sustainable manner.
Call for Stronger Integration of Science and Policy
Interacting with scientists and staff, Dr Jitendra Singh called for greater integration between:
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Scientific research
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Public policy
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Conservation planning
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Community awareness
He appreciated the work being carried out by the ZSI team and described the visit as an “extremely informative and educative experience,” noting that curated zoological collections not only advance scientific understanding but also inspire public consciousness about India’s irreplaceable natural heritage.
Conclusion
Dr Jitendra Singh’s visit to the Andaman & Nicobar ZSI centre highlights the critical role of scientific institutions in safeguarding biodiversity, strengthening climate resilience, and supporting sustainable economic growth. By reinforcing research capacity and linking science with policy, institutions like ZSI remain central to India’s environmental future and Blue Economy ambitions.
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Source: PIB
