ANALYSIS: Andaman & Nicobar Seeks UNESCO World Heritage Status for Four Geo-Heritage Sites
Introduction
The administration of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands has proposed four unique natural landmarks for inclusion in the Tentative List of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. This initiative aims to promote geo-heritage tourism, enhance global recognition, and ensure sustainable development of the region’s rich geological and ecological assets.
The proposal is being undertaken in collaboration with the Geological Survey of India (GSI), focusing on scientific documentation, infrastructure development, and responsible tourism planning.
Proposed Sites for UNESCO Recognition
5
1. Barren Island – India’s Only Active Volcano
- Located ~138 km northeast of Port Blair
- Recognised as India’s only active volcano
- Characterised by:
- Volcanic cones
- Ash fields
- Sparse vegetation
- Represents a rare geological phenomenon attracting scientists and adventure tourism
2. Narcondam Island – Biodiversity Hotspot
- A volcanic island with high ecological significance
- Habitat of the endemic Narcondam Hornbill
- The species is:
- Found nowhere else in the world
- Indicator of unique island biodiversity
- Highlights importance of conservation-driven tourism
3. Baratang Mud Volcanoes – Geological Rarity
- Among 11 mud volcanoes in Andaman, 8 located in Baratang
- Formed due to tectonic activity
- Feature:
- Eruption of mud and gases
- Identified as potential:
- Eco-tourism and wellness destination
- Comparable to Jeju Island
4. Shaheed Dweep Natural Rock Bridge
- A natural rock formation attracting thousands of visitors annually
- Represents:
- Coastal geomorphological processes
- Established tourism appeal
- Potential for structured and sustainable tourism expansion
Strategic Vision: Geo-Heritage Tourism
The initiative reflects a broader vision articulated by the administration:
- Promotion of heritage sites reflecting history, biodiversity, and lifestyle
- Transformation into internationally recognised tourism destinations
- Development approach based on:
- Scientific documentation (with GSI)
- Infrastructure improvement
- Responsible tourism planning
Economic and Environmental Implications
Economic Benefits
- Boost to local economy and employment
- Increased tourism inflow and global visibility
- Diversification of tourism into geo-heritage and eco-tourism
Environmental & Conservation Impact
- Strengthening of conservation efforts
- Protection of unique geological and ecological features
- Promotion of sustainable tourism practices
Analytical Significance
This initiative highlights a shift towards integrated development, where:
- Tourism + Conservation + Scientific research are combined
- Focus is on long-term sustainability rather than mass tourism
- It aligns with global trends of geo-heritage recognition and eco-tourism
The inclusion in UNESCO’s Tentative List would serve as a precursor to full World Heritage status, enhancing both prestige and preservation efforts.
NECESSARY STATIC PART
| Aspect | Details (As per Input) |
|---|
| Region | Andaman and Nicobar Islands |
| Proposing Authority | UT Administration (Chief Secretary: Chandra Bhushan Kumar) |
| Collaborating Institution | Geological Survey of India (GSI) |
| Objective | UNESCO World Heritage inclusion, geo-heritage tourism promotion |
| Number of Sites Proposed | 4 |
| Sites Included | Barren Island, Narcondam Island, Baratang Mud Volcanoes, Shaheed Dweep Rock Bridge |
| Key Feature | India’s only active volcano (Barren Island) |
| Focus Areas | Scientific documentation, infrastructure development, sustainable tourism |
| Expected Outcome | Global recognition, economic upliftment, conservation strengthening |
Updated – 10 Aug 2025 News Source: Moneycontrol, BW Travel, ThePrint, NDTV