Union Home and Cooperation Minister Amit Shah on 03 January 2026 inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for multiple development projects worth ₹373 crore of the Andaman and Nicobar Union Territory Government at Sri Vijaya Puram. The event marked a significant milestone in the holistic development of the islands, blending infrastructure growth with heritage preservation, environmental protection, and strategic strengthening.
Tribute to Freedom Fighters at Cellular Jail
Addressing the gathering, Amit Shah recalled the immense sacrifices made by India’s freedom fighters at the Cellular Jail, where countless patriots endured imprisonment, torture, and martyrdom. He said the Veer Savarkar memorial and the eternal flame at the Cellular Jail convey a powerful message to the world about India’s struggle, sacrifice, and resolve for independence.
He highlighted that Narendra Modi honoured Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose by renaming islands of the archipelago as Shaheed and Swaraj, reaffirming that Andaman and Nicobar is a sacred pilgrimage site for every Indian.
₹373 Crore Development Push for the Islands
Amit Shah stated that nine major projects were inaugurated and foundation stones for two projects were laid in a single day, reflecting the Modi government’s commitment to island development. Key projects include:
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Integrated Command and Control Centre – ₹229 crore
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Phase-I of District Hospital – ₹33 crore
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Forensic Science Laboratory
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Six additional development schemes – ₹50 crore
He described these initiatives as the beginning of a new chapter in infrastructure, governance, healthcare, and security for the islands.
From “Burden” to Contributor to National Growth
The Union Home Minister remarked that previous governments viewed Andaman and Nicobar as a burden on the exchequer, whereas under the Modi government, the islands are set to contribute actively to the national treasury. He emphasised that Andaman and Nicobar are emerging as a centre of sovereignty, maritime power, and economic activity, playing a vital role in India’s strategic outlook.
Great Nicobar Project and Strategic Importance
Highlighting future plans, Amit Shah said the Great Nicobar project will transform the region into a global cargo hub, major tourism centre, and a critical pillar of India’s strategic security. He added that within a decade of its completion, the islands are expected to become among the world’s most visited tourist destinations.
Tourism, Blue Economy and Scuba Diving Hub
The Home Minister noted that the Modi government is developing Andaman and Nicobar as an international scuba diving and adventure water sports destination, upgrading facilities as per ISO standards. He underlined the vast potential of the blue economy, fisheries, clean energy, MSMEs, agriculture, and eco-tourism across the islands.
Environment Protection and Swachh Bharat Success
Amit Shah stressed that development is being carried out while safeguarding the fragile ecosystem. Under the ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ initiative, 2.4 million trees have been planted across the islands. He also hailed the Sri Vijaya Puram Municipal Council for achieving 98% household waste collection, calling it a historic success of the Swachh Bharat Mission.
Exhibition on New Criminal Laws
The Union Home Minister also inaugurated an exhibition on the three new criminal laws, urging lawyers, students, and citizens—especially women—to visit and understand the transformative changes being introduced in the criminal justice system, including technology-backed legal reforms.
Vision of Developed and Self-Reliant India
Referring to India’s economic rise from the 11th to the 4th largest economy, Amit Shah said the nation is on track to become the 3rd largest economy in the coming years. He reiterated Prime Minister Modi’s resolve that by the centenary of Independence, India will be number one in every field, stressing the importance of Aatmanirbhar Bharat and the use of indigenous products.
Conclusion
The inauguration of ₹373-crore development projects in Andaman and Nicobar reflects the Modi government’s integrated vision of development with heritage, growth with sustainability, and security with prosperity. As the islands evolve into a hub of tourism, maritime power, and strategic importance, they stand as a living symbol of India’s freedom struggle and its aspirations for a developed, self-reliant future.
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Source: PIB
